
5520 108th Avenue, NE, Kirkland, WA 98033, USA


Northwest University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), which is a regional accrediting body recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in areas such as curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student services, which is crucial for students seeking a reputable degree.
In addition to institutional accreditation, certain programs at Northwest University may hold specialized accreditations related to their fields of study, reinforcing the credibility of specific academic offerings. For prospective students, institutional accreditation by NWCCU confirms that credits earned are generally transferable and that the university's degrees are recognized by employers and other educational institutions.
Northwest University requires applicants to have completed a high school diploma or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Submission of secondary school records and a minimum grade point average is mandatory, while the applicant's class rank is recommended but not compulsory. The university does not follow an open admission policy and does not accept dual credit for admission purposes. Additionally, credit for Advanced Placement (AP) courses is accepted.
Applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through a TOEFL score, which is a strict requirement. Other standardized tests are recommended but not obligatory, and some competencies are also suggested to strengthen the application.
Regarding standardized testing, the acceptance rate at Northwest University is relatively high at 88%, placing it in the top 25% nationally for selectivity. However, only about 15% of enrolled students submitted SAT scores, and only 2% submitted ACT scores. Those who do submit SAT scores typically score in the average range, with a mean total SAT score of 1098, which ranks around the 33rd percentile nationally. The breakdown shows average scores of 540 in Math and 558 in Writing.
On the other hand, the mean ACT score reported is higher, at 28, situating students in the top 25% nationally. The ACT score distribution indicates that 67% of enrolled students score below 23, while 33% score below 17. This suggests that the university attracts a diverse range of academic profiles in terms of test scores.
Northwest University requires an application fee to process prospective students' submissions; however, the exact amount of this fee is not publicly disclosed in available information. Applicants should anticipate a nonrefundable payment that covers administrative costs associated with their application evaluation.
Fee waivers are available for certain candidates who demonstrate financial need or who meet specific eligibility criteria. These waivers aim to reduce financial barriers and encourage a diverse range of students to apply. Prospective students seeking a fee waiver typically need to provide documentation or meet guidelines set by the admissions office.
Students interested in fee waivers should contact the university's admissions department directly to inquire about the application procedure for waivers, eligibility requirements, and deadlines. This process ensures that applicants receive personalized guidance regarding their individual circumstances.
Northwest University offers access to ROTC programs through affiliated units rather than hosting its own branch on campus. Prospective students interested in military training and officer commissioning can participate in ROTC by enrolling in programs at cooperating host institutions, which collaborate with Northwest University to provide this opportunity.
Northwest University offers the possibility for transfer students to enroll during the fall and spring terms. Prospective transfer students have the advantage of credit recognition, as the university accepts credits from previous institutions. This includes acceptance of credits earned through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) for both general and subject-specific exams, as well as credits obtained via the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program.
Northwest University offers various study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs enable students to study in different countries while earning credits towards their degrees. The university's partnerships with international institutions provide access to semester-long and summer study options in locations that complement their fields of study.
Students can participate in faculty-led trips that blend classroom learning with immersive cultural exposure. These programs typically involve travel to several countries where students engage in site visits, attend lectures, and collaborate on group projects. The university also supports individual study abroad arrangements through recognized exchange programs, allowing students to live and learn in a foreign university setting for an extended period.
Northwest University encourages students to integrate their study abroad experience with their academic goals, offering support in selecting programs that align with their majors and career objectives. The university's dedicated office provides advising, pre-departure orientation, and assistance with logistics including visas and housing.
Median composite SAT score
1098Median composite ACT score
28Percent of students submitting ACT scores
2%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
15%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring