Northwestern University

At a glance

Admission rate

7.7%

Total (middle 50%)

1510–1570

Undergraduates

9,201

Setting

City: Small

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Test policy

Test optional Applicants may choose whether to send a score.

Northwestern remains test-optional for first-year and transfer applicants in the 2026-27 admission cycle (Fall 2027 entry); applying without SAT/ACT does not affect review. (Verified on the official admissions website on 2026-11-06.)

Policy source: admissions.northwestern.edu

SAT scores

Total (middle 50%)

1510–1570

Reading and Writing

740–770

Math

770–800

Average total

1533

ACT composite (middle 50%)

33–35

The middle 50%: a quarter of admitted students who sent scores scored below the first number, a quarter above the second. The total adds up the two sections' ranges, so it's approximate.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Admissions

Accepts

Common App, Coalition with Scoir, QuestBridgeCommon Application or Coalition with Scoir (no preference); QuestBridge partner; non-refundable $75 fee or waiver.

Application fee

$75

Phone

(847) 491-3741

Source: School's page (admissions.northwestern.edu), checked November 6, 2026

Cost

Tuition

$70,589per year

Average net price

$34,420What students who get federal aid pay on average after grants and scholarships, per year.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Outcomes

Graduation rate

96%

First-year retention

98%

Median earnings 10 years after entry

$104,255

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Degrees and programs

Degree levels: undergraduate certificate, bachelor, post-baccalaureate certificate, master, doctoral, first professional, graduate certificate

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Data by Field of Study