Northern Illinois University

Accepts first-year applications Midwest Public Suburban Large (15,000+) Co-Ed Charges no application fee - First Year No personal essay required - First Year No letter of recommendation required - First Year Test Optional/Flexible - First Year

Academic Programs

• Art & Design
• Business
• Communication
• Design
• Economics
• Education
• Engineering
• Finance/Accounting
• Government/Political Science
• Health Science
• Liberal Arts
• Music
• Nursing
• Performing Arts
• Research
• Science
• Social Science
• Technology
• Visual Arts

Student experience

• Athletics
• Co-op/Internship Opportunities
• Disability Services
• Distance/online learning
• Greek Life
• Intramural/Club Sports
• LGBTQIA Services
• Military/Veteran Services
• On-Campus Housing
• ROTC Program
• Study Abroad
• Undergraduate Research
• Veteran Fee Waiver

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

NIU does not consider ACT or SAT scores for general admission. If your cumulative high school GPA is 3.0 or higher, you're guaranteed general admission. If your GPA is below 3.0, we'll use our holistic application review process to reach a decision. In addition to your application, we must receive your official high school transcript. Self-reported credentials can be used for initial admission consideration, but must be submitted through our self-report form. There is no application fee.

• Summer Term – May 15
• Fall Term – August 1
• Spring Term – December 1

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