To be considered for financial aid for fall and/or spring you must file a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and an NIU Financial Aid Application. You must also be enrolled for a minimum of 12 credits and be matriculated in a degree program in which study abroad credits earned will be applied to your degree requirements. If you are participating in a summer program, you must fill out the NIU Summer Financial Aid Application and be enrolled for a minimum of 3 credit hours. If you are currently receiving financial aid, you are probably eligible for financial assistance for a summer, semester, or year abroad. If you participate on an NIU Administered or approved cosponsored program, you may apply your financial aid package to the cost of the study abroad program. Tuition waivers do not apply, but other financial aid such as grants and loans may.
Click here for a checklist to use when applying for financial aid for study abroad
In many cases it is possible to have your award increased. The circumstances under which this may apply will be different for each individual student and dependent upon the study abroad program. You need to make appointments with a financial aid advisor and our Business Manager. Our Business Manager will provide the Financial Aid Office with an itemized cost list which will show the increase in your financial needs.