Northwestern University acceptance rate
Northwestern University has a school-wide acceptance rate of 8%, which makes it extremely selective.
Published tuition & fees: $68,322. But sticker price is rarely what families pay — the net price after aid below is what matters.
SAT & ACT scores for Northwestern University
| Test | Admitted middle 50% |
|---|---|
| SAT Math (mid-50%) | 770–800 |
| SAT Reading/Writing (mid-50%) | 740–770 |
| SAT Total (approx.) | 1510–1570 |
| ACT Composite (mid-50%) | 33–35 |
"Middle 50%" = the range from the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students. Scoring above the 75th puts you toward the safety end; below the 25th makes it more of a reach.
Northwestern University cost & net price after aid
The "sticker price" almost no one pays. Here is the average net price — what families actually pay per year after grants and scholarships — broken down by household income:
| Household income | Avg. net price after aid |
|---|---|
| Under $30,000 | $1,764/yr |
| $30,001–48,000 | $6,099/yr |
| $48,001–75,000 | $7,898/yr |
| $75,001–110,000 | $18,282/yr |
| $110,001+ | $48,777/yr |
Graduation rate & outcomes
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 95% and graduates earn a median of $89,363 about 10 years after enrolling. Outcomes are one honest signal of value — especially read next to the net price above.
Frequently asked questions
What is Northwestern University's acceptance rate?
About 8% (school-wide, U.S. Dept. of Education, June 2026) — extremely selective.
How much does Northwestern University cost after aid?
It varies by income. For middle-income families the average net price is about $7,898/year; see the full table above for your bracket.
Is Northwestern University a reach for me?
Depends on your stats vs. the admitted middle-50% range above. Check free →