For Families

Dependents of F-1 or J-1 students include spouses and children, and dependents are allowed to stay in the U.S. in F-2 or J-2 status for the duration of the F-1 or J-1 student's study, including any post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) time.

Your spouse or children may not work. F-2 visa holders may volunteer, as long as the position is unpaid and cannot be considered employment. Your spouse and/or children may enroll in school and study part-time at the university level.

Children

Child F-2 dependents may attend kindergarten through 12th grade while accompanying an F-1 parent in the U.S. Only part-time post-secondary education is allowed.

On-campus Child Care

The on-campus Child Development and Family Center (CDFC) provides high-quality care and learning opportunities to children ages 3 months to 5 years. Children enrolled at the center typically have a parental connection to NIU. The center is composed of several classrooms: three for infants, three for toddlers, two for 2-year-olds and four preschool rooms.