Northwestern University
Evanston, United States • Founded 1851 • QS 2027 #45 =
Updated Jun 2026 · Source: northwestern.edu · How we collect data
Overview
Established in 1851, the Northwestern University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Evanston (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Illinois.
This institution also has branch campuses in Chicago, Doha, Washington DC and San FrancisCo. Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Northwestern University (NU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Northwestern University (NU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 173-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 0-9% making this US higher education organization an extremely selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
NU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Northwestern University's campus location, postal address, and admissions contact channels are below.
Academic Details
Below are the institutional metrics for Northwestern University: scale, staffing, and accreditation.
Academic Structures
Below is how Northwestern University is organised academically — the schools, faculties, and units.
Unit 11 items
- Bienen School of Music
- Feinberg School of Medicine
- Kellogg School of Management
- Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications
- Pritzker School of Law
- Robert R. McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science
- School of Communication
- School of Continuing Studies
- School of Education and Social Policy
- The Graduate School
- Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences
Programs Offered
The full set of programmes Northwestern University offers is searchable and grouped by level below.
402 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 85 programmes
Showing 10 of 85.
Master's Degree 137 programmes
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Doctorate 84 programmes
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Professional Doctorate 6 programmes
Certificate 24 programmes
Showing 10 of 24.
Postgraduate Certificate 42 programmes
Showing 10 of 42.
Other Programs 24 programmes
Showing 10 of 24.
How to apply to Northwestern University
Step-by-step guidance for applying to Northwestern University, in five steps.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Northwestern University offers 402 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Each programme at Northwestern University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Get your documents ready
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Apply through the official channel
Apply directly via Northwestern University's online portal at www.northwestern.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Reach out and track your application
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (847) 491 3741. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Northwestern University
Common questions about Northwestern University — answers from its published profile.
How old is Northwestern University?
The institution opened in 1851 (approximately 175 years ago).
Where is Northwestern University located?
Northwestern University is located in Evanston, United States.
Is Northwestern University public or private?
Northwestern University is a private institution.
What is the student enrolment at Northwestern University?
Student enrolment at Northwestern University is around 9,201.
What is Northwestern University's ranking?
It ranks QS 2027 #45 =.
How is Northwestern University organised academically?
The institution comprises 11 academic units.
Is Northwestern University officially recognised?
The institution holds recognition from Higher Learning Commission.
What is Northwestern University's official website?
You can find Northwestern University online at www.northwestern.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
The leading universities in the United States are listed below — useful for sizing Northwestern University against the country's top tier. Top-tier institutions in the United States typically set admissions standards that downstream universities track.
Members of Association of American Universities (AAU)
Other members of Association of American Universities (AAU) are listed below.
Faculties at nearby universities
These universities are located near Northwestern University, listed below for students comparing options by location.
Where Else to Study Liberal Arts
Universities in the United States with Liberal Arts programmes appear below, alongside Northwestern University.
Universities Compared with Northwestern University
These universities are of a comparable scale to Northwestern University.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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