Undergraduate Admissions

We're more.

More than affordable. More than high-quality academics and hands-on research opportunities. More than a beautiful campus located 65 miles west of Chicago. More than a fun, welcoming community. 

We believe our life-changing university experience should be within reach of everyone, and we believe in you and your potential.

We look at potential, not test scores.

We don’t accept ACT or SAT scores when you apply. We'll look at your GPA for general admission. Learn more about our test-free admission requirements and our holistic review process.

Have questions? We would be happy to help.

Ask Virtual Victor

You can ask Virtual Victor E. Huskie questions anytime. Look for the chat icon at the top right of our Admissions web pages.

Contact Us

Feel free to contact us at admissions@niu.edu  or 815-753-0446.

Colleges of Distinction

We know that learning happens both inside and outside the classroom.

If you’re passionate about social justice, the environment, climate change, fighting inequity and more, we’ll give you the power to act, improve communities and your future.

Our engaged-learning opportunities throughout our community and beyond help you prepare for both career and life success, and we’ll even help you fund your involvement. 

Read more

Three engineering students working on their Senior Design Day project.
100+

Areas of Academic Study
 

Explore Academic Programs

200

Student Organizations
 

Get Involved

$27+M

Awarded in NIU Scholarships in 2022-23 
 

Learn About our Merit Scholarships

Back to top