How to Apply
You can apply if you have a bachelor’s degree in anthropology or a related field. You’re expected to have at least 15 undergraduate credit hours in anthropology. If you don’t, you’ll need to complete compensatory work during your graduate program.
Before applying, we recommend that you identify and contact a faculty member you’d be interested in working with during your program. View a list of faculty currently accepting students.
You’ll apply through the Graduate School.
We accept applications during the three application periods defined below:
| Application Period |
To Start In |
Funding Options |
Decision Period |
| Dec. 1 – Feb. 1 |
Fall |
Graduate assistantships and tuition waivers |
March |
| Feb. 2- Apr. 30 |
Fall |
None |
May |
| May 2 – Nov. 1 |
Spring |
None |
December |
Application Materials
Your application materials will include:
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals who have a professional or academic relationship with you, are familiar with the demands of a graduate program and can speak to your ability to succeed in such a program. Discuss with them in advance whether you’ll waive or retain your right to read the letter.
- Personal statement (750-1000 words) that outlines your preparation for graduate study, your goals for graduate school and beyond, and why our program can help you meet your goals. If applying to the thesis track, explain how your research interests overlap with those of a faculty member (or members) who might potentially serve as your thesis advisor(s).
- Resume/CV in PDF format indicating relevant educational, professional and/or or volunteer experience.
Costs and Funding
Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students.
If you’re interested in studying topics related to Southeast Asia, you may wish to apply for a Foreign Language and Area Studies Graduate Fellowship.
Assistantships
We offer teaching assistantships that include a partial tuition waiver and a weekly stipend. We offer research assistantships depending on funding availability. Please contact the faculty member you’re interested in working with about the possibility of obtaining a research assistantship.
To apply, fill out a graduate assistantship application (PDF) and send it to April Law at aphelps@niu.edu before Feb. 1 to be considered for the next academic year. You should check that you’re interested in both a fall and spring assistantship. We do not offer summer assistantships.
