Northwestern University: 2024 Requirements, Scores & GPAs

This is the go-to guide for getting into Northwestern University. We suggest you read until the end... Not only will we layout the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to Northwestern University, but we’ll also offer creative ways to help your application stand out from the pack. We breakdown Northwestern University statistics better than any article out there and show you how these have changed over time. Also, make sure to check out Northwestern University on CampusReel to see what it’s really like here. If you're interesting in transferring to Northwestern University, the read our transfer guide. You can also use the below calculator to help determine your likelihood of acceptance at Northwestern University

What GPA do you need to get into Northwestern University?

Northwestern University’s average GPA is 4.09. Northwestern University does require GPA. This average GPA means Northwestern University is brutally selective - the most competitive applicants in the world are already applying to the school, in hopes of taking up residence in Evanston, and, somehow, you need to be better. Generally speaking, if your GPA is not at least equal to 4.09 then Northwestern University may be a reach. However, Northwestern University considers the ENTIRE application - we can make up for a weak GPA with more factors that we’ll discuss below. If your GPA is equal to or greater than 4.09, you’re sitting right in the sweetspot.

*BEFORE CONTINUING PLEASE NOTE: GPA and “prestige” DO NOT mean a college is right for you. Northwestern University may seem amazing on paper, but you may hate it... That’s why 700,000 students transfer colleges every year - they end up going to the wrong school. It’s crucial to watch the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can envision yourself on Northwestern University’s campus. These Northwestern University admission statistics do not sufficiently tell you what a college or university is like.

What is Northwestern University’s acceptance rate?

Last year Northwestern University’s acceptance rate was 13.04. However, check out how the acceptance rate has changed over time.

As you can see, Northwestern University is a little easier to get into than last year.

Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into Northwestern University - it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness. Then, use the below data to get a deeper understanding of how your application will compare to the rest of the pool.

Does Northwestern University Require Test Scores?

Northwestern University requires that you either take the SAT or ACT. See the table below for how Northwestern University’s accepted students have performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test scores should you submit. Generally, don’t freak out about taking the test too often. Industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.

Northwestern University SAT Requirements

Northwestern University’s average SAT score is 1480 - this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the below table for a deeper look into how students performed - it’s also very interesting to look at the average test score over time. The trend over time helps give insight into whether Northwestern University is getting more or less competitive.

Northwestern University’s average SAT score is 1480. To be a competitive applicant for Northwestern University your SAT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 1400, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Northwestern University a “target” school (one that you are likely to get into) you should aim for a score of 1560.

Northwestern University ACT Requirements

Northwestern University’s average ACT score is 99. To be a competitive applicant for Northwestern University your ACT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 96, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Northwestern University a “target” school (one that you have a good chance of getting into) you should aim for a score of 102.

How hard is it to get into Northwestern University?

As you can see from the data above, Northwestern University is exceptionally difficult to get into. Not only should you be aiming for a 4.09 but also SAT scores around 1480. Getting into Northwestern University is no easy feat and you will need to set yourself apart with more than just numbers and data. Read on to learn how.

Northwestern University Requirements

Now you know where you need to be for getting into Northwestern University from a grade and test score perspective. Let’s quickly outline what else you’ll need to provide for your application to get reviewed, and then we’ll move onto the most important section: differentiating your app.

How to get into Northwestern University

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting into Northwestern University. Everything you read above will help prepare you for what you need to achieve to have a shot at Northwestern University, but these steps will take you even further in applying that knowledge and differentiating your application.

Main Academic Excellence that is in line with Northwestern University admission standards.

1. Score at least a 1480 on the SAT or 99 on the ACT.
2. Maintain a GPA of at least a 4.09.

Join Extracurriculars that Align with Northwestern University’s Values.

1. Join your school band, a sports team or another group activity. If Northwestern University values music heavily, for example, then try to participate in an organization related to that topic.
2. Volunteer in your hometown. Evanston has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. Northwestern University wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school - they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Evanston area in general.
3. Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics. Northwestern University needs to see past your test scores and grades - they need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test scores - your experiences should demonstrate that.

Prepare Your Application

1. Write a stellar essay that shows Northwestern University something they can’t figure out from the other parts of your application. For a detailed guide on writing the best college essay, check this out.
2. Get teacher recs that speak to your character. If you know what you’re majoring in and include that in your Northwestern University app, try to have at least 1 recommendation from a teacher in that department.
3. Apply Before the Deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to submit their application, and too much can go wrong during this precious time window. Since many students are applying on the last day, it’s possible that Northwestern University’s own system crashes. Don’t risk the added stress this can cause - submit your app a few days early.