Steps post-acceptance: international student

You’re in! Congratulations! Now let’s get you ready for NAU. This checklist walks you through everything from confirming your enrollment and getting your visa, to moving in and starting classes. We’ll help you every step of the way.

You're officially an NAU Lumberjack! Here's what's next

We’re so excited to welcome you to NAU. Follow these steps to get everything in place for a smooth start to your new adventure in Arizona.

1.  Confirm your enrollment

Accept your offer and pay your enrollment fee to secure your place at NAU. This step also opens access to housing. Allow one business day for payment processing before applying for a room.

2. Know key arrival dates (Fall 2025)

Mark your calendar with these important dates for the Fall 2025 semester:

  • August 18: move-in day
  • August 19: last day to arrive at NAU
  • August 20–22: orientation
  • August 25: classes begin

3. Set up your student account

Your LOUIE account connects you to everything: classes, housing, grades, and more. Look for your user ID in your confirmation email, then follow instructions to activate your account and enable two-step verification. Need help? Contact NAU IT Services.

4. Complete international orientation (online)

This is a required online session that is packed with useful info, from visa guidance to student life. Access international orientation using your NAU login and email your completion certificate to iorientation@nau.edu by July 15. Complete international orientation early to enter a raffle for a free NAU t-shirt!

5. Get your visa document

Your I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) is required to apply for your visa. Upload financial proof, English test scores, and transcripts to receive it. F-1 students can download their I-20 via iNAU. J-1 students will get their DS-2019 from their home institution.

6. Apply for your US visa

We recommend starting this process as soon as possible. To apply for your US visa, be sure to:

  • Complete Form DS-160.
  • Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
  • Schedule a visa interview at a US 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. You'll want to be sure to:

  • Submit your application and $100 housing fee.
  • Confirm your space with a $175 rent confirmation payment.
  • Choose a meal plan option (required for first-year undergraduates; optional for others).

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

8. Register for classes

After your visa is approved, you can register for classes!

Undergraduate students should contact their academic advisor for more information.

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

To avoid delays, make sure you:

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

10. Complete your international student check-in

This process is required for all new international students. Follow these steps to complete the international student check-in process:

  1. Before you arrive in the US, upload copies of your passport, visa, and I-20 or DS-2019 to iNAU.
  2. After you arrive on camps, upload your I-94, US address, phone number, and Statement of Understanding.
  3. Visit the Center for International Education in person or attend your orientation check-in session.

You must complete all check-in steps to activate your SEVIS record, which is essential for maintaining your visa status.

We're here to help!

Forgot your password?

Visit the NAU Password Change application, enter your user ID, and follow the instructions.

Trouble logging into LOUIE?

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

Free airport shuttle service

We offer a free shuttle from Flagstaff Pulliam Airport to campus on August 18 and 19. Email your flight details to iorientation@nau.edu to reserve a spot. Note: This service is not available from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport!

Have questions? Let's chat!

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.