The most reliable predictor of success at Northwestern is a strong academic performance at the secondary school level. The mean high school class rank of enrolled freshmen has been at the 94th percentile. Students who have been educated at home are required to submit the results of three SAT II exams in addition to their SAT I or ACT results. The evaluation of your secondary school transcript is an important part of the admission process. In addition, the admission committee makes note of any accelerated, honors, or Advanced Placement courses taken.
Every secondary school is different.
These facts are also considered when admission decisions are made. Northwestern awards credit in nearly all areas for Advanced Placement examination scores of 4 and 5 and for International Baccalaureate higher-level examination results of 5 or higher. Each application is reviewed carefully by several members of our admission committee. To help us make these difficult decisions, we seek information beyond school transcripts and test scores. We take into account your involvement outside of class, as profiled in an activity chart, and read your essays to get a better sense of your interests, thought processes, and writing ability.