
1425 Lincoln Hwy, Dekalb, IL 60115-2854, USA


Northern Illinois University offers undergraduate tuition for full-time in-district and in-state students at $9,792 per year, a rate considered low and placing the institution in the bottom 20% nationally. However, fees for these students amount to $2,714 annually, which is on the higher side, ranking in the top 20%. When combined, tuition and fees total $13,792, a figure that remains relatively low compared to many institutions, reflecting Northern Illinois University's affordability in this regard.
Graduate tuition for full-time in-district and in-state students is slightly lower at $9,090 per year, with no additional fees applied. Part-time undergraduate students in-district or in-state pay $360 per credit hour, which is also a low rate nationally. Part-time graduate students are charged $505 per credit hour, considered average yet still in the lower percentile for graduate programs.
The cost of room and board averages $14,680 annually at Northern Illinois University, which is around the national median, sitting near the top 50% of comparable institutions. The university provides on-campus housing, accommodating approximately 4,446 students, a capacity that ranks in the top 15% nationally for dormitory size.
Books and supplies are estimated at $1,200 per year, a moderate expense that falls below the national median. Taken as a whole, the total expenses for attending Northern Illinois University-combining tuition, fees, and room and board-are competitive when compared to broader American averages, particularly when noting that in-state students attending a four-year public college nationwide face an average annual cost of $25,707.
Northern Illinois University offers a variety of work-study opportunities designed to help students finance their education while gaining valuable professional experience. Eligible students can participate in federally funded work-study programs, which provide on-campus employment options across multiple departments. These positions often involve roles in administrative support, research assistance, library services, and campus event coordination.
The compensation for work-study jobs typically aligns with the federal minimum wage or higher, depending on the position and the student's qualifications. This hourly pay enables students to earn money while maintaining their academic commitments.
In addition to on-campus jobs, Northern Illinois University facilitates internship opportunities that may qualify for work-study funding, offering practical experience in fields related to students' academic and career goals. These internships can be invaluable for building professional networks and enhancing resumes.
International students attending Northern Illinois University may also access certain work-study positions, although eligibility depends on federal guidelines governing their visa status. The university provides resources to help international students navigate these requirements so they can benefit from employment opportunities as permitted.
Total dormitory capacity
4446Institution provide on-campus housing
YesInstitution provides board or meal plan
Data not availableAny alternative tuition plans offered by institution
Data not availableTuition guaranteed plan
NoPrepaid tuition plan
NoUndergraduate average amount
$11,178All
$13,565Undergraduate average amount
$8,107Graduate average amount
$9,165Students awarded Title IV federal financial aid (2023-2024)
Average net price (income 30,001-48,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$9,740Average net price (income 48,001-75,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$12,674Average net price (income 75,001-110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$17,806Average net price (income over 110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$21,307