Financial Aid and Scholarship Office

We're your partners in making a quality education affordable and within reach.

The Financial Aid and Scholarship Office helps students and families navigate the financial aid process, maximize available funding and create a plan that works for your family. From application through graduation, we're here to help you invest in your future with confidence.

Updates and Reminders

Submit your 2026-27 FAFSA by Saturday, April 25

A U.S. Department of Education system update on Sunday, April 26, 2026 will prevent colleges and universities from loading new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) records until a software fix is in place. NIU’s Financial Aid and Scholarship Office estimates it will resume loading FAFSA records in June.

To receive a financial aid offer from NIU for the 2026-27 academic year, you must have a completed FAFSA on file. Students who submit their FAFSA by Saturday, April 25 will have their applications loaded on a rolling basis and will receive their financial aid offer as their application is completed. Students who submit on or after Sunday, April 26 may not receive a financial aid offer until July.

Federal Student Aid Changes

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduces major changes to federal loans and aid eligibility starting July 1, 2026. Whether you're a student or a parent, now is the time to understand how these changes may affect you.

New annual and lifetime limits on Parent PLUS and GradPLUS loans for new borrowers
Current income-driven repayment plans (IBR, PAYE, SAVE) are being eliminated
Updates to Pell Grant and FAFSA asset exemption rules take effect for 2026-2027

Learn what's changing and how to prepare

View upcoming Financial Aid and Scholarship Office events

Resources for You

For Prospective Students

Discover how to fund your NIU education and learn about scholarships, grants and financial aid options available to you.

For Current Students

Keep your financial aid on track and learn about maintaining your scholarships and grants throughout your time at NIU.

For Parents and Families

Supporting your student's success with resources and information to help navigate the financial aid process together.

Tools and Calculators

Estimate Your Costs

Use our calculators to estimate your tuition costs and potential financial aid.

Helpful Information

Access resources to help you understand financial aid terms and processes.

Search Our Site

Use our search tool to quickly find information about financial aid, scholarships and requirements.

Still can't find what you need? Check our FAQ or contact us.

Huskie Spotlight

I was very worried about how I would be paying for school, especially since I am a first-generation student. I am beyond grateful for the endless opportunities the academic scholarship I received has given me and will continue to give me during my time at NIU.

Diana Alvarez, public health sciences major