Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to NIU?

How do I find out which of my credits from other universities and colleges have been accepted by NIU?

Do I need to submit all my transcripts, even if I only took a few classes at another school?

I heard there is a required orientation for all students.  If I intend to take classes only at the Regional Centers of partner community colleges, do I have to attend orientation?

I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree at NIU. Do I qualify for financial aid?

I am pursuing a master’s degree at NIU. Do I qualify for financial aid?

I may need special accommodation for a disability. Where can I find out about services available?

What if I want to take a professional development program through NIU?  Do I have to submit an application or transcripts? 

What courses should I register for?

What if I need to conduct research at the library?  Do I have to drive to DeKalb even though my classes are at an NIU Regional Center or partnership school?

May I use my veteran benefits at NIU?

Q: How do I apply to NIU?

A: You may apply online to any of our undergraduate or graduate programs. There is a non-refundable $40 application fee and official transcripts from all prior colleges or universities are required as part of your application process. For more information on undergraduate or transfer applicants, go to www.niu.edu/admissions. To apply for graduate studies, go to www.grad.niu.edu/grad/apply/graduate.shtml

Q: How do I find out which of my credits from other universities and colleges have been accepted by NIU?

A: Transfer and off-campus students will be able to view an official credit evaluation on MyNIU shortly after confirming enrollment.

Q: Do I need to submit all my transcripts, even if I only took a few classes at another school?

A: Yes. We require that you submit official transcripts from all community colleges and public or private universities. Who knows? You may be granted additional transfer credit you didn’t realize you could earn.

Q: I heard there is a required orientation for all students. If I intend to take classes only at the Regional Centers of partner community colleges, do I have to attend orientation?

A: No; if you are not intending to come to the DeKalb Campus for classes, your advisor can waive the orientation requirement.

Q: I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree at NIU.  Do I qualify for financial aid?

A: You might qualify for financial aid. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form used by both the federal and state financial aid programs which include loans to pay for college. There are important deadlines for filing (March 1 is the priority deadline, but applications are accepted after that date). Check www.fafsa.ed.gov for the form and the deadlines. The FAFSA School Code for NIU is 001737.

Q: I am pursuing a master’s degree at NIU.  Do I qualify for financial aid?

A: Even though you are not eligible for Pell or Map grants, you may qualify for some student loans or scholarships. Full-time students may be eligible for Graduate Assistantships. Scholarship information is available at www.scholarships.niu.edu. A common deadline for scholarships is January 15.

Q: I may need special accommodation for a disability.  Where can I find out about services available?

A: NIU provides resources for students with a variety of disabilities. You should submit documentation and request services as soon as possible. See www.niu.edu/caar for additional information.

Q: What if I want to take a professional development program through NIU?  Do I have to submit an application or transcripts?

A: No. If you are not pursuing a degree, you do not have to formally apply to NIU. 

Q: What courses should I register for?

A: You will be assigned an academic advisor once you are admitted to NIU. Your advisor is the most important contact for information about course requirements. Regular contact is the best way to ensure you are on the right pathway to your academic goal.

Q: What if I need to conduct research at one of NIU’s libraries?

A: NIU’s libraries' resources are available to our off-campus students via online and through inter-library loan.

Q: May I use my veteran benefits at NIU?

A: Yes. Contact the Military Student Services office by phone at 815-753-0691 or by email at veteransassistance@niu.edu for assistance.