SAT and ACT Scores For Northwestern University

Northwestern University is among the most selective universities in the United States. In the latest admission cycle (for the Class of 2028), Northwestern received roughly 52,000 applications and offered admission to only about 3,640 students—an acceptance rate near 7%. That means just around 7 in 100 applicants earn a spot, underscoring Northwestern's exceptionally high standards and intense competition year after year.

Northwestern's Early Decision plan is binding. It admits a significant portion of each class (around half of enrolled students often come through ED). Applying Early Decision signals that Northwestern is your top choice and usually boosts admission chances. However, because ED is binding, students should only use it if Northwestern is absolutely their first choice.

Testing policy has evolved. Northwestern was test-optional in recent years, but for the 2025–26 admissions cycle (for fall 2026 entry), Northwestern will require SAT or ACT scores again (with hardship exceptions). In other words, applicants next year must submit test results. Even before this change, nearly all successful applicants who reported scores were at the very top of the national scale, reflecting Northwestern's rigorous academic profile.

SAT Scores

  Recommended Score: 1500

When families are curious about Northwestern SAT or Northwestern average SAT scores, they find that admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1470–1570. This elite band mirrors Northwestern's high academic expectations and means admitted students typically score near the top of the national distribution.

For section detail: the SAT Reading and Writing component (formerly called Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) for Northwestern's admitted students falls around 720–770 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the critical reading, writing, and analytical skills Northwestern expects across all majors.

On the Math portion, Northwestern's middle-50% range is about 750–800. This upper-tier performance signals comfort with advanced algebra, data analysis, and precalculus—skills that Northwestern seeks in both STEM and quantitatively rigorous social science applicants.

If you're wondering about a Northwestern average SAT, aim for the mid-1500s. Northwestern evaluates applications holistically, so scores below 1470 don't automatically disqualify you. But in such a competitive pool, you'll need compensating strengths (like outstanding coursework, unique talents, or leadership impact) to remain viable.

Policy note: Northwestern superscores the SAT. They consider your highest Reading and Writing and Math section scores from all test dates. In practice, this means a weak section can be improved with a retake, boosting how your Northwestern SAT scores are evaluated.

ACT Scores

  Recommended Score: 35

Looking at Northwestern's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 34–35. This implies most admitted students are scoring at or near the top percentile nationally. In other words, Northwestern ACT results cluster in the mid-30s, reflecting the school's competitive applicant pool.

By section, admitted students tend to excel in English (ACT Reading and Writing). The middle 50% for ACT English is approximately 35–36, meaning the average admitted student often scores a 35 or above on this section. These scores demonstrate the strong critical reading and communication skills Northwestern expects.

ACT Math scores at Northwestern are similarly high: the middle 50% falls around 32–35. While there's a bit more spread than English, competitive applicants still show very strong quantitative fluency. Many engineering or economics hopefuls, for example, hit scores in the mid-30s on ACT Math.

Northwestern superscores the ACT just as it does the SAT, taking the highest section scores across multiple test dates. The optional writing section is not required, but applicants may submit it if it strengthens their profile. Using superscoring, you can focus on improving any weaker sections in additional attempts.

If you're estimating a Northwestern average ACT, plan around 35. Given Northwestern's low admit rate, even moving from a 34 to 35 can enhance your profile. Pair high test scores with rigorous coursework, standout essays, and meaningful extracurriculars to maximize your chances.

Admission Numbers

Overall Rating: Extremely Competitive

Here are the applicant and admissions numbers per year for Northwestern University:

Here's the reality: Northwestern's admit rate is only about 7%, with roughly 52,000 applications for about 3,640 spots (around 2,000 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the Northwestern average SAT and Northwestern average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above Northwestern's 75th percentile (around a 1570 SAT or 35 ACT), you're in stronger territory.

That said, Northwestern emphasizes holistic review. Admissions officers weigh coursework rigor, grades, essays, recommendations, and personal qualities. In a pool full of near-perfect transcripts, however, top-tier SAT/ACT scores help confirm to Northwestern that you're ready for the academic rigor. In short, scores aren't everything, but they remain a key part of the competitive signal.

Strategy snapshot: If Northwestern is your clear first choice, applying Early Decision could improve your odds by signaling commitment. Take advantage of superscoring by retaking tests to shore up any weak section. Also balance test prep with maintaining strong senior-year classes and crafting compelling essays. Meet Northwestern's testing bar (target near the top of the Northwestern SAT and ACT ranges) and then win the admissions read with the rest of your profile.