Next Steps for Off-Campus and Online Transfer Students

Confirm your intent to enroll

Log in to your Next Steps Portal using your NIU email address, choose "Confirm Intent to Enroll."

We sent your Z-ID information to the personal email address you used when you applied. Learn how to activate your NIU Account ID.

Check your NIU email account regularly

Your NIU student email address is your Z-ID followed by @students.niu.edu. Access it at go.niu.edu/outlook. Download the Microsoft Outlook app so you'll be notified of important messages. Learn more about accessing your NIU email.

NIU uses multifactor authentication (MFA) to keep your account secure. You'll need your password and a code texted to your phone to log in. Download the free Microsoft Authenticator app and have a phone number ready before you log in for the first time.

Review how your credits transfer

A transfer credit evaluation will be available one to two weeks after you're admitted. We'll email you at both your personal and NIU email addresses when it's ready. View your transfer credit report in MyNIU by going to your Student Center. Contact the Office of Admissions at transfercenter@niu.edu with any questions about your evaluation.

Apply for financial aid and submit your FAFSA

Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. If you've already submitted it, confirm that NIU is on your list (school code 001737). If not, log back in to add us. After you file, check your NIU email and MyNIU to-do list regularly for any outstanding financial aid requirements.

Students from Illinois who are ineligible for federal aid should visit go.niu.edu/rise-act for information from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission about the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid.

Contact your academic advisor to register for classes

Find the advisor for your program and reach out to schedule a time to register for classes.

Submit your official transcripts from all colleges attended

You must provide official transcripts from each institution you attended. Transcripts must be printed within one year of your application date and must include all completed coursework at each institution. Review your MyNIU To Do List for any outstanding items needed to complete your admission file.