Amazing news for future international students:

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) has just been ranked #9 in the entire United States — and #1 in Illinois — for Overall Student Experience by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ).
This ranking is based on one of the largest independent surveys of verified college students and recent graduates in the U.S., developed in partnership with College Pulse and Statista.

NEIU earned an impressive Student Experience score of 77.1.

This recognition is a major win not only for NEIU, but for every student who wants a campus that’s supportive, inclusive, diverse, and focused on real-life success. It proves NEIU is one of the strongest universities in the country for students who value community, belonging, personalized support, and career-ready outcomes.

Let’s break down what this ranking means for you.

What “Student Experience” Really Means (and Why It Matters)

Unlike rankings based on test scores or selectivity, the WSJ Student Experience ranking is student-centric, measuring the parts of university life that matter most for your journey and your future.

The ranking evaluates:

• Campus facilities
   
• Social life and campus community
   
• Diversity and sense of belonging
   
• Career preparation
   
• Salary impact after graduation
   
• Services provided to students
   

These categories reflect real student feedback — not assumptions or reputation — which means this ranking shows how students truly experience university life.

Why NEIU Stands Out for International Students

NEIU’s Top 10 ranking reflects the level of support students feel from the moment they apply through graduation and beyond.

1. Support Begins Before You Even Arrive

NEIU’s international team guides you through:

• Admissions
   
• Application questions
   
• Visa support
   

And once your visa is approved, they even offer:

• Airport pickup for new international students
   

This early support is a huge reason NEIU ranks so highly.

2. A Community Where You Truly Belong

NEIU is one of the most diverse and inclusive universities in the Midwest.
Students describe it as:

• Safe
   
• Welcoming
   
• Comfortable
   

It’s a campus where you can be yourself and still feel supported — a major factor in the WSJ’s student-experience score.

3. Free OPT and STEM-OPT Filing

After graduation, NEIU continues supporting you with:

• Free OPT filing
   
• Free STEM-OPT filing
   
• Internship assistance
   
• Career guidance
   

Most universities charge fees for these services. NEIU does not — showing a deep commitment to international student success.

4. Real Outcomes That Shape Your Future

A Top 10 ranking reflects strong outcomes, including:

• Personalized academic advising
   
• Career-ready degree programs
   
• Faculty who are invested in your success
   
• Chicago-based internship and job connections
   

NEIU prepares you for real-world opportunities, not just classroom learning.

What You Can Achieve at a Top-Ranked University

This ranking isn’t just a number — it represents what you can become at NEIU.

Students gain the opportunity to:

• Build confidence and independence
   
• Make lifelong friendships
   
• Earn real-world experience through internships and OPT
   
• Thrive in a diverse, supportive environment
   
• Develop career skills that employers value
   

NEIU gives you the tools to grow personally, academically, and professionally.

Why This Ranking Matters

Being ranked #9 in the U.S. and #1 in Illinois confirms that NEIU:

• Prioritizes student experience at every level
   
• Delivers high-quality support and services
   
• Helps students succeed academically and professionally
   
• Creates an environment where international students thrive
   
• Offers outcomes that matter to students and employers
   

This ranking gives students and parents strong confidence that NEIU is a safe, supportive, high-quality option for studying in the United States.

Why NEIU Could Be Your Best Next Step

If you’re considering studying in the United States, NEIU’s Top 10 ranking shows that you’ll be joining a university that truly prioritizes your experience, growth, and future.

From early application support to airport pickup to free OPT/STEM-OPT filing, NEIU is committed to helping you every step of the way.

Your dreams are welcome at NEIU — and this ranking proves it.

Learn more at NEIU’s international student page.