Undergraduate Admissions
Your place to be.
We value diversity at NIU. Our students' talents, cultures and perspectives enrich our academics and community. Come join us 65 miles west of Chicago. We have all the resources you'd expect from a nationally recognized public research university, and you'll feel at home in our close-knit, dynamic campus. We'll give you personalized guidance as you earn a degree that can take you anywhere.
We look at potential, not test scores.
Starting in fall 2021, you won't need to submit your ACT or SAT score when you apply. We'll look at your GPA for general admission. Read more about test-blind admission requirements for fall 2021.
Have questions? We would be happy to help.
Try Our Live Chat
Our team is online to answer questions live:
Staff chat: Mon. - Fri. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. CST
Student chat: Mon. - Thurs. 3 - 7 p.m. CST
Ask Virtual Victor
You can ask Virtual Victor questions anytime of day, whenever someone is not available to chat with you live.
Talk with a Counselor
Meet your admissions counselor and contact directly or schedule an appointment to chat.
Wondering what you can study as a Huskie?
We’re constantly expanding our academic catalog to offer you the latest options to craft an undergraduate degree that’s personalized to you and your goals.
You’ll find these new NIU certificates, minors and more all have the same thing in common — connecting you to other people and the world, but especially the passions most important to you.
Temporary suspension of campus visits, tours and events
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, NIU has suspended public on-campus events, including campus visits and tours, until further notice. In addition, the Admission Office in Williston Hall is closed to all visitors until further notice. We are excited to connect with you online. See our visit options for virtual information sessions, appointments and tours. We are also standing by, ready to assist via phone and email. Please contact admissions@niu.edu or 815-753-0446.