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Admissions Overview
High School Diploma
Required
Common App
Accepted
Class Rank
Considered
Credit for AP Classes
Provided
SAT/ACT
Optional
TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo
Required for International Students
College Prep Program
Recommended
Additional Materials
Only for School of Music applicants
7% (40% early)
3.7 - 4.0
1470 - 1570
34 - 35
GPA Requirements
Northwestern University does not have a strict minimum GPA requirement for undergraduate admissions. However, admitted students typically have very high GPAs, ranging from 3.7 to 4.0, with an average GPA of 3.8.
3.8
Average High School GPA
3.7 - 4.0
25th-7th Percentile
SAT Requirements
Northwestern is test-optional for the current application cycle. The SAT scores for admitted students range from 1470 - 1570, with an average score of 1520.
Although SAT scores are optional, we recommend that students aim for a good SAT score of at least 1520 to be competitive in the admissions process at Columbia University.
1520
Average SAT
1470 - 1570
25th-75th Percentile
43%
Students submitting SAT scores
ACT Requirements
Northwestern is test-optional for the current application cycle. The ACT scores for admitted students range from 34 to 35, with an average score of 34.
A good ACT score will still boost your application above the competition and help get you into your dream school. It will allow admissions officers to quickly and objectively compare you to the rest of the applicant pool.
34
Average ACT
34-35
25th-75th Percentile
39%
Students submitting ACT scores
Other Requirements
Besides academic grades, Northwestern has some additional requirements based on the program of study you apply for.
Extracurriculars
Make sure you have extracurriculars relating to your area of study and those that show your dedication over time.
Recommendation Letters
Northwestern University requires one teacher recommendation and one counselor recommendation.
TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo
Required for international students.
