How to get into Northwestern University

Northwestern is the oldest chartered University in Illinois and one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. It has one of the largest endowments for a university and both produces and accepts some of the most smart and talented people across the world. 

What is Northwestern University?  

Northwestern University is a chartered university located in Evanston, Illinois, which is located in the suburbs just outside of Chicago. It consists of 11 different graduate, undergraduate, and professional schools. The university’s law, medical, and journalism schools are among the best, which includes Northwestern Hospital. Northwestern University has six undergraduate colleges, ranging from 4-year English degrees to 5- or 6-year laboratory and mathematics degrees.  The university also has a campus in Education City, Qatar 

Testing Scores for Admission

According to the college, the average SAT score is around 1540, while the average ACT score is 35. This means that students should aim to be within the 75th percentile or higher to have a realistic chance of getting in. The average weighted GPA of acceptance is around 4.1, which means that GPA is just as important as the main two standardized tests. 

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Acceptance & Graduation Rate

Provided one has the required test scores and GPA, the acceptance rate at Northwestern University is about 9%. This is a similar acceptance rate to many colleges in this class of university, where it is not an Ivy League, but it is still highly prestigious. Additionally, the graduation rate is a healthy 95%. 

How Are Applicants Rated? 

Northwestern considers test scores and grades as highly important, but the college is also Looking for students to be involved in matters outside the classroom. It also admires those who have a good work-life balance, but test scores are a little more important than extracurriculars. Involvement in the community is the next criteria, so volunteer work should be prioritized as well.                         

Tips to Get Into Northwestern University 

  • Interviews are not a required part of the application process, but they are highly recommended as the admission officers are more likely to accept students they know. If you are applying early decision, you must contact the university for an interview, but for regular decision, you will automatically get contacted. 
  • Sincere and genuine applications will help you get in as college admission officers are looking for students who want to and are able to enhance the image of Northwestern University.         
  • Make sure to maintain a strong academic record, invest in your community, and supplement with extracurricular activities. Doing all three of these in tandem will ensure you have the best chance at getting accepted. 

How Does Northwestern Compare to Other Top Universities? 

Northwestern University and similar to other colleges such as the University of Pennsylvania and Princeton in terms of how hard it is to get into. Boston College is slightly easier to get into. Northwestern has a high yield rate at 63%, which means that 63% of the accepted students who enroll end up attending the university. Want more information about how MIT compared to other schools? Check out the Fiske Guide to Colleges 2023 or US. News & World Reportsโ€™ Best College 2022: Find the Best College for You!.

Are you or will you be attending Northwestern University?

Stock up on gear to show your pride for Northwestern University. Grab this t-shirt, decals for your laptop, or this Northwestern pennant.

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