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


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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Median composite SAT score
1020Median composite ACT score
19Percent of students submitting ACT scores
88.11%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
3.45%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal 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, Summer