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Application Steps

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Step 1: Start Your Application in GLObal Gateway

Applications open in early November each year. Start your application right away. Note: You are only permitted to apply to one program per term.

GLObal Gateway

Step 2: Complete Time-Sensitive Requirements

Apply for or Renew your Passport

Apply for or Renew your Passport

You will need to provide proof of a valid passport or proof of passport application/renewal as part of the Northwestern application process. The processing time for passport applications is up to 12 weeks. For more information, visit the passports page.

Complete Interviews

Complete Interviews

Most programs do not have an interview requirement. Only Exchanges and GESI require an interview as part of the application. Learn more about interview requirements and refer to your program brochure to see if this applies to you. Request an appointment early; calendars fill up quickly.

 

Step 3: Complete Other Application Requirements

In addition to meeting with academic advisers, within the application you will also need to:

  • Write a personal statement* 
    • *Students applying to most affiliated programs are not required to write a personal statement. Personal statements are only required for Northwestern programs, Exchange programs, and Consortium programs (CASA, BCSP). Personal Statement prompts will be clearly listed in your application if this requirement applies to your program.
  • Complete program-specific requirements
  • Upload your unofficial transcript
  • Review and sign the student agreement

Details on all of these requirements can be found in GLObal Gateway. Plan to complete all sections of the application by the deadline for competitive consideration for your selected program.

Step 4: Remember Your Deadline

For all programs, the Northwestern study abroad application must be completed by the appropriate deadline. Note that all deadlines fall 1-2 terms before the term when your study abroad program begins. For example, you must apply by November 10 (Fall Quarter) of your junior year to go abroad in Spring Quarter of your junior year, or by February 10 (Winter Quarter) of your sophomore year to go abroad in Fall Quarter of your junior year.

General Deadlines

Term Date

Fall, Fall-Winter, & Full-Year Programs

February 10*
Summer Programs February 10
Winter Programs June 10
Winter-Spring Programs September 10
Spring Programs November 10

*Oxford University and Japan Study at Waseda University have a deadline of December 15th for all terms

*King's College London has a deadline of December 15th for fall and full year

Note: Exchanges and affiliated programs require a separate program application in addition to the Northwestern study abroad application, and some of these program applications have early deadlines. Refer to the program page to confirm the application deadline for your program.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

You're one step closer to studying abroad! You can expect a decision within six weeks. In the meantime, there are several steps you should take to prepare for your study abroad adventure.