NIU Student Emily Schaumberg.

Undergraduate Admissions

Welcome to the NIU School of Music! We’re glad you’re interested in studying with us. At NIU, you get the best of everything, from personalized attention and support to all the resources and experiences offered by a major research institution. You’ll work one-on-one with our world-renowned faculty, who perform across the country and around the world. Since we’re just 65 miles west of Chicago, you’ll have access to the music and culture of the city while you thrive in a hometown community that allows you to focus on your craft.

There are many ways to be involved with our School of Music. Whether you are interested in being a major, a minor or just being involved in ensembles, there's a place for you.

Application Deadlines

Term Deadline
Fall February 21
Spring  December 1

Application Process

  • 1

    Apply to NIU

    Apply for general admission to NIU

    • Be mindful of priority academic scholarship deadlines
    • You will need to have applied to NIU by the time of your audition. You are not required to have been admitted for general admission, but we encourage you to apply early.
  • 2

    Apply to the School of Music

    Complete your supplemental application

    • Submit two letters of letters of recommendation
      • Familial references are not accepted
      • References will be emailed a separate form directly upon the completion of this application
      • Please confirm with your references their willingness to complete this form prior to listing them
      • At least one reference should be able to speak to your musical capabilities, i.e. high school ensemble director, private lesson instructor, etc.
      • Recommendation forms are due prior to auditions
  • 3

    Register for Audition

    Register for your audition/interview

    • Auditions are held in February
    • Please review studio audition requirements

Contact

Austyn Menk

Austyn V. Menk
Music Admissions Coordinator
815-753-6306
avmenk@niu.edu
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