Northwestern application requirements

Hey there! I'm a junior trying to get a head start on my college applications, and I'm really interested in Northwestern. Can anyone help me understand their application requirements? I want to know what I should be doing now to make myself a strong applicant when the time comes.

Hello! It's great that you're getting a head start on your college applications. Northwestern is an excellent school, and understanding their application requirements will help you prepare. Here's a breakdown of what Northwestern typically requires:

1. Common Application or Coalition Application: Northwestern accepts both of these application platforms. Be sure to choose the one that works best for you. Regardless of the platform, you'll need to complete all the required sections, including personal information, educational history, extracurricular activities, and essay. While most of these sections are quite straightforward, for tips on how to craft a stellar personal statement, you may want to check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-common-application-essays

2. Northwestern Supplement Essays: In addition to the general application essay, you'll need to submit supplemental essays specific to Northwestern. You can get detailed guidance on how to tackle their current prompts on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-northwestern-university-essays

3. High School Transcripts: Your high school transcripts should be sent directly from your school to Northwestern. Make sure to maintain a strong GPA in rigorous coursework, as academic achievement is perhaps the most crucial factor in your application to Northwestern.

4. Letters of Recommendation: Northwestern usually requires two recommendation letters from teachers familiar with your academic work. They prefer recommendations from teachers in core subjects (math, science, English, social studies, or languages), who taught you during your junior or senior year. They also require a recommendation from your high school counselor.

5. Standardized Test Scores: Northwestern implemented a test-optional policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which they have kept for subsequent application cycles. However, at such a selective school, you generally want to demonstrate your strengths in as many ways as possible, so submitting an SAT or ACT score would likely still be a good idea. For detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional

6. Extracurricular Activities: Northwestern looks for well-rounded students who are involved in various extracurricular activities. These can include clubs, sports, volunteer work, internships, or part-time jobs. A strong applicant will have a mix of activities that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and dedication to their passions.

Now that you know the requirements, here are some tips to make yourself a stronger applicant:

- Continue to challenge yourself academically by taking rigorous courses and maintaining a high GPA.

- Get involved in activities you're passionate about and aim for leadership roles where possible.

- Begin drafting your Common Application or Coalition Application essays, as well as the Northwestern Supplemental Essays. Start early and edit thoroughly. If you want help editing your essays, remember that CollegeVine offers both a free peer essay review service, and paid reviews by expert college admissions advisors.

- Build strong relationships with your teachers and counselor so that when the time comes, they can write compelling letters of recommendation.

By focusing on these areas and staying organized throughout the application process, you'll be well prepared to apply to Northwestern. Good luck!