Once you start taking classes at NIU, you must achieve a minimum grade point average (GPA) in order to stay at the university:
- Freshmen in their first semester must have a GPA of at least 1.60.
- All other undergraduates must have a GPA of at least 2.00.
If you don’t meet the minimum GPA, you’ll be placed on academic probation. This means you have one semester to improve your GPA to at least 2.00. If you do not, you may be required to leave NIU. This is called academic dismissal.
You may also face academic dismissal if you fail all the courses for which you’re registered during a semester or summer session.
To learn more about academic probation and dismissal, refer to the academic regulations in the undergraduate catalog.
Freshman Warning
If you’re a freshman in your first semester and your cumulative GPA is between 1.60 and 1.99, you’ll be placed on freshman warning. This is to make you aware that you face academic probation unless your GPA is at least 2.00 in your second semester.
If You’re on Academic Probation
If you’re placed on academic probation, you must meet with the dean of your major college (or their representative). If you’re not connected with a major or college, you’ll meet with a member of the Academic Advising Center staff.
For help improving your GPA, talk to your advisor. You can also visit the Huskie Academic Support Center.
If You’re Academically Dismissed
If you received an academic dismissal, you can appeal the decision. This means you can provide information to explain your situation and ask the university to let you stay. Learn more about the appeal process.