Important: You must have your OneCard in order to purchase books online using the Book Charge Program.
NIU students who receive financial aid have a convenient method of buying books and school supplies at the beginning of each semester. You can use your OneCard ID at Huskie Books and Gear (815-753-1081) to purchase your books and school supplies using your student bursar account and you will be billed at a later day. Please visit the Bursar's Office website for billing and payment due dates.
Please note that only students who are receiving financial aid can use this feature.
Semester |
Eligible Per-Semester Maximums |
Book Charge Start Date |
Book Charge End Date |
Fall 2023 |
up to $700 |
July 25, 2023 |
CLOSED |
Spring 2024 |
up to $700 |
Dec 18, 2023 |
Jan 26, 2024 |
Summer 2024 |
up to $350 |
May 28, 2024 |
Jun 28, 2024 |
Huskie Books and Gear
Hours of Operation
Monday through Thursday (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Friday (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Book Delivery/Pick-up Options
Books purchased online can be shipped to the mailing address provided at checkout or can be picked up in the store.
Book Returns
For instructions on how to return books, please visit Huskie Books and Gear return policy.
Authorized Purchases
Below you will find a list of authorized purchases using the book charge program. The OneCard Office and Huskie Books and Gears has the authority to deny any unauthorized purchases.
- Books
- School supplies
- Electronics
- Computer/Laptop
- Computer Accessories
- Printer and Ink
- Software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop)
- Apple Products (excluding Apple Watch)
Quantity Limit: Cannot purchase the same Apple item more than once in a term. Cannot resell purchased items.
Book Program Exceptions
Book allowance increase: If your “course materials” for the term cost more than the book allowance amount of $700, please send an email to onecard@niu.edu. Book allowance increase will only be allowed on required course material.
Book charge Extension: If your course material is on back order or is not available to purchase at Huskie Books and Gear before the book charge period ends, please send an email to onecard@niu.edu and include your ZID, course name, and book IBSN.