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Northeastern University

360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA

Northeastern University award
Northeastern University award
US ranking
position: 841
Tuition & fees per year: $69,289
Acceptance rate: 6.00%
Median alumni salary: $74,155
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1490 SAT, 34 ACT
Entrance difficulty: N/A

What is the accreditation of Northeastern University?

Northeastern University holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which is a widely recognized and respected regional accrediting body. This accreditation ensures that the university meets rigorous standards for academic quality, institutional integrity, and continuous improvement. For prospective students, this means that degrees earned at Northeastern University are recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

In addition to institutional accreditation, many of Northeastern University's individual colleges, schools, and programs have specialized accreditations relevant to their specific fields. These specialized credentials affirm the quality and relevance of the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes within those disciplines. Such accreditations are particularly important for students pursuing professional careers that require licensure or certification.

Choosing a university with proper accreditation is crucial as it affects eligibility for federal financial aid, credit transferability, and overall academic recognition. Northeastern University's accreditation status positions it as a credible institution for students seeking a comprehensive and recognized higher education experience.

What are the admission requirements at Northeastern University?

Northeastern University maintains selective admission standards, requiring applicants to have completed a secondary school education with a general educational development (GED) certificate accepted. Prospective students must submit a secondary school record along with their application, and a minimum grade point average is mandatory. Letters of recommendation are also an essential part of the application process, reflecting the university's expectation for demonstrated academic and personal qualities.

English proficiency must be proven through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which is compulsory for non-native speakers, while submission of additional standardized test scores is recommended but not strictly required. The institution does not operate an open admission policy, emphasizing selectivity in its enrollment.

Credit transfer opportunities exist through acceptance of previous college credits and Advanced Placement (AP) credits, allowing some flexibility for students who have completed applicable coursework prior to admission.

The academic credentials of admitted students are notably strong. The average SAT score stands at 1490, placing admitted candidates in the top 5% nationally. This score typically breaks down to approximately 760 in math and 730 in writing, both reflecting very high achievement levels. Similarly, the average ACT score for enrolled students is around 34, again highlighting the university's commitment to academic excellence among its incoming class.

The acceptance rate at Northeastern University is remarkably low, about 6%, situating it in the bottom 5% of selectivity nationwide, indicating highly competitive admission conditions. With over 96,000 applicants but only around 5,400 admitted, gaining entry requires strong academic records and a comprehensive application.

What are the application fees and waivers at Northeastern University?

Northeastern University requires prospective undergraduate applicants to pay a nonrefundable application fee as part of their submission process. The standard fee amount is $75. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with reviewing applications and is consistent regardless of the admission cycle or program type.

Fee waivers are available to certain applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet specific eligibility criteria. Students qualifying for fee waivers typically include those who attend high schools that participate in the College Board's fee waiver program, are certified by the NACAC fee waiver process, or those who face significant economic hardship. Applicants seeking a waiver must submit the appropriate documentation or request through their high school counselor or an authorized representative.

International students and transfer applicants are subject to the same application fee and have access to similar fee waiver provisions, aligning with Northeastern's commitment to accessibility and support for diverse applicant pools.

What types of ROTC programs are available at Northeastern University?

Northeastern University offers access to ROTC programs through a cooperating host institution. Rather than hosting ROTC branches directly on its own campus, students interested in pursuing ROTC training participate via an affiliated partner university that administers the ROTC unit. This arrangement allows students to engage in ROTC coursework and leadership development while enrolled at Northeastern University, albeit through the facilities and programs of the cooperating institution.

What are the requirements for transfer students at Northeastern University?

Northeastern University permits transfer students to enroll in the fall and spring terms, offering flexibility for those looking to join during these periods. The university accepts transfer credits, which can facilitate the continuation of previous academic work. Although detailed information on credit acceptance policies such as CLEP or DANTES exams is unavailable, it is clear that prior college coursework can be recognized. Prospective transfer students should consider these factors when planning their application, as they may impact the timeline and credit accumulation during their studies.

What types of study abroad programs are available at Northeastern University?

Northeastern University offers a diverse range of study abroad programs designed to enhance the educational experience of its students through global engagement. These programs span multiple academic disciplines and provide opportunities to study in numerous countries around the world.

The university's study abroad options include semester-long academic programs where students can enroll in coursework abroad that aligns with their major or interests. Additionally, Northeastern facilitates shorter-term programs such as faculty-led summer sessions and intensive language immersion experiences, catering to those who prefer to study internationally without committing to a full semester.

Beyond traditional study abroad formats, Northeastern integrates experiential learning through its co-op program, enabling students to gain professional work experience internationally. This practical approach allows students to immerse themselves in global cultures while applying their academic knowledge in real-world environments.

Overall, Northeastern University's study abroad offerings aim to accommodate varying student schedules and goals, from extensive cultural and academic immersion to focused professional development abroad.

Northeastern University Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1490
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 34
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 6%

ACT scores of enrolled students

ACT in range 24-29
ACT in range 30-36

Northeastern University Admissions

Applicants Total: 96,631
Admission Total: 5,459
Enrolled Total: 2,744
Women
Men

Northeastern University Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1490

Median composite ACT score

34

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

7.36%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

23.67%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

Data not available

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

Data not available

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Data not available

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Data not available

Recommendations

Required

Formal demonstration of competencies

Data not available

Admission test scores

Data not available

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Required

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

Yes

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Data not available

Disabilities services

Data not available

Off-campus study

Data not available

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Navy

ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institution

ROTC-Air Force

ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institution

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Data not available

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

No

Preparation at another institution required

No

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

No

Northeastern University Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Data not available

Generally accepts credits

Data not available

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring