Overview
Northland College is a less selective private four-year institution in Ashland, Wisconsin. The school accepts 68.4% of applicants and enrolls 457 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 68.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,201
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,121–1,280
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 22
- Total Enrollment
- 457
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
Northland College accepts applications on a rolling basis, so applying early gives you better housing options and scholarship consideration without the pressure of hard deadlines. Your environmental passion needs to shine through every part of your application since this school centers entirely around sustainability and environmental stewardship on the shores of Lake Superior.
Write your essays about specific environmental experiences, not general concerns about climate change. The admissions committee wants to see how you've already engaged with nature or sustainability, whether through outdoor recreation, environmental justice work, or hands-on research. Mention the college's unique programs like the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute or the opportunity to study climate change directly on Lake Superior if they connect to your goals.
Your grades matter, but Northland cares more about your commitment to environmental action than perfect test scores. Include any outdoor leadership experience, environmental club involvement, or sustainability projects you've started. The school's small size means professors know every student personally, so academic curiosity and willingness to participate actively in discussions count heavily.
Campus culture revolves around outdoor activities year-round and collaborative learning in small classes. Students who struggle here tend to be those who prefer large lecture halls or urban environments. Winter temperatures drop well below zero, and many students spend weekends kayaking, hiking, or cross-country skiing. You'll need genuine enthusiasm for both outdoor adventure and environmental problem-solving.
The college doesn't require school-specific supplements beyond standard application materials, but use your personal statement to explain why you need this particular combination of liberal arts education and environmental focus. Connect your academic interests to Northland's location in the Northwoods and its partnership with the National Park Service.
Financial aid conversations happen early in the process since most students receive significant assistance. Don't wait until after admission to discuss costs with the financial aid office. The school's small endowment means merit scholarships are limited, but need-based aid can make attendance affordable for families across income levels.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $20,780/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $42,491
- Students Receiving Aid
- 32%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 43.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $44,560/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 71.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Northland College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Northland College has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Northland College?
Northland College uses rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Students are encouraged to apply early for the best consideration for financial aid and housing.
Does Northland College accept transfer students?
Yes, Northland College welcomes transfer students. The college evaluates transfer credits on a course-by-course basis and accepts credits from regionally accredited institutions.
What GPA do you need to get into Northland College?
Northland College does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The admissions process considers multiple factors including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.