Admissions Details
- Acceptance Rate
- 7.2%
- Average SAT
- 1,530
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,490–1,570
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 34
- Total Enrollment
- 8,960
Admissions Overview
Northwestern is highly selective with a 7.21% acceptance rate, meaning it rejects more than 9 out of 10 applicants. You need strong academic credentials to compete. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1490-1570 on the SAT or around a 34 on the ACT. These numbers put Northwestern among the most competitive universities in the country. The school seeks well-rounded achievers who can excel in rigorous academics while contributing to campus life. Northwestern particularly values students with demonstrated interest in both intellectual pursuits and creative or athletic endeavors, reflecting its strong programs in journalism, theater, and Division I athletics in the Big Ten.