Overview
North Central College is a less selective private four-year institution in Naperville, Illinois. The school accepts 60.9% of applicants and enrolls 2,360 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 60.9%
- Average SAT
- 1,130
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,020–1,240
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 25
- Total Enrollment
- 2,360
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
North Central College operates on rolling admissions, so apply early to secure your spot and maximize financial aid opportunities. The admissions committee reviews applications as they arrive, making fall applications particularly advantageous.
Your application will stand out if you highlight specific connections to North Central's programs. The college's actuarial science program partners directly with major insurance companies for internships, while the entrepreneurship program lets students launch real businesses with faculty mentorship. Computer science students work on projects with local tech companies, and the public relations program maintains strong ties to Chicago-area agencies.
North Central requires no supplemental essays beyond the Common Application, but use your personal statement to address why this particular campus appeals to you. Mention specific professors, research opportunities, or the college's emphasis on experiential learning through internships and study abroad programs.
The campus culture centers around small class sizes and direct faculty mentorship. Students here typically want personal attention from professors rather than anonymity in large lecture halls. The college's location in Naperville provides easy access to Chicago internships while maintaining a suburban campus feel.
Consider applying to the Richter Scholar Program if you're academically strong. This honors program provides research funding, priority registration, and special seminars. The application requires additional essays and recommendations, so plan accordingly.
Your letters of recommendation carry significant weight here. Choose teachers who can speak to your classroom participation and work ethic, as North Central's faculty-to-student ratio means professors know their students well.
Financial aid applications receive priority if submitted early. The college offers merit scholarships that stack with need-based aid, making it potentially affordable even with the private school price tag.
Visit campus if possible, especially during their Cardinal Days preview events. Demonstrated interest matters at schools this size, and the admissions team tracks campus visits and engagement with their outreach.
Your extracurricular activities should show sustained commitment rather than breadth. North Central students typically dive deep into a few activities, whether that's student government, athletic teams, or community service projects.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $23,033/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $44,394
- Students Receiving Aid
- 25%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 71.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $60,123/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 81.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does North Central College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
North Central College has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for North Central College?
North Central College has rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received throughout the admissions cycle. Students should apply early for the best chance of acceptance and financial aid consideration.
Does North Central College offer early decision or early action?
North Central College offers early action with a December 1 deadline. Early action is non-binding, allowing students to receive an admissions decision earlier while still having until May 1 to commit.
How many transfer credits does North Central College accept?
North Central College accepts up to 90 transfer credits from accredited institutions. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at North Central to earn their degree.