College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Transfer Students

First Steps

Initiate Your Transfer

Begin the transfer process to NIU by reaching out to Undergraduate Admissions. They will guide you through the initial steps and requirements.

Associate’s Degree Transfers

If you are transferring with an associate’s degree from an Illinois public community college, updated transfer guides tailored to your intended major will be available shortly. In the interim, for detailed information, please consult your major department.

Orientation and Registration

After admission, it's crucial to sign up for and attend an orientation session. During orientation, you'll meet with a CLAS advisor and enroll in classes.

Next Steps

Final Transcripts

Ensure that final transcripts from all previously attended institutions are sent directly to NIU's Undergraduate Admissions.

Coursework Articulation

To understand how your coursework from Illinois public community colleges transfers to NIU, review the articulation tables.

Advising Meetings

Schedule meetings with both your CLAS advisor and your major advisor each semester to plan your academic journey effectively. October and March are the optimal months for these consultations.

Course Registration

Register for your courses on your assigned enrollment date, which can be found in the MyNIU Student Center each semester.

Community College Partnerships

Northern Illinois University (NIU) values its strong partnerships with community colleges, offering streamlined pathways and support for students transitioning from two-year institutions to NIU's diverse range of programs. Learn more about how we collaborate with specific community colleges to ensure a smooth transfer process and support your academic journey:

University Center at McHenry County College (MCC)

Discover the unique opportunities available through the University Center at McHenry County College. This partnership provides a range of bachelor's degree completion programs, master's degrees and professional development options at MCC, designed to fit the needs of students looking for convenience and quality in their continuing education.

Harper College Partnership

Explore how NIU's collaboration with Harper College opens doors for students seeking to transfer to NIU. This partnership focuses on creating seamless transfer experiences, offering guidance, and ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed both during their transition and as they pursue their degrees at NIU.