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Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Caspari Hall, Office 116, Natchitoches, LA 71497, USA

Northwestern State University of Louisiana award
Northwestern State University of Louisiana award
US ranking
position: 672
Tuition & fees per year: $9,178
Acceptance rate: 94.00%
Median alumni salary: $45,870
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1020 SAT, 19 ACT
Entrance difficulty: N/A

What is the accreditation of Northwestern State University of Louisiana?

Northwestern State University of Louisiana is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees. This accreditation ensures that the university meets established standards of quality and rigor in higher education.

Additionally, various specialized programs within the university hold separate accreditation from relevant professional bodies. For instance, the James Madison College of Nursing maintains accreditation through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), reflecting the program's adherence to national standards in nursing education.

Such accreditations are vital for prospective students as they validate the institution's commitment to academic excellence and can impact eligibility for federal financial aid, transfer credits, and professional certification.

What are the admission requirements at Northwestern State University of Louisiana?

Northwestern State University of Louisiana requires applicants to have completed either a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Prospective students must provide their secondary school records and maintain a satisfactory grade point average, with class rank recommended but not mandatory. Admission to a college program is required, and English proficiency demonstrated by a TOEFL score is mandatory for international students.

While some components like recommendation letters, other test scores, and competency evidence are suggested, they are not strictly required for admission. The university does not offer open admission and does not provide dual credit options. However, credit for prior college coursework and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted.

Regarding standardized testing, Northwestern State University of Louisiana reports a mean SAT score of 1020, placing admitted students in the lower 20% nationally, with a stronger performance in writing than math. The average ACT score is 19, which falls within the bottom 10% percentile. The university has a high acceptance rate of approximately 94%, reflecting a generally accessible admissions policy despite selective academic requirements.

What are the application fees and waivers at Northwestern State University of Louisiana?

Northwestern State University of Louisiana requires prospective students to pay an application fee as part of the admission process. This fee is standard for most applicants and is necessary to process their materials and initiate their consideration for enrollment.

However, certain applicants may qualify for fee waivers depending on their circumstances. These waivers help reduce financial barriers for students who demonstrate eligibility based on criteria such as economic need or participation in designated programs. Students seeking waivers must follow the university's procedures to request one, which typically involves submitting appropriate documentation to validate their eligibility.

The availability of fee waivers reflects Northwestern State University of Louisiana's commitment to accessibility and supporting a diverse student body. By providing these options, the university aims to ease the application process for students who might otherwise face financial obstacles.

What types of ROTC programs are available at Northwestern State University of Louisiana?

Northwestern State University of Louisiana does not have its own Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) branch unit on campus. However, students interested in pursuing ROTC programs have the option to participate through a cooperating host institution that offers such military training and education.

What are the requirements for transfer students at Northwestern State University of Louisiana?

Northwestern State University of Louisiana accepts transfer students for several terms, including fall, spring, and summer semesters. Prospective transfers can benefit from the university's willingness to consider credits earned through various examination programs, such as CLEP (both subject-specific and general exams) and DANTES. Additionally, the institution accepts transfer credits and recommendations from other accredited sources, providing flexibility for students seeking to continue their education without losing progress.

What types of study abroad programs are available at Northwestern State University of Louisiana?

Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers a variety of study abroad options designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs range from faculty-led short-term trips to semester-long exchanges, providing flexibility to accommodate different schedules and academic goals. Students have opportunities to participate in international internships, language immersion, and academic courses that count towards their degree requirements.

The university collaborates with multiple global partner institutions to facilitate exchange programs, allowing students to study abroad while paying their regular tuition. Additionally, there are faculty-directed service learning trips that combine cultural exposure with community engagement projects, broadening students' perspectives beyond the classroom.

For those seeking shorter experiences, Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers summer programs that focus on specific disciplines or regional studies, enabling students to gain international experience within a condensed timeframe. Overall, the study abroad options are structured to provide diverse learning environments that enhance both personal growth and professional development.

Northwestern State University of Louisiana Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1020
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 19
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 94%

Northwestern State University of Louisiana Admissions

Applicants Total: 3,194
Admission Total: 2,994
Enrolled Total: 1,033
Women
Men

Northwestern State University of Louisiana Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1020

Median composite ACT score

19

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

88.11%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

3.45%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

Data not available

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

No

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Recommended

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Required

Recommendations

Recommended

Formal demonstration of competencies

Recommended

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 at a cooperating host institution

ROTC-Navy

ROTC branch unit on campus

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

Yes

Northwestern State University of Louisiana Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Data not available

Generally accepts credits

Yes

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring, Summer