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Last updated on 26 Nov '25NIU USAWhat's new?
- Admissions for 2026 are expected to open soon at NIU.
- The upcoming deadline for admission to UG and PG courses is: May 1, 2026
About Northern Illinois University
Established in 1895, Northern Illinois University is a public university based in DeKalb, Illinois, United States. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, NIU is a popular choice among Indian students for its variety of courses, a vibrant academic environment, and high-quality research.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education has acknowledged it as a university of high research activity, spending millions in research across popular areas like Climate Change, Quantum Physics, Particle Accelerators, and Data Science. It is also part of the Top American Colleges, released by Forbes for the year 2026.
Admissions can be considered moderately difficult, as the Northern Illinois University Acceptance Rate stands at 70%, which suggests priority is given to academically bright students. In terms of academic structure, the university is divided into seven colleges, one each for Business, Engineering, Education, Health and Human Sciences, Law, Visual and Performing Arts, and Liberal Arts and Sciences.
University Information
Mentioned below are some interesting facts that are worth knowing about studies at NIU:
|
Fact |
Validation |
|---|---|
|
Location |
231 N Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb, Illinois, USA |
|
Endowment |
USD 113.6 Million |
|
Minimum GPA |
2.75 |
|
Total Students (Fall 2025) |
16,078 |
|
Undergraduate Students |
12,118 |
|
Graduate Students |
3,608 |
|
College of Law Students |
352 |
|
Student-To-Faculty Ratio |
14:1 |
|
Sporting Affiliation |
Mountain West Conference. Pac-12 Conference, and Horizon League |
|
Newspaper |
Northern Star and NIU Today |
History
The university began as a teacher's college that went by Northern Illinois State Normal School, with John Wilston taking over as the first president. In 1900, the university honored its first graduates, while welcoming its first batch of overseas students in 1904. After the two world wars, the university began its expansion, starting the College of Business in 1961, while also offering its first doctoral degrees in the same year. 1985 saw the university start the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, followed by the opening of the NIU Convocation Center in 2002.
Check out the videos below to know more about student life at NIU:
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
As an Indian student, 3.0 for UG and 2.75 on a 4 point scale for PG courses is enough. Apart from the GPA, good scores in either GMAT or GRE, English proficiency scores, and an essay is needed as a student from India.
Graduates are expected to submit GMAT scores at NIU as basic requirements along with various other requirements. The minimum GMAT score required is 550 out of 800 from international graduate applicants. Some graduate applicants require a GRE score with an average score of 150 per section. Along with GRE/ GMAT scores, students must submit GPA scores, unofficial transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and proof of their English proficiency during admission.
Northern Illinois University is among the top universities for international students in Canada. The University is known for having the highest placement rate. Moreover, university graduates are consistently in high demand worldwide. Also, the graduates work in top sectors such as Business Development, Sales, Engineering, Information Technology, and more. A few of the top employers at Northern Illinois University are listed below:
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- Salesforce
- Chief
- PwC
- United Airlines
- CDW
- McDonald’s
- AbbVie
- Discover Financial Services
Thousands of students apply to NIU every year from across the US and around the world. Northern Illinois University acceptance rate is 70%. With such a high acceptance rate, Northern Illinois University is moderately selective for admissions. However, for some of its popular courses due to high demand the university is more selective and therefore, admissions may be tougher than normal. Therefore, international students are advised to check the eligibility before applying for their course at Northern Illinois University.
Northern Illinois University Ranking 2026
The Northern Illinois University maintains its reputation as a university that offers a reliable career path to Indian students, and is ranked by several prominent university ranking platforms like Shiksha, US News, and THE. Shiksha gives the Northern Illinois University Ranking as #218 in the US and #774 in the world, as part of its latest Popularity Rankings.
By Other Ranking Bodies
US News ranks it #301 in the US for 2026, while Times Higher Education gives Northern Illinois University World Ranking of #801 for 2025.
#815
#217
Northern Illinois University Programs
As an Indian student, you can choose from more than 100 undergraduate and 80 graduate programs as part of the pool of Courses at NIU. This includes degrees, graduate certification programs, and online courses. At NIU, you have the flexibility to pursue a program in both full and part-time formats.
Northern Illinois University Popular Majors
Mechanical Engineering, Psychology, Nursing, Liberal Arts, and Accountancy are among the more popular course options pursued by students at NIU.
Northern Illinois University Online Degrees
There are 48 online courses for you to choose from across several popular industry-relevant streams such as Data Science, Digital Marketing, Arts and Design, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Business Administration, and Management.
4.2(1)1 year - 24 months
Guided 4.4K students to USA universities.
13.7K+ students got admitted through us.
Guided 4.4K students to USA universities.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Accredited by the Computer Accreditation Commission of ABET, the Computer Science programme at Northern Illinois University shows that it is one of the quality programs of the university. The programme revolves around the subjects, such as Algorithms, Data Structure, Computer Architecture, Artificial Intelligence, Database Systems, and more.
The programme provides thesis and non-thesis option via faculty members with strong research backgrounds. The CS graduates get the best opportunities after completing the programs along with research projects.
Northern Illinois University Admission 2026
Indian students can apply via the official university website for Admission at NIU. As part of the application process, students would be required to submit a set of academic and personal documents for the university to verify and approve. You can then submit your application after paying the standard Northern Illinois University Application fee worth USD 60 (INR 5.3 K) for most PG courses. You don't have to pay an application fee for UG courses.
Northern Illinois University Application Deadline
Mentioned below are the upcoming deadlines for Indian students at the University of Northern Illinois:
|
Semester |
Application Deadline - UG |
Application Deadline - PG |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall |
May 1, 2026 |
May 1, 2026 |
|
Spring |
Oct 1, 2026 |
Oct 1, 2026 |
|
Summer |
Not Eligible |
Jun 1, 2026 |
Northern Illinois University Eligibility Criteria
- Academic transcripts in English
- Prove English Proficiency
- Completed NIU Application
- USA Student Visa
- Valid passport with a validity of an additional 6 months over the duration of your studies
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume or CV
- Letters of Recommendation
Undergraduate Requirements
As an Indian student, you would need to submit a High School Diploma or Class 12th Completion Certificate with a minimum grade - C+ as per the academic standards in the US. A minimum TOEFL-iBT score of 71, or an IELTS score of 6.0, is enough to prove your proficiency in English. You don't need to submit an SAT or ACT score, as the high-school GPA is the only thing taken into account for UG admissions at NIU.
Graduate Requirements
For graduate courses, you should have a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale, submit unofficial transcripts, and attain good scores in either the GRE or the GMAT exam, as per the course you're applying for. The minimum TOEFL-iBT score you need is 80, while a 6.5 in IELTS is enough.
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
International students who are not native English speakers are required to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language. Northern Illinois University accepts all the major English language test scores. The minimum English language requirements for international students are given below:
| Exam | Scores |
|---|---|
| TOEFL | 80 |
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| PTE | 53 |
| Duolingo | 115 |
Getting admission to Northern Illinois University or any other prestigious university requires students with passion, commitment and diligence. With sincerity, any student who can afford to study abroad can join Northern Illinois University. However, students must fulfil the eligibility criteria of the programme they are seeking admission into. Indian students seeking admission at Illinois University are required to have a minimum education of high school from a recognised board, with English, mathematics, Science and social Science as compulsory subjects. Furthermore, they are also required to show their English Language Proficiency by qualifying for any of the exams such as TOEFL iBT/ TOEFL PBT/ IELTS and others.s If an Indian student from tier 2/ tier 3 manages to satisfy the eligibility criteria, then she/he can surely join Northern Illinois University.
NIU USANorthern Illinois University Scholarships
You can reduce the overall cost of your studies by applying for Scholarships at Northern Illinois University, most of which are offered on merit to students with excellent academics. These can include academic scholarships and financial support to cover the cost of living.
Mentioned below are some of the popular scholarships available to Indian students:
| Scholarship Type | Scholarship Name | Financial Award | Course Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit-based | International Freshman Merit Scholarship | USD 5,000-USD 9,000 (INR 4.46 L-INR 8.03 L) | UG |
| Merit-based | International Transfer Merit Scholarship | USD 5,000 (INR 4.46 L) per academic year | UG |
| Merit-based | Housing Scholarship | USD 2,000 (INR 1.78 L) per year for on-campus rent | UG |
How to get a Scholarship at the University of Northern Illinois?
- Should be an International Student, paying the overseas fee rate
- Maintain excellent academics, a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale
- Should be fully family-sponsored
- Should have an admission offer in your desired course at NIU
1 USD = INR 89.22
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Yes, Northern Illinois University offer scholarships to support international students. Northern Illinois University offers mainly two types of scholarships to international students; Merit scholarship and Housing scholarship. The award given in Merit and Housing scholarship are given below.
| Scholarship Name | Award (per year) |
|---|---|
| Merit Scholarship | USD 5,000 to USD 9,000 (INR 415,135 - 747,243) |
| Housing Scholarship | USD 3,600 (INR 298,897) |
*USD/INR = 83.03
18 monthsNIU USAStudents Ratings & Reviews
1 Verified Review- 0% students never faced discrimination in this university
Northern Illinois University Placements
As a Northern Illinois University student, you get access to several career-support services, which include counselling, workshops, and help with finding jobs that best match your profile. The university uses the Steppingblocks, a 24/7 online platform, where you can take part in mock interviews, find jobs, and map out your career path.
Northern Illinois University Placement Rate
The university has not officially released placement-rate-related data, as of yet.
ROI After Education
NIU Illinois graduates tend to get a decent return, with average salaries after graduation going above the USD 70,000 mark. Here is how the average salary at NIU compares with the investment in tuition costs.
| Tuition Fees (Investment) | Average Salary (ROI) |
|---|---|
| USD 10,742 (INR 9.58 L) | USD 72,346 (INR 64.54 L) |
Source: NIU
1 USD = INR 89.22
Northern Illinois University Fees
As an Indian student, you can expect to spend on average around USD 10,742 (INR 9.58 L) for undergraduate and USD 921 (INR 82.1 K) per hour as the Northern Illinois University Fees for graduate courses. NIU Law costs around USD 17,376 (INR 15.5 L) per hour in tuition alone.
Cost of Living - NIU
Given below is a breakdown of the average costs you can expect to pay as an Indian student:
|
Component |
Cost of Living - UG |
Cost of Living- PG |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition |
USD 10,742 |
USD 9,304 |
|
Fees |
USD 3,050 |
USD 3,494 |
|
Loan Fees |
USD 72 |
USD 178 |
|
Food and Rent |
USD 14,680 |
USD 16,374 |
|
Transportation |
USD 1,140 |
USD 3,398 |
|
Books and Supplies |
USD 1,200 |
USD 1,188 |
|
Personal Expenses |
USD 1,600 |
USD 1,600 |
|
Total |
USD 32,484 (INR 28.99 L) |
USD 35,536 (INR 31.7 L) |
1 USD = INR 89.25
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(10 courses) | INR 9 L - 27 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above, Duolingo: 115 & Above, GRE, GMAT |
MBA/PGDM(4 courses) | INR 13 L - 47 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo, GMAT, GRE |
B.E. / B.Tech(2 courses) | INR 11 L - 17 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
M.A.(3 courses) | INR 13 L - 27 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above, Duolingo: 115 & Above, GRE |
B.Sc.(1 course) | INR 11 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
MPA(1 course) | INR 18 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
BBA(1 course) | INR 11 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
B.J.M.C.(1 course) | INR 17 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
International students must meet the below Northern Illinois University requirements for MS in Computer Science admission:
· Must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline
· Official Undergraduate transcripts.
· The Standard GRE Examination (no subject exam required)
· Submit English language proficiency test score
· Two letters of recommendation
· A Statement of Purpose.
· Resume or CV
NIU USAStudent profile
Others
48%
Hispanic
23%
Black
20%
Asian
6%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
Northern Illinois University Notable Alumni
Politicians, Actors, Writers, Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and Professionals of the Medical Industry make up the Notable Alumni at NIU. PJ Fleck, Wood Harris, and Anies Baswedan are among those to have studied at NIU.
Given below is more about them and other Notable names to have pursued their studies at the university.
| Name | Known For | Alumnus |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Harris |
American Actor Known for Movies like Above the Rim and Paid in Full Graduated with a BA in Theatre Arts |
 |
| Dan Castellaneta |
American Actor and Voice Over Artist Gave voice to Homer Simpson of the Animated Series, The Simpsons Pursued a course in Art Education |
.jpg/960px-Dan_Castellaneta_1988_Press_Photo_(3x4_cropped).jpg) |
| Anies Baswedan |
Indonesian Politician Got a PhD in Political Science |
 |
| Maria Kanellis |
American Professional Wrestler and Promoter Has wrestled as part of the WWE, TNA, AEW, and Ring of Honor |
 |
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Northern Illinois University is one of the best universities for higher education in the United States. With over 245,000 alumni members all over the world. The University graduates work in top sectors such as Business Development, Operations, Education, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, and more. Some of the famous personalities that are part of the university alumni network include:
- Robert Zemeckis
- Tammy Duckworth
- Joan Allen
- Kurt Sutter
- Dan Castellaneta
- Wood Harris
- Maria Kanellis
- Anies Baswedan
- Matt Walsh
- Carrie Snodgress
- P. J. Fleck
- Charlotte Kate Fox
- Jose Manuel Diokno
- Samantha Irby
- Markos Moulitsas
- Robin Kelly
College comparison
Compare NIU USA with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 9.3 L - 26.67 L | #301 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 11.44 L - 18.8 L | -/- | |
| INR 13.47 L - 40.37 L | #395 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 14.16 L - 47.38 L | #117 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 15.23 L - 23.82 L | #395 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 12.61 L - 29.55 L | #232 US News, 2026 |
CompareNIU USAStudying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Northern Illinois University Campus
Life at Northern Illinois University is a mix of quality academics and research with a diverse and welcoming academic environment. The university takes good care of its students and provides every important student support service possible, academic or personal, as part of the Northern Illinois University Campus.
Northern Illinois University Campus Location
Its campus at 1425 W. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb, Illinois, is the center of the majority of its operations, with satellite campuses in Chicago, Rockford, Oregon, and Naperville.
Northern Illinois University Campus Life
- You can choose from over 200 student organizations across different areas of interest, which may be academic, sports, cultural, or performing arts, among others. Student Health Advocacy Group, Marketing Club, and the Criminology Club are some of the popular options considered by students
- For Housing, the university maintains multiple residence halls and apartments that come equipped with all the essential facilities you need, be it beds, desks, drawers, community kitchens, laundry, and bathrooms.
- For food, there are plenty of retail dining halls, cafes, markets, and catering services that serve vegan and non-vegetarian food options. Einstein Bros Bagels, Neptune Dining, Glibert East Side Cafe, and Starbucks at the Holmes Student Center are some popular places you can hang out at and enjoy a meal.
NIU USA FAQs
As per one of the former Northern Illinois University graduates; It is a fairly good University, its Education is one of the top schools in the States. I enjoyed my years there. I found many good friends above all many great professors.
Certainly, students at Northern Illinois University can seek employment opportunities while pursuing their studies. If a student is in their last year, they are eligible to apply for internships or jobs. Throughout the semester, the University permits students to work up to 20 hours per week on campus, and during breaks, full-time work is allowed. Students also get the chance to sit as part of on campus placements.
NIU USA
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 4 months ago
Yes, Northern Illinois University campus boasts 17 intercollegiate athletic teams that compete in the NCAA Division I. These teams are known as the Northern Illinois Huskies. In 2024, thirty-one of the student-athletes of NIU earned the 1A FAR Academic Excellence Award. A total of 400+ student-athl
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 months ago
Yes, Northern Illinois University has been ranked #150 in Best Law Schools by U.S. News. Some of the other rankings for other NIU schools and programs are given below:
#61 in Best Public Affairs Programs | #135 in Economics |
#82 in Statistics | #150 in Best Law Schools |
#107 in Political Science | #160 in Mathematics |
#120 in History | #192 in Chemistry |
#131 in English | #251 in Biological Sciences |
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 7 months ago
Northern Illinois University is considered a good university and there are two intakes in a year namely: Fall and Spring. After making a successful application at this university, it takes them two to three weeks for upadating an application decision to the students.
Students can also check the stat
P
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 7 months ago
Yes, international students are not required to pay any tuition fee to apply at Nothern Illinois University at UG level, however students are required to pay an NIU application fee of USD 60 (INR 5.1 K).
B
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 7 months ago
This school does not accept ACT or SAT scores for general admission or merit scholarships. The NIU acceptance rate stands at 71% making it a modertely easy university ti get into. The students are required to meet certain NIU admission requirements.
NIU follows a moderately stringent selection pro
D
Contributor-Level 9
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NIU USA
Northern Illinois University
Aerial View
Altgeld Hall
NIU USALocation
| University City | DeKalb, Illinois, USA |
NIU USACampuses
Barsema Alumni and Visitors Center, 231 N Annie Glidden Rd, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA
Visit official site1120 E Diehl Rd, Naperville, IL 60563, USA
Visit official site8500 E. State St. Rockford, IL 61108
Visit official siteMelanie Costello, Campus Director 1414 North River Road P.O. Box 299 Oregon, IL 61061
Visit official siteNIU USAContact Information
1425 W. Lincoln Hwy.
DeKalb, IL 60115-2828
DeKalb ( Illinois)
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