Graduation Information

You should apply for graduation during the semester in which you register for your final term. This is also known as applying for a degree. You must apply whether or not you plan to participate in the commencement ceremony.

Apply for Graduation (or Degree)

If you're an undergraduate student, visit Registration and Records for graduation information.

  • 1

    Prepare to Apply

    Learn the graduation deadlines that apply to you.

    Review the semester hour requirement. If you're completing a master's degree, you must have at least 21 semester hours to apply for graduation. If you're a doctoral student, you must have at least 75 semester hours.

  • 2

    Complete Your Application in MyNIU

    Log in to MyNIU. Select the Academic Records tile, click Application for Graduation, slide Select to Apply to Yes, then click Apply. Follow the steps to apply for graduation. 

    There is a one-time, nonrefundable fee of $55 per degree. It will be charged to your account once you complete this application

  • 3

    Keep Track of Your Progress

    During your final term, an initial audit letter will be sent to your NIU email address. It's your responsibility to review the letter, as well as the Academic Requirements page in MyNIU. Contact your advisor with any questions.

    If you won't complete the requirements on time, you must defer your graduation date. There's no charge to defer graduation.

Contact Us

The Graduate School
Williston Hall 100

815-753-0395
gradsch@niu.edu

Northern Illinois University
1425 West Lincoln Hwy
DeKalb, IL 60115

Directions and Maps

Hours: M-F, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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