Apply

In order to apply for the Research Rookies program, you must sign in to MyScholarships and complete a general application. Once you have completed the general application, you may then apply for research rookies.

Applications for the 2021-2022 year have a priority deadline of July 15, 2021, and a final deadline of August 25, 2021. See the application timeline below for more information on the review process.

Apply Now

Application Information

1. Sign in to MyScholarships with your Z-ID and password. After signing in, you will be redirected to the homepage, where you will fill out the general application and have the opportunity to apply for the Research Rookies program.
2. Fill out the general application on MyScholarships which includes:
   • A personal statement (500 words max)
   • Financial need description
   • List of activities (community service, volunteering, work experience) and awards you have participated in through high school or your previous or current institution.
3. You will instantly be matched with all scholarships or programs that you qualify for. If Research Rookies is recommended, click "apply". You can also search for "Research Rookies" if the opportunity does not appear as a recommendation.
4. Answer the Research Rookies supplemental questions in MyScholarships:
   • Briefly describe your research interests. Provide background on the topic you would like to explore for your research project, including any NIU faculty you are interested in working alongside.
   • How will participation in undergraduate research help you to achieve your academic and career goals at NIU?
   • Discuss the skills that you have that will be useful in your research (i.e. computer competency, qualitative/quantitative research skills, knowledge about statistical programs, etc.).
   • What is your alternative email address and personal phone number? (Please note that this email address will be the primary form of communication).
   • Will you be a first-semester freshman, first-year transfer or sophomore in the fall semester?
   • Confirm acknowledgment that the Research Rookies program is a year-long commitment and you receive a $500 scholarship upon completion of all program requirements in May if accepted into the program.
5. Click "finish" "submit".

Application Criteria

When applying for Research Rookies, the review committee considers the following:

• Quality response to supplemental questions.
  • Written responses address all essay question writing prompts clearly and directly.
  • Response indicates depth and complexity of thought in answering the essay question.
  • Response is free from any errors in grammar, usage and mechanics.
• If a student ranks in the top of the application pool, they will be granted an interview with the review committee. Interaction and responses during the interview are also considered when making final selections.
• GPA is major factor in making final selections. Minimum 2.75.

Application Timeline

Priority Deadline Applicants

• July 15 - priority deadline
• Week of July 26 - individuals who meet the program criteria and rank in the top of the application pool will be invited to signup for a group meeting with fellow applicants and the director and associate director of OSEEL
• August 5-6, 9-10- online meetings conducted with potential Research Rookies
• August 13- decision letters sent to applicants via email (applicants who applied by priority deadline)
• August 24 - orientation
• September 7 - monthly cohort meetings begin

Final Deadline Applicants

• August 25 - final application deadline (limited positions available)
• August 30 - individuals who meet the program criteria and rank in the top of the application pool will be invited to signup for a group meeting with fellow applicants and the director and associate director of OSEEL
• September 1-2 - in-person meetings conducted with potential Research Rookies
• September 6 - decision letters sent to applicants via email (applicants who applied by priority deadline)
• September 7 - orientation
• September 7- monthly cohort meetings begin