The Institutional Forum (IF) fulfils an important advisory role in terms of the Higher Education Act and the NWU Statute. Specifically, this role is to advise Council on the implementation of the Higher Education Act and national higher education policy, the appointment of members of University Management and Senior Management, NWU policy on race and gender equity, codes of conduct, policy on mediation and dispute resolution, the management of cultural diversity and the promotion of an institutional culture based on tolerance and respect for basic human rights.

The IF comprises 29 members, representing the three campuses.