Frequently Asked Questions

While most of our students come from the Pacific Northwest, many come from all over the United States and from around the world. We have students from over 40 different countries at NU.

International students are limited both in where they may work, and how much they may work, by governmental regulations. An F-1 student may work only twenty (20) hours per week and may work only on campus. Spouses, or family members of the F-1 student may not work. Additional hours of work are permitted during break periods, but extra work hours may or may not be available. Hourly wages for on-campus work will not provide sufficient funds to support education and thus are not permitted to be counted in the financial statement for visa purposes.

Graduate students and Junior/Senior level undergraduate F-1 visa students are eligible for off campus work authorization called CPT. There are regulations on this and more information can be found by contacting international@northwestu.edu.

Yes! Federal and state laws require that international students maintain adequate health insurance while attending Northwest University. One day of hospitalization can cost thousands of dollars. We offer students a very comprehensive insurance policy giving students access to outstanding medical facilities and provides protection against the substantial costs of health care in the U.S.

To apply for insurance waiver, students will need to contact international@northwestu.edu to inquire about the proper requirements and process.

International students can apply for scholarships at NU, just like domestic students. F-1 visa students are not eligible for US government or State government aid programs. A common one that F-1 visa holders are ineligible for is FAFSA.

View NU scholarships. If you have a question about a specific scholarship, email international@northwestu.edu.

Undergraduate and CELE single students under 24 years of age live in the residence halls or student apartments located on campus. Students who are 25 years and older or married students have access to apartments suitable for couples or families depending on availability. After a period of residence at Northwest University, mature students may apply to live in on-campus apartments.

There is a bus stop within walking distance of campus. This bus goes to the two major cities, Bellevue and Seattle, along with other locations. Kirkland is a walkable city. Food, Restaurants and shopping are all within a short distance of campus.

If a student desires to have a car, the student will need to either have an international driver’s license or take the Washington State licensing exam. All drivers are required by law to have liability insurance to operate a vehicle in the United States.