NIU’s main campus in DeKalb spans 765 acres, featuring a mix of modern and historic architecture. It includes cutting-edge academic facilities, research centers, and a variety of student amenities. Key facilities include the Founders Memorial Library, Barsema Hall for business studies, and the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology building. The campus also has art galleries, a theater, and the NIU Observatory. Several satellite campuses serve students in other locations across northern Illinois.

There are around 16078 students in the university.

Application for NIU: Fill out the Undergraduate Admissions online application. Application cost: For international students, pay the USD 60 non-refundable application cost. Transcript of Secondary School: Send in your final exam scores and/or high school transcript. Official originals or attested copies that are submitted in their native tongue with an official English translation are required. Evidence of English Language Proficiency: Give one of the official score reports listed below: TOEFL: NIU's TOEFL number is 1559; the minimum score is 71 on the iBT or 527 on the paper-based. IELTS: 6.0 is the minimum total band score. Duolingo English Test: 105 is the minimum score. A minimum score of 48 is required for PTE Academic English. GCE O-level/A-level, GCSE, or IGCSE: A minimum passing score of C in an English course

a) Online Application b) Application fee: 40 $ c) Official High School Transcripts d) Secondary School Transcripts e) Official College Transcripts(If applicable) f) Passing grades equivalent to a U.S. C+ average on all transcripts and/or exam scores g) Official originals and attested copies in the original language. h) Official English translations of academic records from secondary and all colleges and universities attended. i) Proof of English ability j) Proof of financial ability with proper documentation k) Official ACT or SAT score l) English language proficiency TOEFL-80, IELTS-6.5, PTE Academic-53 Requirements may vary for each program. Please visit the program page for specific requirements.

Campus safety is a priority at NIU, with: 24/7 Campus Police: The NIU Police Department operates around the clock. Safe Walk and Ride Services: NIU offers late-night transportation and escort services for students. Emergency Alert System: A robust system to notify students and staff of emergencies via text, email, and other channels.

NIU’s student life is vibrant and diverse, with over 300 student organizations covering interests from professional development to hobbies and community service. The university hosts regular events, including concerts, guest lectures, cultural events, and seasonal festivals, fostering a strong sense of community and school spirit.

NIU offers a variety of on-campus housing options: Residence Halls: Traditional and suite-style halls with furnished rooms, dining facilities, and lounges. University Apartments: Options for graduate students, families, or upperclassmen. Living-Learning Communities: Themed communities where students with similar academic or personal interests live together and participate in group activities.

NIU’s Career Services Office helps students and alumni with job placement and career planning. They offer: Internship Programs: Connections with regional employers to place students in internships and co-op programs. Career Fairs: Regular job fairs that bring employers from various sectors to campus. Professional Development: Workshops on resume writing, interview techniques, and networking.