What are the required courses? Who makes up the faculty? Visit our academic program pages to view information about all of our master’s degree and doctoral degree programs including contact information for the program’s academic advisor. Doing your research will help you show that you are a good fit for the program when completing your application.

Most of our application deadlines fall in June, November and April, but dates vary by program and applications may not be accepted for some terms. All application deadlines are listed on individual academic program pages on the NIU Grad School website. Find out when your application is due and then get your application in well before the deadline.

NIU’s admission process differs based on the type of student you are – domestic, international or non-degree seeking. Take the time to understand the process that applies to your situation. Make sure you schedule a few weeks to gather your required materials, collect your thoughts and write a cohesive and compelling argument about why you are the ideal candidate for NIU.

Applying to NIU is not complicated, but there are many things you will need to know before you get started. Read an overview of our admissions process and then research the specific application materials for master’s degree candidates and doctoral degree candidates. Some programs require additional application materials like a portfolio or an audition. Review your program’s requirements carefully and be prepared. NIU also has specific guidelines for applicants who are non-U.S. citizens. If you stop and start the application because you don’t have everything ready, you run the risk of making mistakes.

This is similar to the previous tip, but it is really that important. If the application asks for two letters of recommendation, send two. You may think that three (or ten!) would be better, but resist the urge to add more. This advice applies to every part of the application. The way that you apply is just as important as test scores and grades. It shows you can follow directions and have respect for the process.

Do you need to take the GRE, GMAT, MAT, IELTS or TOEFL? It may sound elementary, but learn more about the test before you take it. The official websites for the specific tests are full of helpful information. Although NIU’s Graduate School does not establish a minimum for the GRE, GMAT or MAT, admissions are competitive. Plainly said, the higher your scores, the more competitive your application will be. Review NIU’s guidelines for test score reporting and make sure you have your scores sent before the application deadline.

Talk to the individuals who will write a letter of recommendation for you before you start the application. What do they need to write you a good letter? Information about your goals, intentions for your degree and career, and examples of your work may help them write the perfect letter that makes you stand out as an ideal candidate. How many letters of recommendation do you need? It depends on your program. Check the individual program for the specific number of letters you will need.

Why are you interested in attending NIU for grad school? Why are you interested in this particular field of study? How will attending NIU help you reach your goals? Now boil those answers down to a brief (circa 250-500 word) Statement of purpose essay that perfectly explains why NIU is the ideal school for your education and career goals. Be yourself. This isn’t the time to embellish your experience or apologize for your grades. Simply present yourself as you are and how NIU will help you grow.

Whether graduate school is your next step after college or is a stepping stone to advance your current career, professionalism counts. Whether you are writing an essay or speaking to a professor, choose a tone that’s polite and respectful.

Ready to apply to NIU? You can have impressive scores and amazing letters of recommendation, but if your application contains misspellings and mistakes, you will be seen as careless and sloppy. Not a good combination! Take your time and look over your application. Print it off and look at it with fresh eyes. Ask a friend to take a look. Whatever it takes to ensure there are no grammatical or spelling errors.