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Last updated on 21 Apr '26NIU 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
Northern Illinois University is a public university in DeKalb, Illinois, USA. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), it offers quality programs and strong post-study job opportunities to Indian students. Northern Illinois Uni is recognised for its research by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Climate Change, Quantum Physics, Particle Accelerators, and Data Science are some key areas of research activity at the university. It is also part of the Top American Colleges in 2026, as per Forbes.
The Northern Illinois University Acceptance Rate is 70%. This suggests priority is given to academically bright students. NIU is divided into 7 colleges, one each for Business, Engineering, Education, Health and Human Sciences, Law, Visual and Performing Arts, and Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Northern Illinois University Information
Mentioned below are some interesting facts that are worth knowing about studies at NIU:
|
Fact |
Validation |
|---|---|
|
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.
Also check: Study in USA for Indian Students in 2026
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.
Yes, Northern Illinois Uni does accept a 3-year UG degree from an NAAC institution in India with a grade 'A' or better. If the degree is from another institution, students will need special permission for entry. To know more, check the official Nothern Illinois Uni website.
NIU provides several career-support services to Indian students. This includes personalized career counselling, resume reviews, job search assistance and workshops on US student visa regulations.
Students also get access to the university's job portal (Huskies Get Hired) to look for jobs, internships, or contact employers.
Northern Illinois University Ranking 2026
Northern Illinois University ranks respectably in the latest university rankings given by Shiksha. The Northern Illinois University Ranking in the USA is #217. Globally, the university ranks #822. The university also performs reasonably well in the country-level subject rankings given by Shiksha, as mentioned below:
| Northern Illinois University Course Name | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2026 (World) | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2026 (USA) |
|---|---|---|
| MSN | - | #193 |
| LLM | - | #201 |
| MA | #466 | #143 |
| Others PG | #419 | #142 |
| MS | #578 | #226 |
| BBA | - | #163 |
| MIM | #615 | #153 |
By Other Ranking Bodies
Platforms like US News and Times Higher Education have also ranked the university for the year 2026, as given below:
- US News ranks it #301 among National Universities in 2026
- Times Higher Education gives Northern Illinois University World Ranking of #801 in 2026
#822
#217
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
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.
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 4.7 Lakhs to INR 8.4 Lakhs) |
| Housing Scholarship | USD 3,600 (INR 3.4 Lakhs) |
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.
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 Northern Illinois University courses. 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 popular courses pursued by Indian students at Northern Illinois Uni.
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
We can fast-track your application in a week.
14.3K+ students got admitted through us.
We can fast-track your application in a week.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
No, students with a 3-year UG degree from outside NIU cannot obtain an NIU degree by completing only 1 year at the university.
They'all also have to meet the conditions below:
- Complete 1.5 to 2 years of coursework
- Any other requirement specific to the academic department
Indian students should take min. 12 credit hrs/semester for UG or 9 credit hrs/semester for PG courses at the Northern Illinois Uni. UG students ideally should aim for 15 credits per semester to graduate in 4 yrs.
Contact one of our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors to know more.
Indian students are allowed to add or drop courses during the 1st week at NIU Illinois via the MyNIU account. Changing course during the 2nd week require permission from department.
Students dropping their course during or later than 3rd week will be considered to have withdrawn from the course.
Northern Illinois University Admission 2026
Indian students can apply via the official university website for NIU Admissions. Students will need to submit academic and personal documents, English proficiency scores, and good scores in competitive tests such as the GRE or GMAT (for some PG courses). The application can be submitted after paying the Northern Illinois University Application fee worth USD 60 (INR 5.6 K) for most PG courses. There's no 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 for Indian Students
- Academic transcripts in English
- Prove English Proficiency
- Completed NIU Application
- Valid passport with a validity of an additional 6 months over the duration of studies
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume or CV
- Letters of Recommendation
Northern Illinois University Undergraduate Requirements for Indian Students
- High School Diploma or Class 12th Completion Certificate with a minimum grade C+ as per the academic standards in the US
- Minimum TOEFL-iBT score of 71, or an IELTS score of 6.0
Northern Illinois University Graduate Requirements for Indian Students
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
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
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.
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 |
NIU USANorthern Illinois University Scholarships for Indian Students 2026
NIU Illinois offers several merit-based scholarships to Indian students with strong academics. This includes financial rewards up to USD 9,000 (INR 8.4 Lakhs) per year. Mentioned below are some popular Northern Illinois University Scholarships for Indian Students:
| Scholarship Type | Scholarship Name | Financial Award | Course Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit-based | International Freshman Merit Scholarship | USD 5,000-USD 9,000 (INR 4.66 Lakhs-INR 8.4 Lakhs) | UG |
| Merit-based | International Transfer Merit Scholarship | USD 5,000 (INR 4.66 Lakhs) per academic year | UG |
| Merit-based | Housing Scholarship | USD 2,000 (INR 1.86 Lakhs) 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 93.39
18 monthsNIU USAStudents Ratings & Reviews
1 Verified Review- 0% students never faced discrimination in this university
Northern Illinois University Placements
Northern Illinois Uni offers several career-support services for Indian students. This includes counselling, workshops, and searching for jobs that best match a student's profile. The university uses Steppingblocks, a 24/7 online platform, where one can take part in mock interviews, find jobs, and map out their 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 10 Lakhs) | USD 72,346 (INR 67.6 Lakhs) |
Source: NIU
1 USD = INR 93.39
Northern Illinois University Fees for Indian Students 2026
Indian students planning for higher studies at NIU pay in the range of USD 10,490 and USD 53,550 (INR 9.8 Lakhs and INR 50 Lakhs) for PG courses. The Northern Illinois University Tuition fees for Indian students interested in UG courses range between USD 12,700 and USD 19,580 (INR 11.86 Lakhs and INR 18.3 Lakhs) per year, based on the course.
NIU Cost of Attendance for Indian Students 2026
Mentioned below is a breakdown of the average cost of living for Indian students at Northern Illinois Uni:
| Expense Type | Annual Cost (UG) | Annual Cost (PG) |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | USD 3,390 | USD 1,746 to USD 3,494 |
| Loan Fees | USD 74 | USD 178 |
| Living Expenses | USD 15,046 | USD 16,374 |
| Travel | USD 2,160 | USD 3,398 |
| Books & Supplies | USD 632 | USD 1,188 |
| Personal Expenses | USD 1,560 | USD 1,600 |
| Total Annual Cost | USD 22,862 (INR 21.35 Lakhs) | USD 24,484 to USD 26,232 (INR 22.86 Lakhs to INR 24.5 Lakhs) |
1 USD = INR 93.39
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(10 courses) | INR 10 L - 28 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 14 L - 50 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo, GMAT, GRE |
M.A.(3 courses) | INR 14 L - 28 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above, Duolingo: 115 & Above, GRE |
B.E. / B.Tech(2 courses) | INR 12 L - 21 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE: 48 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
B.Sc.(1 course) | INR 12 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
BBA(1 course) | INR 12 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
MPA(1 course) | INR 19 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
B.J.M.C.(1 course) | INR 18 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
No, Indian students are usually not eligible for the guaranteed tuition rate at the NIU Uni Illinois. It is only available to new, first-time, degree-seeking students from the US. The guarantee plan allows for a fixed tuition rate at NIU for the four years of UG studies.
The enrollment fee worth USD 155 (INR 14.5 K) is a mandatory cost Indian students need to pay to confirm their spot for the upcoming semester at Northern Illinois Uni. It covers the costs associated with Orientation and Week of Welcome (WOW) programming. Students can pay the same via the MyNIU poral using Flywire.
1 USD = INR 93.58
Indian students pay USD 1,378 (INR 1.3 Lakhs) per semester for healthcare plans at Northern Illinois Uni. The plan is given via UHCSR and provides cover for medicines, emergency services, and mental health services. Students can waive this if they have healthcare of their own.
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 Medical professionals make up the Notable Alumni at NIU. PJ Fleck (American Football Coach), Wood Harris (American Actor), and Anies Baswedan (Indonesian Politician) are among those to have studied at NIU. Mentioned below is more about them and some other notable names to have pursued their studies at the Northern Illinois Uni:
| Name | Known For | Alumnus |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Harris |
|
 |
| Dan Castellaneta |
|
.jpg/960px-Dan_Castellaneta_1988_Press_Photo_(3x4_cropped).jpg) |
| Anies Baswedan |
|
 |
| Maria Kanellis |
|
 |
College comparison
Compare NIU USA with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 9.8 L - 28.08 L | #301 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 13.13 L - 30.76 L | #232 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 16.19 L - 28.3 L | -/- | |
| INR 9.78 L - 25.28 L | -/- | |
| INR 16.24 L - 42.92 L | #283 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 18.47 L - 47.71 L | #198 US News, 2026 |
CompareNIU USAStudying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Northern Illinois University Campus
Indian student life at NIU is a mix of quality academics and research with a 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
The main campus is based at 1425 W. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb, Illinois. The university also operates satellite campuses in Chicago, Rockford, Oregon, and Naperville.
Northern Illinois University Campus Life
- There are 200+ student organizations for Indian students across different areas of interest. Student Health Advocacy Group, Marketing Club, and the Criminology Club are some of the popular ones considered by students
- For Housing, the university maintains several residence halls and apartments. These are equipped with all essential facilities such as beds, desks, drawers, community kitchens, laundry, and bathrooms.
- There are plenty of retail dining halls, cafes, and catering services that serve vegan and non veg food to Indian students. Einstein Bros Bagels, Neptune Dining, Gilbert East Side Cafe, and Starbucks at the Holmes Student Center are some popular ones.
NIU USA
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 7 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 7 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 11 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 11 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 11 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
About the author
Study Abroad Expert
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
Northern Illinois University
1425 W. Lincoln Hwy.
DeKalb, IL 60115-2828
DeKalb ( Illinois)
(For general query)
(For admission query)
(For general query)
(For admission query)
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