Northern Illinois University
Undocumented Student Resources

NIU’s Commitment to the support of Undocumented Students

Northern Illinois University, as reflected in its vision statement, is a community of diverse people, providing access for a broad spectrum of students with a climate of respect for all. We, as an institution, intentionally address emerging, complex issues surrounding undocumented students.

NIU strives to

• Ensure a climate of respect for the intrinsic dignity of each individual. It is imperative that our community is actively engaged in a dialogue that promotes the development of global awareness, cultural competence, empathy and sensitivity for all.
• Continually assess the current practices of our campus to ensure that services, policies and internal structures are free of bias, maintain educational access, support the success of each student, contribute to a climate of respect and foster a welcoming environment for all.
• Dedicate efforts to pursue private funding sources that will provide adequate financial assistance to our students who have yet to attain U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency. These efforts are driven by the belief that all students who work hard deserve access to opportunities they have earned.
• Support the advancement of common sense immigration reform for the good of our economy and our society, each of our graduates deserve the right to work, participate meaningfully in our society, and contribute to the economic health of our nation.

Undocumented students of all nationalities and ethnicities need a safe and supportive community. As a student at NIU, you have a right to privacy that is protected by law. Faculty and staff should hold your immigration status in confidence just like your educational records, grades and medical information.

Please join us as we come together as a united community to educate, retain, and graduate all students, each of whom contribute to our cultural and intellectual diversity.