Application

Thank you for your interest in Northern Illinois University.

NIU Admissions strongly encourages all applicants to use the Online application as the preferred, best method to apply to NIU.

There are three ways to apply:

1. Online  
2. View and Print a Paper Application 
3. Request a Paper Application: If you are unable to view and print the paper application and would like to receive one by mail, contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@niu.edu or call (815) 753-0446 (toll free (800) 892-3050).

Complete transfer applications are those files which contain: 

• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
• Completed application for undergraduate admission
• $30 application fee
• Transfer Students with fewer than 24 completed transfer hours at the time of application must also submit:
  • Official high school transcripts 
  • Official ACT or SAT scores

Note: Current application processing time for complete applications is estimated to require a minimum of three to four weeks from receipt of all required documents. Processing times may vary during peak processing periods.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to use the Online application as the preferred, best method to apply to NIU.

Applicants will be considered for admission to the university if they meet the requirements specified under any of the following headings:

• Freshmen
• Transfer Students
• Illinois Public Community College Graduates
• International Students
• Postbaccalaureate Students  
• Nongraduated Secondary School Students
• Re-entering Students
• Visiting Students

For more information, see the Undergraduate Catalog.