Admissions Overview
The admission process at Northwestern University has a 7% acceptance rate. The cost to apply is $75. Northwestern University has test optional requirements that focus on each student's unique potential.
Selectivity
7%
Extremely Selective
Application Volume
51,261
Total Applicants
Enrollment Yield
55%
Students who enroll
Admission Requirements
The admission process at Northwestern University has a 7% acceptance rate. The cost to apply is $75. Standardized test score requirements may vary. The admissions team at Northwestern University evaluates each application holistically to assess student potential.
Testing Policy
Test Optional
Students may apply without submitting standardized test scores
Application Cost
$75
Non-refundable application fee
Complete Application Requirements
Required for Admission
High School Transcript
RequiredEnglish Proficiency Test
RequiredPersonal Statement/Essay
RequiredLetters of Recommendation
RequiredOptional (Considered if Submitted)
High School GPA
OptionalStandardized Test Scores
OptionalHigh School Class Rank
OptionalWork Experience
OptionalLegacy Status
OptionalNot Considered for Admission
Other Tests (Wonderlic/WISC)
Not ConsideredNote: Requirements may vary by program or student type. International students may have additional requirements. Contact the admissions office for specific questions about your application.
Test Scores
Test score ranges represent the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students at Northwestern University. About 47% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, with total scores typically ranging from 1,490 to 1,570. Additionally, about 31% of admitted students submitted ACT scores, with composite scores typically ranging from 33 to 35.
SAT Scores
47% of students submitted400
1600
1490 – 1570
200
800
730 – 770
200
800
760 – 800
ACT Scores
31% of students submitted1
36
33 – 35
1
36
35 – 36
1
36
32 – 35
Admission Statistics
51,261 students applied to Northwestern. Of those, 7% were accepted (3,695 students). Of these 3,695 accepted students, 2,038 chose to enroll.
51,261
Total Applicants
3,695
Students Admitted
2,038
Students Enrolled
7%
Acceptance Rate