In light of the Chinese government’s recent warning about the risks of studying in the United States, we want to reassure our Chinese students and scholars that they are critical to Northwestern University’s mission, and we are committed to assisting them in the visa process. To date, we have seen no visas denied for Chinese students and scholars who are coming to Northwestern, and we will continue to make efforts to help them in the process if they experience problems.
Northwestern is committed to being an inclusive and welcoming place for all international students. We cannot fulfill our mission to produce the highest caliber of research and solve problems of global significance without attracting the best talent in the world. To meet those goals, we envision an increase in the number of Chinese and international students and scholars at Northwestern in the years to come.
In mid-June, the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS, formerly the International Office) will be represented in China — in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou — for pre-departure orientations. We look forward to welcoming the next group of Chinese students to Northwestern in September as they begin the next step of their academic journey.
OISS and individual schools and programs will continue to help make our Chinese students feel welcome in an open and collaborative atmosphere. OISS helps simplify and streamline the requirements international students have to meet in order to facilitate realizing their academic goals. OISS also works with students if there are issues in the visa application process, and can assist Chinese and other international students when problems arise.
At Northwestern, knowledge knows no borders, and everyone at the University benefits from the presence of talented international students, faculty and staff. We recognize that these individuals play a powerful role in shaping our community, and we value them deeply.
Jonathan Holloway
Provost and Professor