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 2022-2023 year have a priority deadline of June 1, 2022, and a final deadline of Aug. 15, 2022. 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" then "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

• June 1: priority deadline (current students) 
• June 15: individuals who meet the program criteria and rank in the top of the application pool will be invited to sign up for a group meeting with fellow applicants and the director of OSEEL and graduate assistant for Research Rookies 
• June 21-23: virtual interviews conducted with potential Research Rookies  
• Week of June 27: decision letters sent to applicants via email (applicants who applied by priority deadline) 
• Week of Sept. 5: orientation (exact date TBD)

Final Deadline Applicants

• Aug. 15: final application deadline (limited positions available)  
• Aug. 22: individuals who meet the program criteria and rank in the top of the application pool will be invited to sign up for a group meeting with fellow applicants and the director and director of OSEEL and graduate assistant for Research Rookies 
• Aug. 29-30: in-person interviews conducted with potential Research Rookies  
• Sept. 2: decision letters sent to applicants via email (applicants who applied by priority deadline)  
• Week of Sept. 5: orientation (exact date TBD) 

Note: dates are subject to change. Please check back for updated information.