Northeastern Illinois University Announces 19.6% Increase in Full-Time Transfer Students

Northeastern Illinois University is reporting enrollment momentum this fall, highlighted by a 19.6% increase in full-time transfer students. Overall student headcount rose to 5,834, representing a 2.3% increase from last year.

The University’s updated enrollment announcement follows the release of the Illinois Board of Higher Education's First Look – Fall Enrollment 2025–26 publication. The newly released statewide data confirms Northeastern's success in attracting full-time transfer students and underscores the University's growing reputation for offering a high-quality, affordable education tailored to today's learners — students who balance ambition with real-life responsibilities and pursue their goals with purpose and determination. Additionally, Northeastern serves one of the most culturally and economically diverse student bodies in Illinois.

"Our increase in full-time transfer students speaks directly to NEIU's mission," said Northeastern President Katrina E. Bell-Jordan, Ph.D. "Students are choosing NEIU because they see an affordable and supportive path to completing their degrees and launching meaningful careers."

Northeastern credits this enrollment growth to the dedicated efforts of its Recruitment, Admissions, Enrollment, Marketing and Academic Affairs teams. Their close collaboration with faculty and University partners also played a pivotal role in shaping the entering Fall 2025 class. 

Top photo: Northeastern Illinois University students and employees gathered on the University Commons of the Main Campus for the Fall 2025 Welcome Day fair.