Post-Orientation Information

Next Steps For First-year Students

If you have not already done so, please review and complete the important steps below before the semester begins.

• Submit Final High School Transcript

  Your final transcript must be sent directly to NIU by your high school.

  Check your MyNIU To-Do List to avoid registration holds.

  Mail to:
  Northern Illinois University
  Office of Admissions
  Attn: Processing
  1425 W. Lincoln Highway
  DeKalb, IL 60115-9913

  Questions: regrec@niu.edu

• Take Placement Testing (If Needed)

  Placement tests help ensure you’re in the right courses.

  1. Review the information on our Testing Services website to determine which placement tests you need to take,
  2. Schedule exams (if needed)
  3. Contact your advisor after testing to review changes

  815-753-1203
  testing@niu.edu

• Request College Credit (Dual/AP/CLEP)

  To receive credit:

  • Dual/College courses → Official transcript sent directly from the Community College.
  • AP→ Official scores sent by the College Board to NIU Testing Services (scores of 3–5 typically earn credit). 
  • Seal of Biliteracy or Commendation. If noted on your high school transcript, email the Department of World Languages and Cultures at askfl@niu.edu to request that credits be applied. 

  Questions: admissions@niu.edu

• Provide Immunization Records (On-Campus Students)

  On-campus students are required by the Illinois College Student Immunization Act to provide proof of immunity to
  • MMR
  • Td/Tdap
  • Meningitis

  If you see an Immunization Compliance HOLD, submit records immediately.

  ImmunizationRecords@niu.edu

• Manage Student Health Insurance

  If enrolled in 9+ on-campus credit hours, you are automatically billed for NIU student health insurance (unless fully online).

  Have other coverage?
  You can waive, or cancel, our insurance during the waiver period

  Questions: studentinsurance@niu.edu

• Enroll in Payment Plan Option (HIP)

  The Huskie Installment Plan (HIP) lets you divide your semester bill into four equal monthly payments.

• Stay Connected

  Check your NIU email regularly for updates from your advisor and campus offices.