What is Northeastern University's acceptance rate?

Northeastern University's acceptance rate is 5.6%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for Northeastern University?

Admitted students typically score about 1450–1520 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Northeastern University test-optional?

Northeastern University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Northeastern University Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (5.6%)

5.6%

Acceptance rate

1450–1520

SAT (mid 50%)

33–35

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into Northeastern University?

With a 5.6% acceptance rate, Northeastern University is extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into. It enrolls roughly 17,432 undergraduates (urban setting) in Boston, MA. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1450–1520 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 33–35.
GPA: admitted students average around 4.2. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at Northeastern University's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $67,990 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Computer Science · Engineering · Business · Co-op Program

See the Common App personal-statement guide

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Northeastern University admissions FAQ

What is Northeastern University's acceptance rate?: Northeastern University's acceptance rate is 5.6%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Northeastern University?: Admitted students typically score about 1450–1520 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Northeastern University test-optional?: Northeastern University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Northeastern University official website
Northeastern University on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Northeastern University’s official admissions site.