What is Northwestern University's acceptance rate?

Northwestern University's acceptance rate is 7%, 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 Northwestern?

Admitted students typically score about 1480–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 34–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Northwestern test-optional?

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

Northwestern University Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (7%)

Acceptance rate

1480–1560

SAT (mid 50%)

34–35

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into Northwestern?

With a 7% acceptance rate, Northwestern University is extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into. It enrolls roughly 8,600 undergraduates (suburban setting) in Evanston, IL. 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 1480–1560 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 34–35.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.94. 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 Northwestern's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $65,000 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Journalism (Medill) · Engineering · Theater · Economics

See Northwestern’s supplemental essay guide

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Northwestern admissions FAQ

What is Northwestern University's acceptance rate?: Northwestern University's acceptance rate is 7%, 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 Northwestern?: Admitted students typically score about 1480–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 34–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Northwestern test-optional?: Northwestern University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Northwestern official website
Northwestern 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 Northwestern University’s official admissions site.