- International Admissions
- Life at NIU
- Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the application deadlines?
Application deadlines are posted on the deadlines page.
2. How long will it take to process my application?
The admission process can take four to six weeks from time of receipt of all required documents during peak processing periods. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that a completed application and all official transcripts and supporting documents have been submitted to NIU Admissions. You can monitor your application status and review your application file information online using MyNIU.
3. Is my application processed more quickly if I apply online?
Yes. Applications completed online are received immediately by the NIU Admissions office. The online application is the preferred method for applying to NIU.
4. How much does it cost to apply?
The application fee is $40. For online applications, it is IMPORTANT that you pay this fee using a credit card at the time you apply. You will not be able to pay the required application fee after you submitted the application. An application with no fee will not be processed.
5. How do I find out what courses I should register for?
Every new NIU international student must attend International Orientation. During this very important week we will provide you with valuable information about how Northern Illinois University operates. You will also meet with your academic advisor and register for classes.
6. What is the “HOLD” I see in my student account after admission?
All newly admitted international students will have an immigration hold on their account that prevents them from registering from classes. You must check in with the International Student & Faculty Office before you are allowed to register for classes. This information will be provided to you during the International Orientation.
7. What housing is available on campus?
NIU has five residence halls.
- New Residence Hall
- Stevenson Towers
- Grant Towers
- Neptune Hall
- Gilbert Hall - Upper division environment for juniors and seniors
Please visit the Housing & Residential Services site for more information.
8. Do I have to live in the residence halls?
The university Residency Requirement stipulates that all single students classified as freshmen (under 24 hours of NIU accepted college credit) who will have not reached their 21st birthday by September 1, and are not residing with their parents or legal guardians, must live in a Northern Illinois University residence hall for the full academic year (August – May).
9. How can I get around campus?
You don’t need a car to get around campus. With the Huskie Bus Line, Huskie Safe Line, Zipcar and the FreedomMobile for students with disabilities, there are a number of options for transportation.
Tuition and fee information is posted on the Office of the Bursar's site.
11. How can I get a catalog or class schedule?
The Undergraduate and Graduate Catalogs are available free online. Printed catalogs are provided to all undergraduate students at Orientation. Class schedules are searchable using the NIU Course Finder.
12. Does NIU offer health care and medical insurance for students?
Health Services provides medical care to all registered students, full-time or part-time, who have paid on-campus tuition and fees. All international students will be automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan. Students may use Health Services without being enrolled in the insurance plan. For more information, read about immunizations and health insurance for international students.
13. What kind of assistance does the university provide for students with disabilities?
We provide support services for students with a variety of disabilities. A wide range of services can be obtained including, but not limited to, housing, transportation, adaptation of printed materials, testing accommodations, sign language interpreters and advocacy with faculty and staff.
Your credits will be evaluated after you are admitted.
15. I have a 3-year (non-Bologna) bachelor's degree. Can I complete one year at NIU and receive an NIU degree?
It is important to understand that even though you finished three years of study at another university, it does not mean you will be able to receive an NIU degree in one year.
If you were not previously required to take general education courses, you will have 1.5 - 2 years of courses to complete plus any other requirements from your academic department.
16. How can I get to NIU from the airport?
Limo Services
Custom Limousine Service
Phone: 815-895-6500
Toll-free Number: 800-397-7921DeKalb O’Hare Limousine Service
136 Terrace Drive DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone: 815-758-0631
Toll-free Number: 877-367-5525Home James, Inc. Professional Limousine Service
9145 Rich Road DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone: 815-748-5466 or 815-758-1597
Toll-free Number: 877-740-4663
Email: homejamesdekalb@aol.com
Taxi Services
A1-Cab
847-888-3990 or 630-529-3990
Email: a1cabtaxireservation@gmail.comFox Cab Dispatch
277 Ford St Geneva, IL 60134
630-262-8822J&J Taxi
151 N 4th St. #7 DeKalb, IL 60115
815-787-7490Sycamore Transportation Services
815-899-1902
office@sycamoretaxi.com
Huskie Line
Shuttle Bus to Elburn (train station location to Chicago). Friday and Sunday schedule only.
You may also use private arrangements between you and a friend.
Contact Us
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: 815-753-1346
Email: IntlAdmissions@niu.edu
Request More Information
Register as a prospective student to receive more information about NIU.
