As for the cost of attending the university, students should understand that the tuition forms only a portion of the expenses that are involved in the overall cost of attendance. They must plan for several other expenses that accompany the cost of attendance such as lodging, dining, textbooks, supplies, and the cost of living, among others. For students attending the university, the total tuition and fees for one year add up to about $16,311. Other than that, they will need to shell out an amount of $2,400 for books and supplies, $7,365 for room and boarding charges, and $6,309 toward other expenses on average in a year. Therefore, the estimated cost of attendance for one year at NIU is around $32,385, as per the available information. At the university, in-state students will be required to pay an amount of $11,462 toward tuition and fees, while out-state candidates need to shell out $21,161.