Financial Aid and Scholarship Office

We're your partners in making a quality education affordable and within reach.

The Financial Aid and Scholarship Office helps students and families navigate the financial aid process, maximize available funding and create a plan that works for your family. From application through graduation, we're here to help you invest in your future with confidence.

Updates and Reminders

Merit Scholarship Amounts Increased for Fall 2026 Freshmen

Merit scholarship amounts have increased for students admitted for Fall 2026 and beyond. Freshmen with a GPA of 3.25 or higher will receive $1,000 more per year in renewable scholarship funding. View scholarship amounts

New Honors Transfer Scholarships

Transfer students from College of DuPage, College of Lake County, Elgin Community College, Harper College or McHenry County College can earn a $1,000 renewable scholarship through NIU's University Honors Program. You'll be automatically considered when you apply. Learn more

File Your FAFSA

The 2026-2027 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. File your FAFSA as soon as possible.

Apply for Scholarships

Submit your scholarship application in MyScholarships. A common deadline is January 31.

Federal Student Aid Changes

The newly passed "One Big Beautiful Bill" overhauls federal student loan repayment, changes the amount of money that can be borrowed through student federal loans, and slightly restricts who would be eligible for Pell grants. Importantly, these changes will not be effective until July 1, 2026. More guidance from the Department of Education and Federal Student Aid will be issued in the coming months.

More about federal student loan changes

At NIU, we understand that these federal changes may cause concerns about the potential for rising repayment costs and shifting financial pressures. Our commitment is to support our students every step of the way. We're here to help you explore all repayment options, maximize financial aid, and access personalized advising from our staff so you can keep your education affordable and stay on track toward your goals.

Please reach out to the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office to review your options and budgeting strategies. We've partnered with Ascendium Education Solutions, whose Student Loan Success Center (833-707-1220) can provide personalized service and help you prepare for and transition to student loan repayment.

FAFSA Workshops

Resources for You

For Prospective Students

Discover how to fund your NIU education and learn about scholarships, grants and financial aid options available to you.

For Current Students

Keep your financial aid on track and learn about maintaining your scholarships and grants throughout your time at NIU.

For Parents and Families

Supporting your student's success with resources and information to help navigate the financial aid process together.

Tools and Calculators

Estimate Your Costs

Use our calculators to estimate your tuition costs and potential financial aid.

Helpful Information

Access resources to help you understand financial aid terms and processes.

Search Our Site

Use our search tool to quickly find information about financial aid, scholarships and requirements.

Still can't find what you need? Check our FAQ or contact us.

Huskie Spotlight

I was very worried about how I would be paying for school, especially since I am a first-generation student. I am beyond grateful for the endless opportunities the academic scholarship I received has given me and will continue to give me during my time at NIU.

Diana Alvarez, public health sciences major