Completed NIU Application
Apply online through Undergraduate Admissions.
Learn about the requirements for international students who are currently attending a U.S. high school.
You must have graduated by the time you start at NIU in order to be admitted.
You must have passing grades equivalent to a U.S. C+ average on all transcripts and/or exam scores.
Incoming freshmen will need to submit the following to be considered for admission to NIU:
Apply online through Undergraduate Admissions.
Your official U.S. transcript must be sent to NIU directly from your U.S. high school through either school’s transcript service (Parchment, National Student Clearinghouse, etc..) or through postal mail.
See International Coursework section of the Official Transcripts and Supporting Documents for guidance related to international secondary (high school) and postsecondary (college/university) academic records such as transcripts and diplomas.
Email IntlAdmissions@niu.edu with questions, including if you applied prior to January 12, 2026 and have or are providing international records directly to NIU.
You don't need to send your ACT or SAT score. Read more about test-free admission requirements.
Students enrolling at NIU must first prove they can communicate in English at a university level.
Any one of the following will be considered as adequate proof of English proficiency:
Note: students seeking an F-1 (student) visa will need to submit proof of financial ability after receiving an admission decision to receive their immigration documents.
All supporting documents necessary to process your application must be sent to:
International Admissions
Northern Illinois University
1425 West Lincoln Highway
DeKalb, IL 60115
USA
Phone:
815-753-8276
Email:
IntlAdmissions@niu.edu