Northern Illinois UniversityGraduate Studies
Total Cost of Attendance: $26,696/yr · Federal Loan Cap: $20,500/yr
Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which takes effect July 1, 2026, graduate students at Northern Illinois University studying Graduate Studies face a maximum federal Direct Loan cap of $20,500 per year.
With a cost of attendance of $26,696/yr, the gap is $6,196 per year ($12,392 total). This is relatively manageable compared to many programs, particularly for in-state students.
Cost of Attendance Summary
| Annual Cost of Attendance | $26,696 |
| Federal Loan Cap (Graduate) | $20,500 |
| Annual Funding Gap | $6,196 |
| Total Funding Gap (2 years) | $12,392 |
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These numbers assume…
- × Full-time enrollment
- × No scholarships or grants
- × No prior federal student debt
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Recalculate for Northern Illinois University →Need to Cover This Gap?
Northern Illinois University Graduate Studies students typically need $12,392 in private loans over 2 years to bridge the gap between federal aid and cost of attendance.
| Lender | Est. Rate Range | Loan Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lender A | 4.99% – 12.78% APR | Variable & Fixed | Coming Soon |
| Lender B | 5.24% – 14.49% APR | Fixed | Coming Soon |
| Lender C | 4.49% – 13.99% APR | Variable & Fixed | Coming Soon |
Rates shown are illustrative ranges and not a guarantee of any specific rate. Actual rates depend on creditworthiness, cosigner status, and loan terms. Check with individual lenders for current rates. Advertising disclosure applies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the federal loan limit for Northern Illinois University Graduate Studies students?
Under the OBBBA (effective July 1, 2026), Northern Illinois University Graduate Studies students can borrow up to $20,500 per year in federal Direct Loans. This is the graduate annual cap. The aggregate lifetime limit is $100,000 for graduate students.
Can I still get a Grad PLUS loan for Northern Illinois University?
No. Starting July 1, 2026, the Grad PLUS loan program is eliminated under the OBBBA. All graduate and professional students are subject to fixed annual borrowing caps ($20,500/year for graduate programs). Students who need additional funding beyond the cap must use private loans, institutional aid, scholarships, or personal funds.
How much does Northern Illinois University Graduate Studies cost per year?
The total cost of attendance for Northern Illinois University Graduate Studies is $26,696 per year. Over the full 2-year program, the total cost is $53,392.
What is the funding gap for Northern Illinois University Graduate Studies?
The annual funding gap is $6,196, calculated as the difference between the total cost of attendance ($26,696) and the federal loan cap ($20,500). Over the full 2-year program, the total gap is $12,392. This is below the national median of $15,563 for Graduate (General) programs.