Graduate Admissions

Designed and delivered by expert faculty, our online graduate programs provide more than convenient, quality instruction. They offer opportunities to grow your professional networks, stay current with trends in your field and increase your career options.

Start building a brighter future today.

How to Apply

  • 1

    Connect with a Specialist

    Our online student success specialists will answer your questions and guide you through the admissions process.

    Connect with the specialist for your program of interest.

  • 2

    Review Requirements

    In order to apply, you must have the following:

    • Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution
    • Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher

    Required materials vary by program and generally include transcripts, letters of recommendation and a personal statement. You may also need to submit test scores and/or a resume.

  • 3

    Apply Online

    Follow the steps to apply to the Graduate School, which include:

    • Uploading required materials
    • Entering email addresses for your references
    • Paying an application fee

    You can save and come back to your application if you don’t finish it in one sitting.

    After you submit your application, you can log back in to see a list of materials and upload any you’re missing.

  • 4

    Accept Admission

    Admission decisions are made by academic departments, and  their timelines for making decisions vary.

    After the Graduate School informs you of your acceptance, log in to your next steps portal to confirm your admission.

International Students

You may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of English proficiency. Learn about additional application materials for international students.

Connect with the International Student and Scholar Services Office to learn about resources available to you.

Military/Veteran Students

You can get help using your benefits and other assistance from Military and Veteran Services.

If you’re a qualified veteran under the Illinois Veterans' Grant, you don’t need to pay the application fee. To request a fee waiver, email a copy of your DD214 to gradsch@niu.edu.

Students at Large

A student at large can take graduate-level classes without being admitted to a degree program. It’s a useful option if you’re pursuing a certificate, if you’re waiting to hear if you’ve been accepted into a program, or if you need to boost your GPA to meet admission requirements.

A limited number of credit hours earned as a student at large can be applied toward a future degree.

Start When You’re Ready

With multiple start dates a year, you can begin your program when it’s best for you:

  • Fall start: apply by July 15 (May 1 for international applicants)
  • Spring start: apply by Dec. 10 (Oct. 1 for international applicants)
  • Summer start: apply by June 1

Have Questions?

Office of Online Learning
815-753-6660
online@niu.edu

Request More Information