Northwestern University

Northwestern University admitted 7.7% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s one of the lowest rates in the country. It’s a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1510–1570 on the SAT and 33–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Northwestern University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

• TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from northwestern.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

• What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern's community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?

  Up to 300 words

• We want to be sure we're considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern's community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?

  Up to 300 words

• A brief essay describing the applicant's musical background, interests, and goals. It should include performance experience, repertoire with which the applicant is familiar, training in music theory and history (if applicable), and study in any related areas.

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from northwestern.edu.

The sticker price is about $91,250. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $29,167.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $89,363.

Verified from northwestern.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

• Economics13% of degrees
• Radio, Television, and Digital Communication8% of degrees
• Psychology, General7% of degrees
• Biology, General5% of degrees
• Computer Science4% of degrees
• Neurobiology and Neurosciences4% of degrees

Is Northwestern University test-optional?

For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Northwestern University is optional.

How hard is it to get into Northwestern University?

Very hard. Northwestern University admits 7.7% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1510 to 1570 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.

How much does Northwestern University cost?

The list price is about $91,250. After aid, families pay $29,167 on average.

Is Northwestern University worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $89,363 ten years after enrolling. 96% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.