Clarification: NIU released its guide on what to do if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers enter campus on Jan. 18. 2025, which was reported on by the Northern Star. Despite rising tensions throughout the U.S., there have been no reported sightings of ICE on NIU’s campus.

DeKALB – As tensions rise between federal agents and communities around the country, NIU’s guide on if ICE enters NIU’s campus provides community members guidance.  

The guide starts by explaining what areas ICE is allowed and not allowed to access. Areas such as the Holmes Student Center common areas, Library common areas and the Convocation Center are deemed as public areas and are open for ICE to enter. 

Restricted areas, such as residence halls, classrooms or any buildings that require key card access, are protected to maintain safety. Limited access areas are marked as spaces that are only open for certain areas.

The guide also explained that due to its international programs, the university is required to report certain information about students.

“Due to our international programs, the university must report certain information about students such as F-1 or J-1 visa status to ICE,” the guide reads. “This reporting is routine, and the university must comply with on-site visits to review records when requested.”

Campus community members are encouraged to refer ICE to NIU Police if spotted on campus. Members are also asked not to accept any materials given by federal agents and to direct them to the NIU Police.

It is unclear if the university is expecting any on-site visits at this time, but members of the campus community are being asked to stay composed and avoid any escalation when confronting ICE.

The guide also reminds students to know their rights in the event they are confronted by federal agents.

There have currently been no sightings of ICE on campus.