Frequently Asked Questions

Students and families can refer to the N.U.in 2025 FAQ document for detailed answers to frequently asked questions.

What is The N.U.in Program? 

The N.U.in Program is a unique first-semester experience for a select group of applicants to begin their fall semester studying abroad at one of our international partner locations. They then transition to Northeastern’s Boston campus in January. Students study with other first-year students and earn a full semester of academic credit towards the rest of their time at Northeastern. 

Why was I admitted to The N.U.in Program? 

Admission into The N.U.in Program reflects a student’s strong character and potential to make meaningful contributions to both the program and the Northeastern University community. N.U.in students are recognized for qualities such as academic independence, a willingness to explore new ideas and places, a mature and open mindset, and an adventurous spirit. The N.U.in Program provides well-qualified students with the opportunity to join the Northeastern community and begin their journey with experiential education.

How long has The N.U.in Program been part of Northeastern?

The N.U.in Program began in Fall 2007 with a group of students who studied at Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia. Since then, The N.U.in Program has continued to evolve with the changing needs of Northeastern and our students. The program developed an academic model that allows students to take courses that fulfill Northeastern’s core (NUpath) and/or major requirements in addition to one course of cultural relevance to their specific site.

N.U.in students are pre-matriculated—what does that mean?

A pre-matriculated student has been accepted to Northeastern University with a conditional path toward matriculation. Pre-matriculated students can take courses and earn credits at their N.U.in location through the program’s partner institution before transitioning to Northeastern’s Boston campus after their semester with The N.U.in Program.

Can I be considered for a different Northeastern Global Network Program?

No. Students admitted to The N.U.in Program are reviewed as part of Northeastern’s holistic admissions process. Admission decisions are considered final. For any questions about a student’s admission decision, students can reach out to [email protected]

Can I still graduate in four years if I participate in The N.U.in Program?

Yes. Students in The N.U.in Program can stay on track to graduate within four years by making informed academic choices, just like all Northeastern students. While factors such as changing majors or pursuing experiential learning may extend the timeline, options like summer classes and advanced standing credits provide flexibility. With thoughtful planning and academic advising, students can achieve their graduation goals without delay.

How do I select the location I want to attend?

The site selection process takes place through student’s Application Status Check. Students must first submit their initial enrollment deposit before they can select their site location. Once a student makes their first deposit, they will be able to select from locations for which they are compatible by major, age, and other factors. Please note that space at these locations is first-come, first-served, although all admitted N.U.in students are guaranteed a slot at a location for which they are eligible if they deposit by May 1.

Can I choose a location that is not compatible with my college or major? 

The curriculum offerings at each host institution is carefully evaluated and chosen to align with specific majors. As such, you cannot choose a location that is not compatible with your college or major. The courses taken at our host institutions are comparable to the courses fall-admit students take at Northeastern, so when you arrive on campus in the spring as an N.U.in student, you will be on track to continue within your chosen major. 

How do I find out which N.U.in location is the best academic fit for me?

Student’s Application Status Check and Location Selection portal will show each of the N.U.in locations matched to a student’s major and college. If a potential location is not listed in a student’s portal, this means that the student is not eligible for that location.

In what ways does each N.U.in location differ from one another?

While every N.U.in site shares key similarities—students will take classes with their Northeastern cohort, live in a community with fellow N.U.in students, receive 24/7 support from on-site staff, and participate in activities that immerse them in the local culture—each location offers a unique experience. Differences may include course offerings, housing arrangements, extracurricular opportunities, and the distinct character of the host city. To understand more of these differences, students are encouraged to review the location specific information outlined in their N.U.in portal and to review the N.U.in program location webpages.

How does Northeastern decide which N.U.in locations I am eligible for?

Location compatibility is determined by major, age, and other factors. The locations that students are matched with will offer courses that will support their academic progress in their chosen major or program. Our Academic, Planning, and Integration team ensures the classes in each N.U.in site’s curriculum are appropriately rigorous and meet the academic standards of Northeastern. With these equivalencies determined, our academic offerings meet student’s needs for major requirements and degree progression.

For more information, review the Location Eligibility webpage.

Can I choose a location that is not compatible with my college or major?

No. The curriculum offerings at each host institution are carefully evaluated and chosen to align with specific majors. As such, students cannot choose a location that is not compatible with their college or major. The courses taken at our host institutions are comparable to the courses fall-admit students take at Northeastern, so when students arrive on campus in the spring as an N.U.in student, they will be on track to continue within their chosen major.

How can I change my major?

A student can request to change their major, however, students should keep the following in mind:

If a student decides to change their major before selecting an N.U.in location, they are able to do this in their Application Status Check. Updated N.U.in location compatibility should be reflected in their Application Status Check shortly after the major request has been made.

If a student decides to change their major after selecting an N.U.in location, they are still able to do this in their application status check, however, they will only be able to select a major that is compatible with their chosen location.

What if I am a student in the Explore Program for Undeclared Students? 

Students in the Explore Program for Undeclared Students will have access to carefully selected locations that offer a broad range of courses across academic disciplines. Please note that not every discipline is represented at every site location, so students should do their best to choose a location that aligns with their areas of interest. Visit the N.U.in Location Selection Portal on the Application Status Check for more information on compatible sites. Students may also reach out to the Explore Program directly if they would like to speak to an advisor about their site selection.

If my desired compatible N.U.in location is closed, can I be put on a waitlist?

Once a location has reached capacity, it is considered “closed” and it will no longer be available for a student to choose from in their Application Status Check. When a student submits their deposit, they will be prompted to choose from the available compatible locations. Students will also have the option to put their name on a waitlist for up to 3 locations, but placement on a waitlist does not guarantee a spot. Students should be comfortable with the location they select and deposit for. All deposits are non-refundable.

While uncommon, if a spot becomes available at a student’s waitlisted location, the student will be contacted via email by The N.U.in Program team. The student will have two business days to acknowledge and accept this change. If the student does not reply within two business days, The N.U.in Program will move on to the next student on the waitlist.

Do I need to know a foreign language? 

No. All classes, with the exception of specific language courses, are conducted in English. 

How much does The N.U.in Program cost, and what is included in the program fee? 

Updated costs for the Fall 2024 program will be available in early 2024 on the Costs & Payment Information page.

How can I pay my bill, and what payment options are available to pay The N.U.in Program fee? 

The first and second deposits for the program can be paid through a your Application Status Check. The program fee must be paid in full, or a payment plan must be in place, before you depart for your N.U.in location.

Learn more on how to pay bills and find information regarding payment plans here. 

Am I eligible for financial aid during the fall N.U.in semester? 

Students can view their financial aid package and/or scholarship award letter in their Application Status Check where they can also find their admission letter.

For questions about financial aid awards and eligibility, please reach out to Student Financial Services. 

How will I be supported while I am participating in N.U.in? 

At Northeastern University, the health and safety of our students is our highest priority. The N.U.in Program provides robust support through a combination of resources from both Northeastern University and our partner institutions abroad. This ensures that students receive comprehensive care and assistance throughout their time in The N.U.in Program.

For information regarding key health and safety measures in place for students during their N.U.in experience, please review the “Health and Safety” section of the program location webpages. Additional details and guidance on health and safety measures will be covered during the N.U.in Pre-Departure Orientation over the summer.

If I participate in The N.U.in Program, will I be at a social disadvantage when I arrive on campus in January? 

Northeastern students are always on the move—whether it be for co-ops, study abroad experiences, or mobility opportunities across the global campus network. The N.U.in Program fits in perfectly with this culture, and you are not at a disadvantage by entering in January. 

Due to this constant movement on campus, there is always a Spring New Student Orientation, Winter Involvement Fair, and Welcome Week activities offered each January for all incoming students. The N.U.in Program and Student Affairs also hold welcome events for N.U.in students. Arriving on campus has been likened to a reunion, as students are excited to see each other after forming such close friendships while participating in N.U.in. 

Where will I live when I arrive on campus for the spring semester? 

Just like first-year students entering campus in the fall, N.U.in students are required to live in university housing for their first and second year. During the fall semester students will be prompted to fill out a housing application. Once submitted, Northeastern’s Office of Housing and Residential Life does their best to place students in housing according to their preferences. Students will be placed in residence halls or apartment-style accommodations depending upon availability.

N.U.in students have the ability to live in any of Northeastern’s styles of housing and still have the opportunity to participate in their top choice Living Learning Community.

For more information, review Northeastern’s Office of Residential Life webpage.