Northwestern University is known for its rigorous academic programs and competitive admissions process. With a transfer acceptance rate of just 15.27%, gaining admission to Northwestern as a transfer student can be quite challenging. In order to be considered a strong candidate for transfer admission, applicants should aim to have a high GPA of at least 4.09, with an ideal GPA around 4.25. Additionally, submitting standardized test scores may be required, although Northwestern will be test-optional for the 2024-25 admissions cycle.
When applying to transfer to Northwestern University, having a strong academic record is crucial. Applicants should strive to maintain a high GPA in order to be competitive in the admissions process. In addition to GPA, standardized test scores may be considered for admission. For the upcoming admissions cycle, Northwestern will be test-optional, meaning ACT or SAT scores are not required but can still be submitted if desired by the applicant.
The admissions process for transfer students at Northwestern University involves submitting a completed application form, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any required standardized test scores. It is important for transfer applicants to carefully review the admissions requirements and deadlines set by the university in order to ensure a complete and competitive application. Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review of the applicant’s academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. It is important for transfer applicants to showcase their strengths and achievements in their application in order to increase their chances of being admitted to Northwestern University.
| Northwestern Transfer Acceptance Rate & GPA Requirement | |
|---|---|
| Northwestern University accepts 15.27% transfer applicants, making it a competitive process. To transfer into Northwestern, applicants should ideally have a GPA of around 4.25, although the minimum GPA required is 4.09. Additionally, submission of standardized test scores is optional for the 2024-25 admissions cycle, as Northwestern is test-optional for that period. Applicants may submit SAT or ACT scores if they wish, but they are not required for admission. | |
| The stringent GPA requirements and low acceptance rate at Northwestern University indicate the institution’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards and admitting students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. The competitive nature of the transfer admissions process ensures that students admitted to Northwestern are among the best in their field, contributing to a rigorous and intellectually stimulating academic environment. | |
Admission Criteria for Northwestern University Transfer Applicants:
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History of Northwestern University
Northwestern University is a private research university located in Evanston, Illinois. The school was founded in 1851 by nine men who pooled their resources to purchase a 220-acre plot of land along Lake Michigan.
The school was originally named Northwestern University and Industrial School and was later renamed Northwestern University in 1926. The school is home to many notable alumni, including former United States President Barack Obama.
Overview
| Total Faculty | 2,057 |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Undergraduate | 8,542 |
| Part-Time Undergraduate | 834 |
| Programs | 314 |
| Courses | 2,314 |
| Equivalencies | 1,941 outgoing |
Benefits of Transferring to Northwestern University
If you’re thinking of transferring to Northwestern, here are some benefits that you may not have considered:
- Accessibility to world-renowned faculty.
- Be exposed to different teachings through Northwestern’s extensive research facilities.
- Get integrated into a large and vibrant community of scholars.
- Opportunities to study abroad and participate in internships.
- Top-quality education from one of the best universities in the world.
Process for transferring to Northwestern
The Northwestern transfer acceptance rate is higher than many other top schools, making it a great option for students looking to transfer. The process for transferring to Northwestern University is relatively simple. First, you will need to apply. Make sure to include all required materials, such as transcripts and SAT/ACT scores.
Once your application has been reviewed, you will be notified of your admission decision. If you are admitted, you will then need to complete a few more steps before enrolling at Northwestern. These steps include submitting your final transcript and completing a student health form. Once these items have been received, you will be able to officially enroll at Northwestern University!
Northwestern University Transfer Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Requirements
Considered to be one of the top research universities in the nation, Northwestern makes regular appearances in various college-ranking publications.
Both the Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education College Rankings of 2021 placed Northwestern 10th overall, while the U.S. News and World Report positioned them at #9.
Northwestern’s consistent rise in the rankings is in large part due to its status as a top research university in the nation. In 2021, the school announced a historic $886 million in sponsored research funding.
Students at Northwestern are taking part in ground-breaking studies, such as the development of wearable tech that can detect early symptoms of COVID-19, a face mask that cleans itself, and more.
Located in Evanston, Illinois, the Northwestern campus is only a few miles away from Chicago, a city that offers many social and cultural attractions for all types of students.
Sports fans will relish in a city home to many thriving professional and collegiate athletic teams. Students can use the free intercampus shuttle that operates between the Evanston and Chicago campuses.
Known for its emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, Northwestern is indeed a school to consider applying to for transfer students keen on combining multiple areas of interest into a degree program.
Read ahead to learn about the average Northwestern transfer student, what it takes to successfully apply to Northwestern, when to expect an admission decision, and what other reasons might compel a student to apply to this elite university.
Northwestern University Transfer Acceptance Rate
According to the Northwestern Office of Admissions, admission to the institution as a transfer student is quite competitive; usually, less than 15% of transfer applicants are admitted annually.
By Northwestern’s definition, a transfer student should have completed a full year of college coursework by the time they enroll in the fall semester – this means that they must have obtained a minimum of 24 semester hours (or 36 quarter hours) and be in good academic and behavioral standing with the institution they currently attend.
While there are no statistics available for transfer students only, the class of 2025 profile reveals a competitive applicant pool.
With an overall acceptance rate of 7%, Northwestern enrolled 2,086 first-year students in the 2021-2022 academic year, and approximately half of those students were admitted through early decision.
Application Requirements & GPA for Northwestern Transfers
According to the Northwestern Office of Admissions, strong transfer applicants submit a record of coursework that spans a wide range of science and liberal arts courses while maintaining a B (3.0) average.
While there are no statistics regarding the average GPA of an admitted transfer student, the class of 2024 profile shares average SAT and ACT scores for the middle 50% of admitted students (not specific to transfers only).
Admitted students scored between 1460 and 1540 on the new SAT (combined Math and Critical Reading sections) while those who submitted an ACT composite score earned between 33 and 35.
Statistics are not shared for the most recent class of 2025 because Northwestern instituted a test-optional admissions policy for the 2021-2022 year.
There are seven items that transfer applicants must send to be considered for admission – similar to the year prior, applicants may self-report SAT/ACT scores.
Admitted students who decide to enroll in Northwestern will then be required to submit official SAT or ACT scores.
The first required item for admission is a submission of the Common Application or Coalition Application; additionally, the Office of Admissions strongly encourages candidates to complete the “Why Northwestern?” written response included in the application materials.
The next two items are official copies of secondary school and collegiate transcripts, with an applicant’s high school transcript noting the graduation status/date.
The fourth item is a College Report – typically completed by a dean of students – which confirms that the transfer applicant is in good academic/behavioral standing and eligible to continue studies at the institution they currently attend.
The fifth item is the Academic Evaluation, which is used to determine which credits will transfer over to Northwestern upon enrollment.
As mentioned, standardized test scores are optional for submission, and would constitute the sixth required application material; if available, the school recommends that applicants include SAT Subject test results, as well. The final requirement is a $75 nonrefundable application fee.
It is important to note that there are some exceptionalities to the admissions process. The Bienen School of Music, for example, requires all applicants to audition.
Applicants whose primary or first language is not English, or who did not complete secondary school in English are asked to submit official proof of English language proficiency via the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English test.
Northwestern University Transfer Deadline
Those hoping to enroll in Northwestern should plan to submit all required transfer application materials by March 15, prior to the fall semester in which they plan to enroll.
Students who apply prior to the deadline are more likely to receive a decision earlier from the Office of Admissions, though all candidates receive full consideration.
Northwestern does acknowledge that some transfer applicants experience hardships that make it challenging for them to meet the March 15 deadline; for this reason, the Office of Admissions has decided to extend the deadline until April 10 for students whose circumstances hinder them from meeting the March 15 deadline.
This extension is susceptible to change in future years, so transfer applicants should check the school’s webpage for up-to-date information.
Those applying for admission to the Bienen School of Music may have to submit additional application materials, which may have separate deadlines.
Applicants are advised to check the website for the specific school or program to which they intend to apply for the most accurate information.
Northwestern’s transfer acceptance rate
The Northwestern transfer acceptance rate for fall 2019 was 21.5%. That means that out of every 100 applicants, only 22 were accepted. However, keep in mind that the transfer acceptance rate varies from year to year. For instance, in 2018 the Northwestern transfer acceptance rate was 24.9%.
To increase your chances of being accepted as a transfer student to Northwestern, make sure you have a strong academic record. The average GPA of admitted transfer students is 3.7. In addition, take challenging courses and get involved in extracurricular activities both inside and outside of school.
Financial Information
| In-State Tuition | $43,779 |
|---|---|
| Out-of-State Tuition | $43,779 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,842 |
| Federal Loans: Undergrads receiving aid | 35% |
| Federal Loans: Average amount received | $5,922 |
| Scholarships & Grants: Undergrads receiving aid | 54% |
| Scholarships & Grants: Average amount received | $26,868 |
Scholarships and Financial Aid:NU offers financial assistance to its students on the basis of need and not on the basis of merit. We are among a small group of private institutions that continue to meet the full demonstrated institutional financial need of our aid applicants.
What are the transfer requirements for Northwestern University?
Northwestern University requires a number of completed documents for consideration. The table below summarizes the most important pieces of information:
| Admission Item | Required? |
|---|---|
| High School Transcript | Required of All |
| College Transcript | Required of All |
| Essay or Personal Statement | Required of All |
| Interview | Not Required |
| Standardized Test Scores | Required of All |
| Statement of Good Standing from Prior Institution | Required of All |
In addition to the above requirements, Northwestern University also requires a minimum number of credits completed to apply to be a transfer student.
Northwestern University requires a minimum of 24 credits.
What are Northwestern University’s Transfer Deadlines?
Many universities accept transfer applications during each semester. For this reason, we break down Northwestern University transfer deadline by fall, winter, spring and summer.
| Closing Date | Reported Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall Transfer Deadline | March 15 |
| Winter Transfer Deadline | |
| Spring Transfer Deadline | |
| Summer Transfer Deadline |
Waiting until the last minute to finalize your application could result in a silly mistake.
We recommend you complete your application at least 1 week before the required deadline.
In fact, take a full 2 day break from looking at anything related to your application and then come back to look for errors. I bet you’ll find a few ?
When are decision dates for Northwestern University transfer applicants?
If you applied to transfer to Northwestern University on or before the reported deadlines then you should have your decision date by the notification dates in the below table.
| Deadline | Notification Dates |
|---|---|
| Fall Transfer Deadline | July 1 |
| Winter Transfer Deadline | |
| Spring Transfer Deadline | |
| Summer Transfer Deadline |
Note this data is current as of 2019 and to the best of our knowledge this hasn’t changed.
What is Northwestern University’s transfer acceptance rate?
In 2019, Northwestern University received 2069 transfer applicants.
The school accepted 316 students. Therefore, the transfer acceptance rate for Northwestern University is 15.27%.
This indicates how hard it is to transfer into Northwestern University. You can use the free calculator below to predict your chances of getting accepted.
WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES AT NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY?Your SAT ScoreCheck this box if you are not submitting an SAT scoreYour ACT ScoreSelect a scoreCheck this box if you are not submitting an ACT scoreYour GPA*on a 4.0 scale
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Additionally, of the 316 accepted transfer students, 159 students enrolled – that means the yield was 50.32%.
Northwestern University accepts 16 out of every 100 transfer applicants.
How can you afford Northwestern University
Northwestern University costs an average of $N/A. The below vendors all offer private student loans for Northwestern University students to help cover the cost… We have partnered with Edvisors to provide these vendors and keep the offer up-to-date.
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