International Student Arrival Information
Preparing to depart!
Here you'll find all the information you need as you plan to depart and begin your journey to North Central College's campus! We know that leaving home and starting college is a big deal, especially if NCC is far from home, so we've worked to make things a little easier for you by compiling all the information you need to prepare for arrival and International Student Orientation. As always, if you have questions, please email the International Admission Team!
Chat with a Global Cardinal!
International Engagement Opportunities
Virtual Pre-Arrival Session
Mark your calendars and plan to attend a Virtual Pre-Arrival Session for Fall 2025 on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 from 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Central Time! This is an informative, but fun event that is designed to make your arrival to NCC smooth and stress free. During this session we will discuss arrival, orientation, and Welcome Week (fall semester only). You’ll also have a chance to interact with current international students, so have your questions ready! Committed students will receive an email with instructions to join.
Arrival Dates
Fall 2025
The Center for Global Education will notify all students if there are any changes to the arrival schedule. Travel safely!
Arrival Day - Tuesday, August 12, 2025
*Students must self-transport to campus on the day they arrive.
Mandatory International Student Orientation: August 13 - August 15, 2025
* International Student Orientation will be conducted in-person and attendance is required!
Classes Begin: Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Spring 2026
The Center for Global Education will notify all students if there are any changes to the arrival schedule. Travel safely!
Arrival Day - Friday, January 2, 2026
*Students must self-transport to campus on the day they arrive.
Mandatory International Student Orientation: January 5, 2026
* International Student Orientation will be conducted in-person and attendance is required!
Classes Begin: Monday, January 5, 2025 AFTER International Student Orientation
Paying Tuition
Consider how you plan to pay your first term tuition. Your electronic invoice will be available to you in your Merlin account; as part of our efforts to be environmentally friendly, North Central does not issue paper invoices. North Central has partnered with flywire to offer convenient international payment options for students with non-U.S. bank accounts.
F1 & J1 Student Visas
As an admitted international student, you will likely be studying while in F1 status (undergraduate, degree-seeking students or ELI students) or J-1 status (exchange students). Please work with your admission counselor to submit the documents required to issue your Form I-20 (F1 students) or DS-2019 (J-1 students). Once we receive your documentation, your Form I-20 or DS-2019 will be sent to you with tips for paying your SEVIS fee and applying for your visa.