Northwestern University Acceptance Rate for International Students

Northwestern University acceptance rate has been consistently between 7% to 8% for a few years now. It is quite difficult to be a part of this leading university in USA. As per the latest news released by the university, the acceptance rate is estimated at 7.5% for the class of 2028 and 7.2% for the classes of 2026 and 2027. As the university is one of the top 100 universities in USA, international students seeking admission try to understand the Northwestern University acceptance rate for international students to estimate their chances. Generally, the Northwestern University acceptance rate is 7%.

This Story also Contains

1. Northwestern University Acceptance Rate: Overall
2. Northwestern University Enrollment 2026
3. Northwestern Acceptance Rate for Masters
4. How to Apply to Northwestern University?
5. Documents Required for Northwestern University
6. How to Increase the Chances of Admission in Northwestern University?

One must also keep in mind that more than 50% of the admissions are offered in the early decision responses of the university. Hence, Northwestern University acceptance rate early decision eventually benefits early applicants over the regular decision applicants.

Moreover, students must showcase excellent academic performances, above-average standardised test results, skilful resumes, and mustered personal statements to increase their chances for Northwestern University admissions. The university is exceptionally selective and particular in selecting international students. It is highly recommended to achieve a GPA score above 4.1 out of 5.0 as only 7% of the applications are selected as per Northwestern University acceptance rate.

Some of Northwestern University popular courses include Statistics, Chemistry, Economics, Psychology, Neuroscience, Mathematics, and Cognitive Science. The Northwestern University acceptance rate for international students especially these courses is low because these are some of the top 10 courses in USA.

Read the article below to learn more about the acceptance rate of Northwestern University!

Northwestern University Acceptance Rate: Overall

The overall acceptance rate of Northwestern University for international students tends to be 7% on average. The acceptance ratio for the university declined from the previous years. For say, it was 9.2% in 2017 but it is 7.5% in 2028. There is a slight chance that this Northwestern University acceptance rate may reduce more in coming years making it more challenging for applicants to secure a spot.

Year-wise Northwestern University Acceptance Rate

Northwestern University Enrollment 2026

As for the class of 2026, the enrollment report released by Northwestern University includes the following data:

Northwestern University Enrollment for Class 2026

Northwestern Acceptance Rate for Masters

For the years 2023-2024, these Northwestern University acceptance rate trends have been released by their faculty department.

Northwestern University Acceptance Rate for Masters

How to Apply to Northwestern University?

Before applying to Northwestern University for admission, candidates must review the qualifying requirements for their selected courses. As the Northwestern University acceptance rate for international students is quite low at just 6%, students must apply with a complete application checklist before the application deadlines stated by the university.

Application Process for Northwestern University

• Visit the official website.

• Choose the programme of your choice

• Check the entry requirements.

• Fill the application form with relevant information.

• Attach the documents required.

• Pay the application fee.

• Submit the form and wait for the release of the decision.

Northwestern University application fee: All first-year and transfer applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of USD 75.

Documents Required for Northwestern University

The mandatory common documents required to apply at Northwestern University for any course of study are mentioned below:

• Academic Transcripts

• Passport

• English Proficiency scores (IELTS/DET/PTE/TOEFL)

• Personal Statement

• Writing Sample

• Letter of Recommendation

• SOP (Statement of Purpose)

• Work experience Proof (If applicable)

• Financial declaration

• SAT or ACT scores ( for UG course)

• Essays

• GRE or GMAT scores (for PG course)

• Resume

• USA Student Visa

How to Increase the Chances of Admission in Northwestern University?

International students can exercise certain strategies to enhance their chances of gaining Northwestern University admission. To improve the likelihood of being accepted, applicants should aim to showcase outstanding academic achievements, strong standardized test scores, competitive English proficiency results, and notable involvement in extracurricular activities, among other factors.

As the Northwestern University acceptance rate is as low as just 7%, there are few compelling ways to present the university with a strong application that helps international students with the admission process.

• High Academic GPAs: International students who are granted admission generally hold a minimum GPA score above 4.1 out of 5.0 to be strong candidates for undergraduate and graduate courses. This is an unsaid requirement as approximately 7 students are selected per 100 students as per Northwestern University acceptance rate in 2024.

• Good English proficiency Scores: International students whose first language is not English with excellent English test scores are also considered. Some of the acceptable English test scores include IELTS/DET/PTE/TOEFL/CAE.

• Good standardised Test Results: A good ACT or SAT score for undergraduates or an excellent GMAT/GRE score for postgraduates helps in standing out from other applicants seeking admission to the Northwestern University courses.

• Strong Supporting Documents: An innovative statement of purpose that showcases facts about the applicants’ aspirations, goals, experiences, etc including an essay that states why Northwestern University is best for them. Moreover, other documents such as 2 or 3 LORs, an outstanding resume, and educational qualifications help in getting accepted at Northwestern University as well.

• Outstanding Extracurricular Activities: Students who are engaged in some of the extracurricular activities that can showcase their talent, leadership, dedication, and relevancy with the chosen course of study can enhance a candidate's profile.