RVC to NIU: Continue Your Success Story

A Seamless Path for Rock Valley College Rockford Promise Scholars 

Transform your associate's degree from Rock Valley College into a bachelor's degree at Northern Illinois University through our groundbreaking Rockford Promise Transfer Scholar Program.

Starting Fall 2025, eligible Rockford Promise Scholars can continue their education at NIU with full tuition and fees covered.

Full Tuition and Fees Coverage

As a Rockford Promise Transfer Scholar, you'll receive:

• Full tuition and general fees coverage at NIU.
• Support for up to two years or until graduation.
• Dedicated academic and enrollment support.
• Seamless transfer experience from RVC to NIU.

The RVC Rockford Promise Scholars program covers tuition and general fee expenses that aren't met by other financial aid. To determine if you need additional scholarship assistance to meet tuition and general fee expenses, we'll look at your initial NIU, federal and state aid. This includes:

• Federal Pell and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants.
• State of Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) Grants.
• AIM HIGH Transfer Scholarships.
• NIU Merit Scholarships.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the program, you must:

• Be a current Rockford Promise Scholar at Rock Valley College.
• Earn your associate's degree from RVC with a 2.5 GPA or higher.
• Maintain good standing with Rockford Promise while at RVC.
• Enroll as a full-time student at NIU (minimum 12 credits per semester).

Your Support Team

We're committed to your success! As a Rockford Promise Transfer Scholar, you'll have access to:

• A dedicated NIU transfer pre-enrollment admission counselor.
• Specialized academic advising at RVC to support your transition.
• Regular information sessions and meetings at RVC.
• Comprehensive academic support services at NIU.

Maintaining Your Scholarship

To continue receiving the scholarship after your first year at NIU:

• Maintain full-time enrollment status.
• Keep a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
• Maintain continuous enrollment (excluding summer terms).

Why Choose NIU?

As the region's only recognized Research University with high research activity, NIU stands out as a leader in innovation and economic prosperity. We're committed to advancing student success and social mobility through our diverse academic programs and robust support services. Our deep connections to the Rockford community, coupled with strong partnerships and workforce development initiatives, make NIU an ideal choice for students looking to advance their education while staying connected to their community.