I'm seriously considering Northern Illinois University (NIU) as an option for my undergraduate studies. But before I dive deeper, can anyone tell me what the overall cost of attendance tends to be? Tuition, room and board — the whole shebang. Also curious about financial aid and scholarship opportunities too. Thank you!
The cost of attendance at Northern Illinois University (NIU) for an undergraduate student can vary based on a number of factors like residency status, room and board options, and personal expenses. The most recent data suggests that for the 2024-2025 academic year, in-state students can expect to pay roughly around $13,248 for tuition and fees. Out-of-state residents pay the in-state rate, as their domestic tuition rate is available to all U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and undocumented students attending a U.S. high school.
Room and board in a traditional residence hall comes to about $14,160 per year. Of course, this can fluctuate depending on the type of accommodations you opt for, such as opting for a single room versus a double, or selecting different meal plans.
Apart from those, you will have to budget for other expenses too, like books and supplies (estimated at about $1,200), and personal expenses which may range from $2,000-$3,000 annually.
When it comes to financial aid and scholarships, NIU offers quite a few options. All incoming freshmen are automatically considered for merit scholarships with their application for admission, and these can go up to $12,000 per year based on GPA and test scores. Some of the scholarships also require a separate application. In addition, the Huskie Pledge Program at NIU covers the full tuition and fees for Illinois residents who meet eligibility criteria.
Then there are need-based grants, loans, and work-study opportunities offered through the FAFSA. I strongly recommend submitting your FAFSA as soon as it opens, even if you think you won’t qualify. It’s the best way to ensure that you have access to the most funds possible.
Remember, the cost of attendance and financial aid can vary and it's important for any prospective student to interact directly with the financial aid office of the university for the most accurate and personalized information. Good luck!
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