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Last updated: May 31, 2026

Northwestern University

United States · Evanston

Northwestern University

Private School
United States
Country
Evanston
City
23000
Total Students
Private
Status
About the University

Northwestern University overview

Northwestern began in 1855 with 10 students, on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago. It has grown into a respected research institution with 12 colleges and schools. More than 8,000 undergraduates and 13,000 graduate students study here, on a campus that spans three locations: Evanston, Chicago and Doha. Sponsored research comes close to $886 million and grows 11% a year. Northwestern stands out in art and communication, and it gives you opportunities to study these fields in depth academically. Students often say their experience goes beyond what they pursue on campus.

The university is known for its place among the 10 national universities, and its selective admissions reflect that standing. If you apply, know that Northwestern weighs your personal essays more than your extracurricular activities alone.

About the University

About Northwestern University

Northwestern began in 1855 with 10 students, on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago. It has grown into a respected research institution with 12 colleges and schools. More than 8,000 undergraduates and 13,000 graduate students study here, on a campus that spans three locations: Evanston, Chicago and Doha. Sponsored research comes close to $886 million and grows 11% a year. Northwestern stands out in art and communication, and it gives you opportunities to study these fields in depth academically. Students often say their experience goes beyond what they pursue on campus.

The university is known for its place among the 10 national universities, and its selective admissions reflect that standing. If you apply, know that Northwestern weighs your personal essays more than your extracurricular activities alone.

City
Evanston
Country
United States
Type
Private
Number of Students
23000
#30
Times Universities
#42
QS World
#7
National Ranking
84
Quality Score
#31
Shanghai List
Faculties & Programs

Northwestern University faculties and programs

85 results listed

German

Undergraduate4 Years#101 Ranking
$69,375per year

Global Health Studies

Undergraduate4 Years#46 Ranking
$69,375per year

History

Undergraduate4 Years#70 Ranking
$69,375per year

Human Communication Sciences

Undergraduate4 Years#19 Ranking
$69,375per year

Human Development in Context

Undergraduate4 Years#51 Ranking
$69,375per year

Industrial Engineering

Undergraduate4 Years#32 Ranking
$69,375per year

Integrated Engineering Studies

Undergraduate4 Years#32 Ranking
$69,375per year

International Studies

Undergraduate4 Years#101 Ranking
$69,375per year

Italian

Undergraduate4 Years#101 Ranking
$69,375per year

Jewish Studies

Undergraduate4 Years#101 Ranking
$69,375per year
Scholarship Opportunities

Northwestern University scholarships and financial aid

You may apply for and receive merit awards and scholarships from Northwestern University and other organizations to help finance your studies. The information below is meant as a resource as you plan how to pay for your study at Northwestern University. Merit awards of Northwestern University may be partial or full scholarships. They are awarded on a combination of outstanding academic achievement, excellent communication skills, leadership, volunteerism, and community service. Merit award consideration is highly competitive, and the number of scholarships available is limited.

If you want comprehensive information on the scholarship programs, you can reach them through the link below:

Northwestern Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

Northwestern University Exam Requirements

Submitting at least one of the exams below with the required score is a prerequisite for application. The score threshold may vary by program.

Application Process

How to get into Northwestern University

Admission Requirements for International Students

Undergraduate

Application Materials

  • Common App, Coalition Application, or QuestBridge App
  • Application Fee
  • School Report
  • Teacher Evaluations
  • Official Transcripts from Secondary School
  • Mid-Year Report

Academic Requirements

  • Successful completion of basic education
  • High School Diploma
  • Certificate in English Proficiency (for students whose first language is not English)
    • A certificate in English proficiency from an internationally recognized proficiency test such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic.
  • High Grade Point Average
  • SAT or ACT Standardized Test Score
  • Supplemental Application Essays

Please note that AP and IB exam scores count as additional pieces of academic information. They can help the university understand how prepared you are and how well you may handle college level work. AP and IB exam scores do not guarantee admission to Northwestern University.

Graduate

  • Bachelor's Degree Diploma
  • High Grade Point Average
  • Official transcripts of the courses you took during your college or university education
  • Work experience may be required for certain programs
  • Certificate in English Proficiency (for students whose first language is not English)
    • A certificate in English proficiency from an internationally recognized proficiency test such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT.
  • A GRE or GMAT exam score may be required, in line with the specific admission requirements of certain programs.

Application Deadlines

OCAK2027
Application deadline
OCAK2027
Application deadline

* These dates are subject to change. Get in touch with our Dream Uni advisors to learn the up-to-date deadlines and all the details about the Northwestern University application process.

Campus

Take a closer look at Northwestern University

Northwestern University's campus sits in Evanston, Illinois, a little north of Chicago on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is known for its setting along the lake and for its mix of both historic buildings. The University Library offers views of the lake. The Kellogg Global Hub is a cutting edge facility for the Kellogg School of Management. The Ford Motor Company Engineering Design Center and the Technological Institute hold advanced research and academic resources. Other landmarks include the Weber Arch, which symbolically welcomes visitors to the university.

Another is the Rock, a boulder that student groups paint for events or to express themselves. The Shakespeare Garden grows plants that appear in Shakespeare's works, and the Dearborn Observatory keeps a telescope for public viewing. The Norris University Center serves as a point for student activities, with dining choices, meeting spots and various services. Overall, Northwestern's campus blends beauty with architecture to foster an enriching environment for education and community involvement.

Campus Life

Northwestern University, in Evanston, Illinois, is known for a student community full of traditions, student clubs and activities. The campus by Lake Michigan gives a backdrop to a range of student engagements. One custom is the yearly Dance Marathon, a 30 hour charity event managed by students and recognized as one of the country’s largest. Another cherished tradition is painting The Rock on campus to promote events or show school pride.

The university's sports enthusiasm shows at Wildcat football games at Ryan Field, where students, alumni and fans back their team wholeheartedly during Homecoming matches. Student groups shape campus life, with over 500 clubs covering interests from academics and professions to cultural and recreational pursuits. The Associated Student Government (ASG) represents student voices, while musical groups like the Northwestern University Marching Band and various a cappella ensembles add melody to campus happenings.

Community building events such as the A&O Blowout concert and the Festival of Lights bring everyone together. They reflect the university's commitment to fostering an inclusive student experience.

Student Profile

Northwestern University has produced many notable alumni across a range of fields. Some of the best known and most accomplished graduates of Northwestern University include: 

  • George R. R. Martin
  • Meghan Markle
  • Zooey Deschanel
  • Cindy Crawford
  • Charlton Heston
  • Ann-Margret
  • Warren Beatty
  • Seth Meyers
  • Kristen Schaal
  • Jerry Springer
  • Zach Braff
  • Robert Knepper
Achievements

Northwestern University awards and achievements

  • 3 Nobel Laureates
  • 8 Pulitzer Prize Recipients

Northwestern University Frequently Asked Questions

Northwestern University Location

Evanston, United States

Northwestern University Contact

Northwestern University Social Media

Follow the university on its official social media channels:

Northwestern University

Take a Closer Look
Northwestern University view 1

How to Get Into Northwestern University

01

In your first meeting with a Dream Uni advisor, your academic background, goals, and expectations are analyzed in detail.

02

By assessing your English level and academic grades, your eligibility for the universities and colleges Dream Uni partners with is determined.

03

The application process is managed meticulously by our professional team, and your acceptance letter is delivered to you.

Why Northwestern University?

Located in Evanston, United States, Northwestern University is known for its academic excellence, distinguished faculty, and remarkably rich history.

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