• 1

  Register for Orientation and Pay Your Confirmation Fee

  By paying your confirmation fee, you’ll reserve your spot for online orientation.

• 2

  Complete the Pre-Orientation Program (POP)

  You should start this required program at least two weeks before orientation. It will help you learn about the requirements for your major and introduce you to tools and resources.

  To access the program, log in to MyNIU. From the Student Homepage, click on the pre-orientation program link in the upper left corner. Turn your speakers on for the embedded videos (we recommend you use a computer). You can leave the program at any time. It will remember where you left off.

• 3

  Check Your Major

  It's important that we have your correct major at orientation. If you changed your major since you applied to NIU, fill out a change your major form. After you submit the form, we'll send you confirmation of the change within 48 hours.

  Please note: If you change your major, you may have to change your orientation date. If this happens, we will contact you to reschedule.

• 4

  Take Placement Tests

  Please see our FAQ for information about placement testing. If you have any questions, please contact Testing Services at 815-753-1203 or testing@niu.edu.

• 5

  Get Ready for Advising and Registration

  During your online orientation, you’ll meet with your academic advisor virtually and register for classes. Here's how to prepare to meet with your advisor:

  • Send in all final transcripts from all previous colleges and universities.
  • Prepare a list of courses you’re currently enrolled in.
  • Check out your Transfer Credit Report in MyNIU.
  • Review the general education requirements.
  • View course descriptions and requirements for your major in the Undergraduate Catalog.
  • Explore the advising website for your chosen academic program’s college.
  • Make a list of courses you're interested in taking.
  • Review your college’s four-year degree path.
  • Find a location that’s quiet, with few distractions.
• 6

  Submit a Photo for Your ID

  Prepare for the start of the fall by submitting your photo for your OneCard (student ID) at least one week before orientation. Learn more about submitting your photo.

• 7

  Enroll in the Transfer University Experience Course and Complete Class Registration

  After meeting with your academic advisor, it’s important to complete your course registration. Enrolling in the transfer University Experience (UNIV) course will set you up for success for your first year at NIU and beyond.

• 8

  Explore Career Preparation and Engagement Opportunities

  Get ready for your first semester at NIU. The last few weeks before starting classes on campus is the perfect time to check out the resources we have to prepare you for your future career. Explore the opportunities to gain experience in research, teaching and other professional development.

• 9

  Begin Classes

  Fall classes will begin on Aug. 24, 2020.

 

Online Program

Please plan to complete the self-guided Pre-Orientation Program module at least two weeks before online orientation. An academic advisor from your college will contact you after May 1 to provide you with your advising appointment time on your chosen session date.

Also starting in May, we will provide you with a menu of remote resource sessions that you will be able to access online to learn more about topics including financial aid and scholarships, housing and dining, campus life and academic resources, as well as special programs like Honors, CHANCE and NIU Athletics.

You also will have an opportunity to meet with student Orientation Leaders via virtual chats throughout the summer. Our team will send a complete overview of orientation to your NIU email account.