Still Deciding?

You're in the right place. We can help you find the information you need to make your decision.

You have time. Our confirmation deadline for fall enrollment is Aug. 15. Take the time you need — but once you're sure, confirming early means better access to orientation dates, housing options and course selection. View all deadlines.

Understanding Your Cost

Figuring out what college will actually cost you is easier than it seems. Start with whichever of these applies to your situation.

You Have a Financial Aid Offer

Need help logging in? Activate your NIU Account ID. Not sure what your offer includes? Read Understanding Your Financial Aid Offer.

View Your Offer in MyNIU

You Haven't Received an Offer Yet

To receive an offer, you need to complete a FAFSA (school code 001737) or the Illinois Alternative Application for Financial Aid.

We send offers on a rolling basis as applications are completed. If you've filed and haven't heard yet, check your MyNIU To Do List and NIU student email for outstanding requirements. Questions? Contact the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office.

Try Our Net Price Calculator

Understand Your Offer

Not sure what your award letter means? Join a free online presentation from the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office. Get a walkthrough of your offer and submit questions live.

Talk to a Financial Aid Advisor

If your financial situation has changed since you filed your FAFSA, or you want to talk through your options one on one, our financial aid advisors can help. Call 815-753-1395 or email finaid@niu.edu.

Contact Financial Aid

See NIU for Yourself

We make it easy to experience NIU before you decide. Choose the option that works best for you.

Admitted Student Events

See what events are coming up for admitted students, including in-person and virtual options.

View Admitted Student Events

Daily Campus Tours

Register for a guided tour and admissions presentation on a date that fits your schedule. College-specific visits are available on select dates.

Schedule a Visit

Self-Guided Tour

Can't make a scheduled visit? Request our self-guided tour map and explore campus on your own time.

Get the Tour Map

See NIU Through a Huskie's Eyes

Each week a different NIU student takes over our Instagram to share what life at NIU really looks like. Follow along to get an authentic feel for campus.

Follow @HuskiesofNIU

About DeKalb and Our Location

NIU's main campus is in DeKalb, about 65 miles west of Chicago. For students who want access to a major metro area without living in it, that location is a real advantage. The Huskie Bus Line is free for NIU students and connects the campus with the broader community. Our Elburn Shuttle runs seven days a week and takes students directly to the Elburn Metra station for easy, free access to Chicago and the western suburbs.

DeKalb is a college town. Most of what students need day-to-day, from dining and retail to health care and entertainment, is within a short drive or bus ride. NIU also offers on-campus apartments and suite-style housing for students who want more independence than a traditional residence hall.

What to Do in DeKalb

Not Sure About Your Path?

Whether you're weighing your major, thinking about starting at a community college first or just not sure where to begin, you're in good company. Here are some resources to help you figure out your next move.

Planning to Start at a Community College?

Many Huskies start at a community college and transfer to NIU to finish their degree. See how your courses will transfer and what you should be taking for your intended major.

View Course Equivalencies and Major Guides

Explore Programs of Study

Browse our full list of undergraduate majors, minors and concentrations by college or subject area.

Browse Academic Programs

It's OK to Be Undecided

Many students arrive without a major and that's completely normal. Our Academic Advising Center works with undecided students through exploratory tracks across five broad interest areas to help you find the right fit before you commit.

Explore With an Advisor

Considering a Later Start?

Already admitted and thinking about starting at a later date? Contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@niu.edu to discuss your options.

Still Have Questions?

Our admissions team is here to help. Whether you have a question about your financial aid offer, want to talk through your program options or just need someone to walk you through next steps, we're ready.

You can also get quick answers anytime using Mission, your personal helper bot. Look for the chat icon in the lower right corner of this page.

Schedule an Advisor Appointment Email Admissions