Northwestern University, renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant campus community, sets high expectations for its students. In this article, we’ll explore how these standards translate to Northwestern’s SAT scores and requirements. Be sure to explore our other posts covering Northwestern’s ACT stats and requirements!
What is the average SAT score at Northwestern?
Northwestern’s SAT scores are highly competitive. The average SAT score at Northwestern University stands at 1530, nearing the maximum SAT score of 1600. The 25th percentile for SAT scores at Northwestern sits at 1490, while the 75th percentile reaches an impressive 1570. These figures underscore Northwestern’s commitment to academic excellence and diversity among its student body.
What is the average SAT English score at Northwestern?
Breaking down their average SAT scores, Northwestern’s average SAT English score is 750, with the 25th percentile at 730 and the 75th percentile sitting at 770. This distribution reflects Northwestern’s emphasis on strong verbal communication skills among its applicants.
What is the average SAT Math score at Northwestern?
The average SAT Math score at Northwestern University is 780, with the 25th percentile at 760 and the 75th percentile at a perfect 800. Northwestern values quantitative aptitude alongside verbal proficiency, as demonstrated by these scores.
What are Northwestern’s SAT requirements?
For the admissions cycle spanning 2024–25, Northwestern University maintains a test-optional policy. This means that first-year or transfer candidates applying for fall 2025 entry are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores. However, applicants may choose to submit these scores along with other optional forms of testing, such as Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate scores.
More details about Northwestern’s SAT requirements can be found on their Application Requirements webpage.
What percentage of Northwestern applicants submit the SAT?
Of the admitted applicants for the fall of 2021, 47% submitted SAT scores, while 31% submitted ACT scores. The remaining 22% omitted standardized test scores from their applications. As these percentages demonstrate, Northwestern recognizes the value of various forms of assessment when evaluating applicants’ academic potential.
Should I go test-optional?
Submitting a high SAT or ACT score can only help an applicant’s chances for admission to a competitive college like Harvard. We recommend that any student with the means to do so should take the SAT or ACT: if the test goes well and you achieve a competitive score, it will boost your application, and if not, you can choose to omit the score on your Northwestern application. Giving yourself a chance to perform well will only help, and poor scores can always be left off of a Northwestern application without a disadvantage.
A competitive score is considered to be within or above the 50th percentile range of Northwestern scores. If your scores fall above the 25th percentile of the school’s range, you should consider submitting your scores. If your scores fall above the 50th percentile of Northwestern, we highly recommend that you submit them. Regardless, submitting scores is a personal decision, and you will not be at a disadvantage if you do not submit scores.
Does Northwestern superscore the SAT?
Northwestern does superscore the SAT, assuming applicants have submitted scores from multiple tests dates. Students should not calculate their own superscores but instead submit test dates in full that contain scores they would like admissions officers to consider. Score choice is permitted, so feel free to take advantage of this service if it will help you reflect your best strengths and capabilities.
More information about superscoring and other testing FAQs can be found on Northwestern’s admissions site.
What’s a good SAT score for Northwestern?
Because Northwestern is test-optional, your application is probably best served by scores that exceed their 25th percentile at the lowest end, and ideally scores above their 50th percentile. That said, Northwestern’s admissions officers will not evaluate your test scores in isolation, but rather in the context of all your application materials, from teacher recommendations to grades to extracurricular activities.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 1490 | 1530 | 1570 |
| English | 730 | 750 | 770 |
| Math | 760 | 780 | 800 |
Can I get into Northwestern with a low SAT?
A lower-end SAT score may still be relatively high, considering Northwestern’s standards. Applicants should aim for at least the lower quartile score of a composite 1490 or higher. However, academic achievements and extracurricular activities also play significant roles in admissions decisions, so while difficult, achieving admission to Northwestern with a lower SAT score is possible. Strong essays, teacher recommendation letters, and leadership experience all have the potential to make up for lower-than-average standardized test scores.
When should I take the SAT for Northwestern?
Although we recommend taking the SAT in the spring of your junior year, Northwestern permits Early Decision applicants to submit scores from the October or November test dates, even those after their November deadline. These scores should be self-reported as soon as they are available and no later than December 4. For Regular Decision applicants, tests can be taken as late as December and scores can be self-reported as late as February 12. Read more about Northwestern’s admissions process on their website.
What is Northwestern’s SAT code?
Northwestern’s SAT code for submitting official test scores is 1565.
In conclusion, while Northwestern University values standardized testing as one aspect of the admissions process, their admissions ream also recognizes the importance of considering applicants holistically. Whether or not to submit SAT scores is a decision left to each student, with ample support and resources available throughout the application process. If you’re considering the ACT instead, check out our article about Northwestern’s ACT stats and requirements!
