Steps post-acceptance: international student

As an international student, there are a few important steps to take before you arrive. From confirming your spot and getting your visa to finding housing and signing up for classes, we’ll guide you through everything you need to do.

Congratulations, Lumberjack! Welcome to NAU

Once you’re accepted to NAU, follow these steps to complete your admissions process:

1.  Confirm your enrollment

Once you’ve been admitted, make sure to accept your offer and pay your enrollment fee. This secures your spot and allows you to apply for housing. Please allow one business day for payment processing before applying for housing.

2. Understand these important arrival dates (Fall 2025)

  • Move-In: Monday, August 18
  • Latest Arrival: Tuesday, August 19
  • Orientation: August 20–22
  • Classes Begin: Monday, August 25

Arrive early to settle in and attend orientation.

3. Activate your LOUIE account

Your LOUIE account gives you access to essential NAU services including email, class registration, housing, and more.

  • User ID and password are sent via email after admission.
  • Two-step verification is required for account security.

If you need help, contact NAU IT Services.

4. Complete online orientation

This is required for all international students.

  • Use your NAU login credentials to access the orientation.
  • Topics include visa info, campus life, and more.
  • Submit your completion certificate by July 15 to iorientation@nau.edu.

Complete this step early to be entered in a raffle for a free t-shirt!

5. Obtain your I-20 or DS-2019

This document is needed for your visa application.

  • Submit proof of finances, English proficiency, and transcripts.
  • F-1 students can download their I-20 through iNAU.
  • J-1 students will receive their DS-2019 from their home institution.

6. Apply for your Visa

Start this process as soon as possible.

  • Complete Form DS-160.
  • Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
  • Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
  • If you are a transfer student, submit the SEVIS Transfer-In Form.

7. Apply for housing

On-campus housing fills quickly, so apply early.

  • Submit the housing application and $100 fee.
  • Confirm your space with a $175 rent confirmation payment.
  • Meal plans are required for first-year undergraduates; optional for others.

Consider the International House for a globally-focused living experience!

8. Enroll in classes

You can begin enrolling after your visa is approved.

  • Undergraduate students should contact their academic advisor.
  • Graduate students should follow instructions from their academic program.

Note: A one-time $325 international enrollment fee applies to F-1 degree-seeking students.

9. Submit required documents

Timely submission is important to avoid enrollment delays.

  • Submit your JacksCard photo online.
  • Submit MMR immunization records to Campus Health.
  • Upload a scan of your visa to iNAU.

10. Follow this check-in process

This process is required for all new international students.

  1. Pre-Arrival: Upload your passport, visa, and I-20 or DS-2019 to iNAU.
  2. Post-Arrival: Upload your I-94, U.S. address, phone number, and Statement of Understanding.
  3. In-Person Check-In: Visit CIE or attend your orientation check-in session.

You must complete all check-in steps to activate your SEVIS record.

Need help?

Forgot your password?

Visit the NAU Password Change application and enter the user ID from your confirmation email. You’ll be prompted to answer a security question to retrieve or reset your password.

Need help accessing LOUIE?

Contact the Student Technology Center at ask-stc@nau.edu or call 928-523-3335 for assistance.

Airport shuttle service

Free airport shuttle from Flagstaff Pulliam Airport to NAU is available on August 18 and 19.

  • Reserve your space by emailing your flight details to iorientation@nau.edu.
  • This service is not available from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.

Speak with an admissions advisor

Our International Student and Scholar Services team is here to support you every step of the way.
Email us at isss@nau.edu or call 928-523-1520.

Two students smiling at their graduation ceremony.

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