Northern Illinois University Housing: A Comprehensive Guide for Students

Northern Illinois University (NIU) offers a variety of on-campus housing options to suit the needs of its diverse student body. With over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students living on campus, NIU is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and supportive living environment.

Residence Halls

NIU's residence halls provide a traditional college experience, with shared common areas and amenities. Students can choose from a variety of room types, including singles, doubles, and suites. All residence halls are air-conditioned and feature high-speed internet access.

Traditional Residence Halls

• Lincoln Towers: Located in the heart of campus, Lincoln Towers offers traditional double and single rooms with shared bathrooms.
• University Towers: Similar to Lincoln Towers, University Towers provides double and single rooms with shared bathrooms.
• Neptune Hall: Neptune Hall features a mix of double and single rooms, as well as suites. Suites include a private bathroom and living area.

Learning Communities

• STEM-Focused Learning Community: Housed in Neptune Hall, this community is designed for students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
• Global Citizenship Learning Community: Located in University Towers, this community fosters a sense of global awareness and promotes intercultural understanding.
• Freshmen Success Living Learning Community: Exclusively for first-year students, this community provides academic support and social programming tailored to the needs of new students.

Apartments

NIU also offers on-campus apartments for students who prefer a more independent living experience. Apartments range in size from one to four bedrooms and feature fully equipped kitchens, private bathrooms, and living areas.

Chestnut Creek Apartments

• 1-Bedroom Apartments: Suitable for single students or couples, these apartments offer spacious bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
• 2-Bedroom Apartments: Ideal for small groups of friends or family members, these apartments provide two private bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living area.

Neptune Village Apartments

• 3-Bedroom Apartments: Designed for larger groups of students, these apartments feature three private bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, and a living area.
• 4-Bedroom Apartments: The largest apartments on campus, these units are perfect for families or large groups of friends. They include four private bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and two bathrooms.

University Commons Apartments

• 2-Bedroom Apartments: University Commons offers modern 2-bedroom apartments with open floor plans, large windows, and private balconies.
• 3-Bedroom Apartments: Similar to the 2-bedroom units, these apartments feature three private bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, and a living area.

Housing Costs

Housing costs at NIU vary depending on the type of housing and room configuration. The following table provides a general overview of the estimated costs for the 2023-2024 academic year:

Meal Plans

All on-campus residents are required to purchase a meal plan. Meal plans range in price from $2,700 to $4,550 per semester. Students can choose from a variety of meal options, including unlimited meals, block meals, and flex dollars.

Housing Application Process

The housing application process at NIU is competitive. Students are encouraged to apply early to secure their preferred housing option. The application process typically opens in February for the following academic year. To apply for housing, students must:

1. Complete the online housing application.
2. Submit a $200 application fee.
3. Submit an official transcript.
4. Submit a letter of recommendation.

Housing Resources

NIU offers a variety of resources to assist students with housing-related needs. The Office of Housing and Residential Services provides:

• Housing counseling
• Roommate matching services
• Maintenance and repair services
• Emergency housing assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the deadline to apply for housing?
The housing application deadline varies from year to year. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to secure their preferred housing option.

2. How much does on-campus housing cost?
Housing costs vary depending on the type of housing and room configuration. Estimated costs for the 2023-2024 academic year range from $6,490 to $30,490.

3. Are meal plans required?
All on-campus residents are required to purchase a meal plan. Meal plans range in price from $2,700 to $4,550 per semester.

4. What amenities are available in the residence halls?
Residence halls offer a variety of amenities, including high-speed internet access, air conditioning, laundry facilities, and study lounges.

5. What is the roommate matching process?
The Office of Housing and Residential Services offers a roommate matching service to help students find compatible roommates. Students can complete a housing application and indicate their preferences for roommates.

6. What if I have a special housing need?
NIU offers accessible housing options for students with disabilities. Students with special housing needs should contact the Office of Disability Services for assistance.

7. What is the guest policy for on-campus housing?
Guests are welcome to visit on-campus residents, but they must follow the university's guest policy. Guests must be registered with the resident's RA and may not stay overnight for more than three consecutive nights.

8. What if I need to cancel my housing contract?
Students who need to cancel their housing contract must submit a written request to the Office of Housing and Residential Services. Cancellation fees may apply.