Scholarships for Incoming Freshmen
When you apply for admission as an incoming freshman, you'll automatically be considered for one of the following merit scholarships:
| GPA Range | Dollar Amount per Year | Total Dollar Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 4.0 | $7,000 | $28,000 |
| 3.90-3.99 | $6,000 | $24,000 |
| 3.70-3.89 | $5,000 | $20,000 |
| 3.50-3.69 | $3,000 | $12,000 |
| 3.25-3.49 | $2,000 | $8,000 |
| 3.00-3.24 | $1,000 | $4,000 |
NIU offers an opportunity for students with a 3.8/4.0 high school GPA to compete for the Presidential Scholarship. Learn more about the Presidential Scholars Program.
If you attended a high school that does not report GPA, or if you earned a GED, you can still be considered for a merit scholarship. Email scholarships@niu.edu for more information.
Learn more about deadlines that affect merit scholarships.
Huskie Legacy Award
When you apply for admission as an incoming freshman, you'll automatically be considered for the Huskie Legacy Award in addition to merit scholarships. This award is given to students whose parent or parents graduated from NIU. There is no deadline for this award. Qualifying students receive the $1,000 award in their first year at NIU.
NIU Partnership Awards
NIU Partnership Awards are given as part of NIU's matching commitment to the state of Illinois' AIM HIGH program for incoming students. Students who file a FAFSA by Feb. 1, and meet the AIM HIGH criteria and the special population criteria will be considered for an award.
Beginning with the fall 2024 entry term, NIU will move from a one-time, $3,000 award to an annual, renewable $1,000 award
- DeKalb County Scholarship ($4,000): Annual, renewable $1,000 award for eligible DeKalb County high school graduates.
- Chicago Public Schools Scholarship ($4,000): Annual, renewable $1,000 award for eligible CPS graduates.
Huskie Spotlight
Take advantage of scholarships—they are many and very real.
Contact Us
Financial Aid and Scholarship OfficeSwen Parson Hall 245
815-753-1395
finaid@niu.edu
For scholarship-specific questions
scholarships@niu.edu