northeastern university essay prompts 2024

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How to Get Into Northeastern: Acceptance Rate and Strategies

June 17, 2024

Anyone who went to college thirty, twenty, or even ten years ago would likely be shocked if you told them that Northeastern University, once viewed as more of a commuter school than a nationally recognized institution, has an acceptance rate in the single digits (the Northeastern ED acceptance rate is much higher). This Boston-based private university was founded back in 1898 and one hundred years later, U.S. News ranked NU as the 162nd best school in the country. What has happened since that time is nothing short of amazing. In 2000, the average incoming SAT was 1157; today it is 1484. The school now rests comfortably among the top 50 universities in the country and receives in excess of 96,000 applications every year. Accordingly, this newfound popularity is a major contributor to Northeastern’s ever-shrinking acceptance rate.

Given that the process of gaining acceptance into Northeastern has become increasingly challenging, we will touch on the following topics:

• Northeastern acceptance rate – Class of 2027
• Northeastern ED acceptance rate – Class of 2027
• GPA, SAT, ACT, and class rank of accepted Northeastern applicants
• Admissions trends from the Class of 2027
• The demographics of current Northeastern undergraduates
• Northeastern’s yield rate
• How Northeastern’s admissions officers evaluate candidates
• Tips for applying to Northeastern
• How to assess whether applying to Northeastern is even worth the $75 application fee (for you)
• Whether Northeastern is transfer-friendly

Let’s begin with an examination of the most recent admissions data.

Northeastern University Acceptance Rate – Class of 2027

Northeastern received 96,631 applications for its 2023-24 freshman class. Of those, 5,459 were admitted for an overall acceptance rate of 5.6%.

However, to get the full picture, it’s important to look at both the early decision acceptance rate (see more below) vs. the regular decision acceptance rate. For the Class of 2027, the regular decision acceptance rate was just 4.7%.

Although Northeastern has not released official Class of 2028 numbers, it is estimated that they received over 98,000 applications.

For comparison, the acceptance rate several years ago was drastically higher:

Northeastern ED Acceptance Rate

In building the Class of 2027, Northeastern accepted 39% of ED applicants. This is higher than the 33% acceptance rate for the Class of 2026, but lower than the 51% clip for the Class of 2025.

NU offers both ED I and ED II, with November 1 and January 1 deadlines.

What GPA do you need to get into Northeastern?

Although Northeastern does not report average GPA, they do report GPA percentiles. Accordingly, 87% of enrolled 2023 freshmen had a GPA of 4.0 or above, 8% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99, and 4% had a GPA between 3.5 and 3.74.

Approximately 1% of students had a GPA under 3.5.

What class rank do you need to get accepted to Northeastern?

Among enrolled 2023-24 first-year students, 70% were in the top 10% of their graduating class, 92% were in the top quarter, and 98% were in the top half.

What is the minimum SAT or ACT score for Northeastern?

The mid-50% SAT range for enrolled Class of 2027 freshmen was 1460-1530. Moreover, 94% of students had an SAT score of between 1400 and 1600.

ACTs were similarly high—the mid-50% percentile was 33-35, and 94% had a score between 30 and 36.

Admissions Trends & Notes – Class of 2027

• The number of applicants has increased by nearly 50% over the last four years.
• ED applications increased by 25% in the 2023-24 admissions cycle, and 50% since 2020.
• 71% of the applicant pool identified as non-white.
• Last year, Northeastern received the most applications from Massachusetts and California (more on that below).
• Approximately 95% of incoming freshmen head to Boston while 2.5% each head to London or Oakland, CA.

Why does Northeastern receive so many applications now?!

Wondering why there is an astronomical jump in applications? One major factor is Northeastern’s focus on pre-professional education as well as its renowned co-op program, which gives students the ability to complete 2-3 full-time, paid co-op experiences before they graduate. Although the program has been around for over a century (!), excellent marketing, student preference, and a stellar post-graduate track record (93% are employed or enrolled in grad school within 9 months of graduating) have helped skyrocket the school’s popularity.

Who Gets Into Northeastern?

Let’s look at the demographics of Northeastern undergraduates:

Geographically, 48 U.S. states are presently represented across the NU undergraduate population. As with all selective colleges, those from lower-populated, more remote areas of the country (e.g. Wyoming, South Dakota, and Alaska) enjoy a boost to their admissions prospects.

The states with the strongest undergraduate representation are:

• Massachusetts
• Connecticut
• Pennsylvania

Northeastern University Acceptance Rate (Continued)

Looking at ethnic identity, the breakdown of students was as follows:

• Hispanic: 11%
• Black or African American: 6%
• International: 14%
• Two or more races: 6%

The breakdown by gender is as follows:

• Female: 56%

Let’s now take a college-by-college look at where/what current full-time undergraduates are studying (most recent data available):

• College of Arts, Media, and Design: 7%
• Bouvé College of Health Sciences: 11%
• D’Amore-McKim School of Business: 22%
• College of Engineering: 15%
• Khoury College of Computer Sciences: 15%
• College of Science: 17%
• College of Social Sciences and Humanities: 15%
• University Programs: 9%

NU’s Yield Rate

Northeastern’s yield rate — the percentage of accepted students who elect to enroll, divided by the total number of students who are admitted — was 50% last year, much higher than the previous year (33%).

Although Northeastern is now on par with other elite private institutions such as Vanderbilt, Rice, and Carnegie Mellon, the current yield rate may be skewed slightly based on the high percentage of the class admitted via Early Decision. Accordingly, NU is still eager to know if you are their first choice, and there is a great admissions advantage to signaling such a leaning.

How Northeastern Rates Applicants

There are five factors that Northeastern ranks as being “very important” to their admissions process: rigor of secondary school record, GPA, standardized test scores, the application essay, and recommendations. Rating as “important” are: extracurricular activities, talent/ability, character/personal qualities, and volunteer/paid work. “Considered” factors are: first-generation status, race/ethnicity, class rank, demonstrated interest, and geographical residence.

In the words of Northeastern admissions officers themselves: “Candidates who bring diverse experiences, perspectives, and interests to our community are identified by the Admissions Committee following a holistic application evaluation.” With a goal of building a diverse and talented freshman class, “the Admissions Committee seeks to enroll students who have been academically successful and who have been actively involved in their school and community.”

Tips for Applying to Northeastern

If you plan on joining the 96,000+ Husky hopefuls for the next admissions cycle, you should know the following:

• There are no interviews offered through the university. As such, you’ll need to use the essay and recommendations to forge a personal connection with an admissions officer.
• Northeastern does consider “ demonstrated interest ” so it is important that you make contact with the admissions office, connect through social media, and visit campus or meet Northeastern reps at a college fair near you.

Does Northeastern have supplemental essays?

• In the 2023-24 cycle, Northeastern did not require any supplemental essay prompts. Therefore, the primary Common App essay takes on an even greater level of importance when applying to the university.

CT Advice: With only one essay to complete for Northeastern, applicants need to channel their efforts into the Common App essay of their choice. For more on the prompts themselves , which might be best to select, and how to begin brainstorming , visit our previous posts.

Should I apply to Northeastern?

With Northeastern growing more competitive each year, you will likely need to possess stellar SAT scores and near-perfect grades, and earn a place in the top 10% of your high school class. Furthermore, applying ED will provide a sizable edge if you find yourself “on the cusp” from an admissions standpoint.

Do I have a better chance of acceptance as a transfer student?

Your odds of acceptance as a transfer student are not as high as applying ED, but about five times better than applying regular decision. For entry in fall 2023, 1,037 students were accepted out of 4,267 applicants, meaning that the transfer acceptance rate is 24%. Here is a sampling of past transfer acceptance rates:

Read more about Northeastern Transfer Rates and Requirements here .

Northeastern Acceptance Rate and ED Acceptance Rate – Final Thoughts

All college-bound teens need to make sure that they formulate an appropriate college list , containing a complement of “target” and “safety” schools. You’ll definitely want to do this in conjunction with an admissions professional (including your own high school counselor).

Ready to get started on your applications? You might consider checking out the following:

• Should You Start College Applications in the Summer?
• What is Demonstrated Interest?
• Do Colleges Look at Social Media?
• College Fair Advice for High School Students
• How to Complete the Common App Activities List
• Application Strategies

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

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Northeastern University Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024 offer a unique opportunity to showcase your individuality. These essays allow you to weave in your experiences, thoughts, and dreams, thereby giving the admissions committee a glimpse into who you are beyond grades and test scores.

As we delve into the nuances of these essays, remember each word you write is a step closer to turning your aspirations of being a part of Northeastern’s vibrant community into reality.

How Many Supplemental Essays Does Northeastern University Have?

A crucial question that looms in the minds of applicants is: How many supplemental essays are required by Northeastern University ? For the academic year 2023-2024, Northeastern University’s supplemental essays do not come in a one-size-fits-all format. Instead, the university offers a flexible approach, allowing applicants to choose one prompt from The Common Application or the Coalition Application .

These platforms provide a range of prompts, each with its unique angle and word limit, ranging from 250 to 650 words for the Common App and 500 to 650 words for the Coalition App. This choice and word count flexibility empower you to select a prompt that resonates most profoundly with your experiences and aspirations.

It’s an opportunity to present a well-crafted narrative that aligns seamlessly with your overall application, highlighting your strengths, character, and potential contributions to Northeastern’s dynamic community.

What are the Northeastern University Supplemental Essays 2023-2024?

Deciding whether to use The Common Application or the Coalition Application is a significant step in the Northeastern application process . Both platforms are widely accepted and offer a range of essay prompts, but they differ slightly in their approach and audience.

Common App Prompts (choose one, 250-650 word limit)

• Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
• Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
• Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
• Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
• Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
• Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Coalition App Prompts (choose one, 500-650 word limit)

• Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.
• What interests or excites you? How does it shape who you are now or who you might become in the future?
• Describe a time when you had a positive impact on others. What were the challenges? What were the rewards?
• Has there been a time when an idea or belief of yours was questioned? How did you respond? What did you learn?
• What success have you achieved or obstacle have you faced? What advice would you give a sibling or friend going through a similar experience?
• Submit an essay on a topic of your choice.

Remember, the platform you choose can subtly influence how you present your narrative, so select the one that feels most natural and conducive to expressing your authentic self. This decision is not just about meeting a requirement; it’s about finding the suitable vessel to carry your voice to the admissions committee.

How to Write the Northeastern University Supplemental Essays 2023-2024?

Writing the Northeastern University supplemental essays for 2023-2024 is an exercise in introspection and creativity. The key is to select a prompt from the Common App or Coalition Application that resonates deeply with your experiences and aspirations.

Remember, these essays are not just about showcasing your writing skills; they are about offering a window into your soul, helping the admissions committee understand who you are and why you would be a valuable addition to the Northeastern community.

Common App Prompts

The Common Application offers a variety of prompts that cater to different aspects of your personality and life experiences. These prompts allow you to showcase your unique story about your background, identity, interests, talents, or significant life experiences.

Each prompt invites you to share a personal story that provides insight into who you are and what you value. The word limit for these essays ranges from 250 to 650 words, giving you ample space to express yourself while challenging you to be concise and impactful in your writing.

The prompts encourage you to reflect on your personal growth, challenges, accomplishments, and the moments that have significantly influenced your life journey.

Understanding Common App Prompts

Understanding the Common App prompts is crucial for crafting a compelling essay. Each prompt has its unique focus and requires a different approach. For instance, when discussing a background, identity, interest, or talent, the emphasis should be on how this aspect of your life has shaped you.

If you’re recounting a challenge or failure, the focus should be resilience and learning. When reflecting on a time you questioned a belief or idea, you must showcase your critical thinking and the impact of this introspection.

Similarly, discussing gratitude or an act of kindness should highlight your emotional intelligence and how these experiences have motivated you. When discussing personal growth, it’s essential to illustrate how specific events have led to a deeper understanding of yourself or others. Lastly, your passion and curiosity should be at the forefront if you write about a topic, idea, or concept that captivates you.

Each prompt offers a unique opportunity to reveal different facets of your personality and life story.

Brainstorming Your Response: Common App Prompts

When approaching the Common Application prompts for your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024, it’s essential to engage in thoughtful brainstorming. This process is about digging deep and reflecting on your life experiences, allowing you to uncover compelling stories and insights to make your essays stand out. Here’s how you can approach each prompt:

• Background, Identity, Interest, or Talent : Reflect on the elements of your life that have significantly shaped who you are. This could be your cultural background, a unique personal identity, a passion that drives you, or a talent that sets you apart. Discuss how these aspects have influenced your goals, perspectives, or relationships. For instance, if you’re a skilled musician, discuss how this talent has shaped your discipline and creativity.
• Challenge, Setback, or Failure : Consider when you faced adversity. This could be an academic challenge, a personal setback, or a failure that taught you a valuable lesson. Reflect on how this experience changed you, what you learned, and how it contributed to your growth. For example, recount how overcoming a learning difficulty improved your resilience and problem-solving skills.
• Questioning a Belief or Idea : Recall an instance when you questioned or challenged the status quo or a long-held belief. This could be a personal belief, a societal norm, or a school policy. Think about what prompted this thinking, your actions, and the outcome. For example, describe how questioning a cultural norm led to a community project.
• Act of Kindness : Reflect on a moment when someone’s gesture – big or small – significantly impacted you. Describe how this act of kindness changed your perspective on life or relationships. For instance, share how a teacher’s encouragement sparked your newfound confidence.
• Personal Growth : Identify an event or realization that significantly changed your understanding of yourself or others. Focus on the journey and the insights gained. This could be a travel experience that broadened your worldview or a volunteering experience that deepened your empathy.
• Engaging Topic or Idea : Think about a subject that captivates you. Why are you drawn to it, and how do you pursue further knowledge? This could be an academic interest, a hobby, or a cause you’re passionate about. Explain why it’s captivating and how it’s influenced your life choices.
• Topic of Your Choice : This is your opportunity to showcase an aspect of your life or personality not covered in other parts of your application. Brainstorm unique experiences or perspectives that highlight something distinctive about you. Perhaps you have a unique family tradition, an unconventional hobby, or a life experience that’s shaped your outlook.

Structuring Your Answer for Common App Prompts

Structuring your response effectively is critical to making your essay impactful. Start with an engaging hook – a compelling statement, anecdote, or question that grabs the reader’s attention. Then, set the scene by providing context for your story. This is where you lay the groundwork for your narrative, giving the reader a glimpse into the background or situation you’re about to discuss.

The body of your essay should delve into the heart of your story, focusing on your thoughts, emotions, and the lessons learned. Be specific and descriptive to create a vivid picture for the reader.

Finally, conclude with reflection. This is where you tie your story back to your application, highlighting how your experiences have prepared you for the challenges and opportunities at Northeastern University. Remember, a well-structured essay tells a story and reveals your ability to think critically and reflect on your personal growth.

Coalition App Prompts

The Coalition Application offers a distinct set of essay prompts for applicants to Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024. These prompts are designed to delve deeper into your personality, experiences, and aspirations.

With a word limit of 500-650 words, these prompts allow you to comprehensively explore and articulate your story. Whether it’s a narrative about a life experience that shaped your character, discussing your passions and how they influence your future, reflecting on a time you positively impacted others, recounting an instance when your beliefs were challenged, sharing a personal success or obstacle, or choosing a topic entirely of your own, each prompt provides a unique opportunity to showcase different facets of who you are.

These essays are a chance to convey to the admissions committee what you have done, who you are, and what you stand for.

Understanding Coalition Application Prompts

Understanding the Coalition Application prompts is crucial for crafting a compelling narrative. Each prompt invites you to share a part of your life story with different focal points.

When telling a story from your life, the emphasis should be on how the experience has shaped or demonstrated your character. If discussing your interests or what excites you, connecting these passions to your personal development and future aspirations is essential. When describing a time you positively impacted others, focus on the challenges faced and the rewards gained. In reflecting on a time when your beliefs were questioned, the key is highlighting your response and the learning that ensued. Sharing a personal success or obstacle is about the journey and the advice you would offer based on your experience. Lastly, if you write on a topic of your choice, this is your chance to present something uniquely compelling about yourself that might not fit into other prompts.

Brainstorming Your Response: Coalition Application Prompts

When tackling the Coalition Application prompts for Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024, it’s crucial to engage in deep reflection and thoughtful brainstorming. This process allows you to uncover meaningful and personal stories that resonate with your unique experiences and aspirations. Here’s a guide to help you brainstorm effectively for each prompt:

• Life-Shaping Experience : Think about a pivotal moment that significantly influenced who you are today. This could be a moment of triumph, a significant challenge, or an event that shifted your perspective. Reflect on how this experience shaped your character, values, or goals. For instance, overcoming a personal fear might have instilled resilience and a new-found confidence in you.
• Interests and Excitements : Identify passions or hobbies that genuinely excite you and delve into why they hold such appeal. Consider how these interests have shaped your identity or influenced your future aspirations. For example, a passion for environmental activism could have steered you toward a career in sustainable development.
• Positive Impact on Others : Reflect on a time when your actions positively impacted someone else’s life. This could range from volunteer work to a simple yet meaningful act of kindness. Consider the challenges you faced in this endeavor and the following rewards or lessons. For instance, mentoring a younger student might have taught you the value of patience and empathy.
• Challenged Beliefs : Recall a situation where your beliefs or ideas were tested. This could be a personal ideology, a cultural norm, or a professional principle. Reflect on how you responded to this challenge and what insights or growth resulted from it. For example, defending a controversial topic in a debate could have deepened your understanding of diverse perspectives.
• Personal Success or Obstacle : Share a story of a significant achievement or a major obstacle you’ve overcome. Focus on the journey rather than just the outcome, and consider the advice you would offer others in similar situations. This could be an academic achievement, overcoming a personal struggle, or achieving a long-sought goal.
• Topic of Your Choice : This is your opportunity to present an aspect of your life or an experience that is uniquely yours and hasn’t been explored in other parts of your application. Think about experiences, perspectives, or aspects of your identity that set you apart. This could be an unusual hobby, family tradition, or experience significantly influencing your worldview.

Structuring Your Answer for Coalition Application Prompts

Structuring your response to the Coalition Application prompts involves careful planning to ensure your narrative is coherent, engaging, and reflective.

Begin with a compelling introduction that sets the stage for your story or discussion. This could be an intriguing anecdote, a vivid description, or a thought-provoking statement that draws the reader in. In the body of your essay, develop your narrative or argument in a structured manner. If you’re telling a story, ensure it has a clear beginning, middle, and end, with each part contributing to the overall message you want to convey. If you’re discussing an idea or belief, present it clearly, followed by your experiences or reflections related to it. Use specific examples and details to bring your story to life and effectively illustrate your points.

Conclude your essay by returning your narrative to the prompt and reflecting on the broader implications of your story or discussion. This conclusion should summarize your essay and highlight the insights you’ve gained and how they relate to your aspirations and potential contribution to Northeastern University.

Remember, a well-structured response not only tells a story or discusses an idea but also reveals your ability to think critically, reflect on your experiences, and articulate your thoughts clearly and engagingly.

Additional Tips Section

When crafting your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024, it’s essential to go beyond the basics of good writing. Think of your essay as a personal interview on paper; it’s your chance to breathe life into your application. Start by ensuring your essay reflects your genuine voice.

Admissions officers seek authenticity, so let your unique personality shine through. Be honest and reflective, sharing real experiences and reflections rather than what you think they want to hear.

Additionally, make sure your essay connects back to Northeastern University. Research the university’s values, programs, and campus culture, and then reflect on how these align with your goals and experiences. This connection demonstrates your interest in Northeastern and helps the admissions committee envision you as part of their community.

Finally, remember the power of storytelling. A well-told story can make your essay memorable and engaging, setting you apart from other applicants. Use vivid details and strong narratives to bring your experiences to life and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Advice on Maintaining a Balance between Creativity and Clarity

Crafting your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024 requires a delicate balance between creativity and clarity. While creative elements can make your essay stand out, clarity ensures your message is understood. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

• Start with a Clear Structure : Before diving into the creative aspects of writing, outline your essay. A clear structure acts as a roadmap, guiding your narrative and ensuring that your creative flourishes enhance rather than obscure your message. Begin with an introduction that sets the tone and introduces your main idea, followed by body paragraphs that delve into your story or reflections, and conclude with a summary that ties everything together. This structure will keep your essay focused and coherent.
• Use Descriptive Language Judiciously : Descriptive language can vividly paint pictures and evoke emotions, making your essay more engaging. However, overuse or misplaced descriptive language can muddle your message. Use it purposefully to highlight your essay’s most important moments or emotions. For example, vividly describe a pivotal moment in your story to draw the reader in, but maintain more straightforward language for less critical parts to maintain clarity.
• Incorporate Metaphors and Analogies Sparingly : Metaphors and analogies are excellent for illustrating complex ideas and adding depth to your writing. However, if used excessively or inappropriately, they can confuse the reader. Use them to clarify your points, not complicate them. A well-placed metaphor can illuminate a concept, but ensure it aligns with your essay’s overall message and tone.
• Balance Storytelling with Reflection : A compelling narrative can captivate your reader, but without reflection, it may fail to convey the depth of your experiences. Balance storytelling with introspection. For every story or example you provide, take the time to reflect on what it means to you and how it has shaped your perspective or character. This balance ensures that your essay is not just a story but a window into your thought process and personal growth.
• Be Mindful of Word Count : Creativity can sometimes lead to verbosity, especially when you’re passionate about your topic. However, it’s essential to respect the word limit. Each word in your essay should serve a purpose. Being concise forces you to think critically about what is essential to your story and what can be left out, leading to a more precise, more impactful essay.

Importance of Proofreading and Seeking Feedback

Proofreading is an indispensable step in the essay-writing process for Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024. It’s not just about correcting grammatical errors or typos; it’s about ensuring your essay is coherent, concise, and free of ambiguity.

A well-proofread essay reflects your attention to detail and your commitment to presenting your best self. It’s also crucial to seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or peers. They can provide valuable perspectives on how others perceive your essay.

Feedback can help you identify areas where your message may not be coming across as intended or your narrative could be more compelling. However, while it’s important to consider this feedback, remember to stay true to your voice and story. Ultimately, your essay should reflect you, not what others think you should be. Balancing feedback with your authentic voice is key to crafting a polished and personal essay.

The Final Polish: Proofreading and Editing Strategies

The journey of crafting Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024 culminates in a crucial phase: proofreading and editing. This stage is not merely about correcting typos or grammatical errors; it’s the art of refining and polishing your essay to ensure it communicates your message effectively and clearly.

Start by taking a break after your initial draft. Approaching your essay with fresh eyes can make a significant difference in spotting overlooked errors or awkward phrasing. Read your essay aloud; this technique helps catch inconsistencies and areas that may disrupt the flow.

Pay attention to the structure and clarity of your essay. Ensure each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a coherent narrative. Be vigilant about wordiness or redundancy, which can dilute the impact of your message.

Remember, every word should serve a purpose in your essay. Lastly, focus on the tone and voice of your essay. It should reflect your personality and resonate with the reader, making your application memorable among the many that the admissions committee will review.

Techniques for Effective Self-Editing

Effective self-editing is a skill that can significantly elevate the quality of your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024. One key technique is to edit in stages, focusing on different aspects in each round.

In the first round, concentrate on the overall structure and flow of the essay. Check if your introduction effectively sets the stage and if your conclusion ties back to the main narrative compellingly.

In the next round, focus on the content. Are your points clear and well-supported? Does each paragraph contribute to the overall theme? Subsequent rounds should focus on language and style. Look for varied sentence structures to maintain reader engagement. Be mindful of your word choice – opt for precision and simplicity over complex vocabulary that might confuse the reader.

Finally, a detailed line-by-line review to catch grammatical errors and typos is essential. This layered approach ensures that each aspect of your essay receives the attention it deserves, resulting in a polished and compelling narrative.

Seeking and Utilizing Feedback Constructively

While self-editing is vital, seeking external feedback is equally essential in perfecting Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024. Choose your reviewers wisely – teachers, mentors, or peers who understand the nuances of college admissions essays can provide invaluable insights.

When receiving feedback, keep an open mind. Constructive criticism is not an indictment of your abilities but an opportunity to improve. Distinguish between subjective opinions and objective advice that enhances the clarity and impact of your essay.

Implement feedback that aligns with your authentic voice and the message you intend to convey. It’s crucial to maintain the balance between incorporating useful insights and retaining your unique perspective. Remember, the final essay should reflect your individuality, not a patchwork of others’ suggestions.

Constructive feedback, when utilized effectively, can transform a good essay into a great one, significantly boosting your chances of impressing the admissions committee at Northeastern University.

Understanding Northeastern’s Admissions Criteria Beyond Essays

While Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024 are a pivotal part of your application, they represent just one facet of the comprehensive review process. Northeastern University adopts a holistic approach to admissions, meaning that every application component is weighed to build a complete picture of who you are as a student and a person.

This approach goes beyond just assessing your academic capabilities; it’s about understanding your character, your passions, and how you might contribute to the Northeastern community.

The admissions committee looks for evidence of intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and a willingness to engage with the world meaningfully. They seek students who excel academically and demonstrate resilience, empathy, and creativity.

This holistic review ensures that students are academically prepared for Northeastern and a good fit for the university’s culture and values. Therefore, while perfecting your essays is crucial, remember that they are part of a larger narrative you present to the admissions committee.

The Role of Academic Performance and Test Scores

Academic performance and test scores are significant components of your application to Northeastern University . They give the admissions committee a quantifiable measure of your academic preparedness and ability to succeed in a rigorous educational environment.

Your GPA, high school curriculum’s rigor, and performance in advanced courses like AP or IB classes are closely scrutinized. These elements demonstrate your dedication to academic excellence and ability to handle challenging coursework.

Test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, while not the sole determinant, play a role in assessing your readiness for college-level work. However, it’s important to note that Northeastern adopts a test-optional policy, allowing students to decide whether or not their test scores accurately reflect their academic abilities.

This policy acknowledges that standardized test scores are not always the best indicator of a student’s potential and allows for a more equitable evaluation process. While vital academic records and test scores are advantageous, they are part of a broader assessment of your capabilities and potential.

Extracurricular Activities and Their Impact

Extracurricular activities are crucial to your application, providing a window into your interests, skills, and personality beyond the classroom. Northeastern University values students who engage in activities that demonstrate leadership, commitment, and a passion for making a difference.

Whether through sports, arts, community service, or clubs, your extracurricular involvement can significantly impact your application. These activities showcase your ability to balance academic responsibilities with other interests, highlighting qualities like time management, teamwork, and initiative.

They also offer insights into your potential contributions to the Northeastern community. For instance, a student who has led community service initiatives might bring a strong sense of social responsibility to campus. At the same time, someone involved in the arts could contribute to the university’s cultural life.

The depth of your involvement is often more important than the number of activities you list. The admissions committee looks for sustained commitment and growth in your chosen areas of interest, seeking evidence of how these experiences have shaped you and prepared you for the challenges and opportunities at Northeastern. Remember, your extracurricular activities are not just a list of accomplishments; they are a narrative of your passions, achievements, and the impact you have made.

Preparing for the Next Steps: Post-Submission Strategies

After submitting your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024 and the rest of your application, it’s natural to feel relief and anticipation. However, your journey towards college admission doesn’t pause here.

This period is an opportune time to prepare for the next steps in the admissions process. It’s essential to stay organized and proactive. Keep track of all application deadlines and any follow-up materials that might be required.

Additionally, this is an excellent time to reflect on your application journey – what you’ve learned about yourself, your goals, and how a Northeastern education fits into your future. This reflection helps in personal growth and prepares you for potential interviews or further interactions with the university. Remember, the post-submission phase is as much about staying engaged with the process as it is about patiently waiting for the decision .

What to Do After Submitting Your Application

After you have submitted your application, including Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024, your journey toward college admission is not yet over. You can take several proactive steps to ensure your application is complete and prepare for the following stages of the admissions process. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this post-submission period:

• Confirm Receipt of Your Application : It’s crucial to verify that Northeastern University has received all components of your application. This includes your supplemental essays, transcripts, and test scores. Most universities send a confirmation email or update your application portal status. Ensuring everything is received avoids any last-minute hiccups or disqualifications due to incomplete applications.
• Monitor Your Email and Application Portal : Regularly check the email address you provided in your application and applicant portal for any communications from Northeastern. This could include updates on your application status, additional information requests, or interview invitations. Prompt responses to these communications are essential.
• Prepare for Possible Interviews : Some applicants may be invited for an interview. It’s wise to prepare in advance by researching common interview questions. Reflect on how you can effectively convey your interest in Northeastern and demonstrate your readiness for college. Practice articulating why Northeastern fits you and how your experiences align with the university’s values.
• Continue Excelling Academically : Your academic performance remains significant even after you’ve submitted your application. Many universities, including Northeastern, request mid-year reports. Maintaining high grades and academic rigor shows the admissions committee your continued commitment to academic excellence.
• Engage in Your Current Activities : Stay actively involved in extracurricular activities and seek leadership roles. This demonstrates to the admissions committee your sustained commitment and ability to balance various responsibilities. It also shows your growth and development in areas outside of academics.
• Explore Financial Aid and Scholarship Options : Understanding the financial aid process is crucial. Explore scholarship opportunities offered by Northeastern as well as external sources. This can significantly reduce the financial burden of college education and is an essential aspect of your college preparation.
• Plan Campus Visits or Virtual Tours : If possible, visit Northeastern’s campus or participate in virtual tours and events. This can provide a deeper understanding of the university’s environment and culture. It also demonstrates your interest in the university and helps you make an informed decision if accepted.
• Stay Informed About Northeastern and Its Programs : Keep yourself updated with the latest news and developments related to Northeastern. This helps demonstrate continued interest and keeps you informed about any changes or new opportunities that might affect your decision or preparation for college.

Preparing for Potential Interviews

The possibility of an interview is an exciting aspect of the application process to Northeastern University. Interviews, whether in-person or virtual, are an opportunity for the admissions committee to get to know you beyond your application and for you to express your enthusiasm for Northeastern.

Start by researching common interview questions and practicing your responses. Focus on articulating clear, concise, thoughtful answers reflecting your personality and interests. Be prepared to discuss why you chose to apply to Northeastern, how your experiences align with the university’s values, and what you hope to achieve during your college years. It’s also important to be familiar with your application, including your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024, as interviewers may reference them during the conversation.

Additionally, prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the university and helps you gather valuable information about the campus experience. Remember, the interview is not just an evaluation of you; it’s a two-way conversation and a chance for you to learn more about the university. Approach it with confidence, authenticity, and a mindset of mutual exploration.

Conclusion: Embarking on Your Journey to Northeastern University

As you conclude the process of crafting your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024, you stand at the threshold of an exciting journey. The journey to Northeastern is not just about gaining admission; it’s about embarking on an educational adventure that promises growth, challenges, and countless opportunities.

The effort you’ve put into your essays and the entire application process is a testament to your dedication and desire to be a part of the Northeastern community. Remember, each part of your application, from your essays to your extracurricular activities, paints a picture of who you are and the unique contributions you can make to Northeastern’s vibrant campus.

As you await the admissions decision, take pride in the hard work you’ve accomplished and the introspection you’ve experienced. This process is not just about getting into college; it’s a journey of self-discovery and personal development that will serve you well in your future endeavors.

Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Aspiring Students

To all aspiring Northeastern students, remember that your application, including your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024, is a narrative of your life, dreams, and potential. It’s an opportunity to showcase your academic abilities, character, passions, and vision for the future.

As you finalize your application, be confident in your story and the unique perspective you bring. Do not underestimate the power of authenticity and the impact of a well-told personal story. Whether you’re an artist, a scientist, a community leader, or an entrepreneur at heart, your unique experiences and aspirations make your application compelling. Remember that the path to college, as incredibly prestigious as Northeastern, is often challenging. Still, these challenges prepare you for the exciting and transformative college experience that lies ahead.

The Lasting Impact of a Northeastern Education

Pursuing an education at Northeastern University is not just about the years you will spend on its campus; it’s about the lasting impact it will have on your life and career. Northeastern’s commitment to experiential learning, global perspectives, and interdisciplinary study prepares students for their first job and a lifetime of learning and adapting in an ever-changing world.

The skills, experiences, and networks you will develop at Northeastern will empower you to make meaningful contributions in your chosen field and beyond. The university’s diverse and dynamic community will expose you to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives, enriching your education and personal growth.

As you reflect on your application journey, including crafting your Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024, look forward to the endless possibilities of a Northeastern education. It’s an investment in your future that will continue to yield benefits long after you’ve graduated.

Take Your College Application to the Next Level with AdmissionSight

Are you ready to make your dream of attending Northeastern University a reality? At AdmissionSight , we specialize in guiding students like you through the intricate college admissions process. Our expertise in crafting compelling supplemental essays can be the edge you need.

With Northeastern University’s supplemental essays for 2023-2024 playing a crucial role in your application, our team of experienced consultants is here to help you showcase your unique story, talents, and aspirations in the most impactful way.

Don’t miss this opportunity to stand out in a competitive applicant pool. Contact AdmissionSight today for a consultation, and take the first step towards making your college aspirations a reality. Let us help you craft essays that meet the requirements and truly reflect who you are, making your application unforgettable. Your journey to Northeastern University starts here!

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

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Essay/Short Answer Questions

The YSP 2024 Application Essay/Short Answer Questions

This application includes short answer/essay questions, which will require some time to answer. In order to assist you in answering these questions they are listed below.

• If you have received any honors, awards, scholarships or special recognition, please list them below (with year received).
• Please list any academic enrichment programs or clubs (e.g. after-school such as language clubs, honor societies, Saturday programs, or summer programs, etc.) in which you have participated or are currently participating.
• Briefly describe any non-academic extracurricular activities (sports, dance, theater, community service, etc.) in which you have participated or are currently participating.
• Briefly describe any special interests you may have (250 words or less).
• Describe a time you faced a challenge and how handled it (500 words or less).
• Please write a short description as to why you would like to participate in this program (500 words or less).
• Where do you see yourself 10 years from now (250 words or less)?

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Mastering the Northeastern University Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

The Northeastern University supplemental essays offer a fantastic opportunity for you to showcase your personality, passion, and commitment to your chosen path of study. Located in the heart of Boston, Northeastern University is known for its experiential learning model and co-op programs. Hence, Northeastern is looking for students who can thrive in their unique educational environment.

Prompt 1: Why Northeastern? (200 words)

In this essay, the admissions committee wants to know why you have chosen Northeastern University. Do your research and be specific. Explain why you believe Northeastern is the best fit for you and how you would contribute to the community.

As an avid coder with entrepreneurial ambitions, I was immediately drawn to Northeastern University's combined Computer Science and Business Administration degree. I believe the ability to speak both the language of code and business is crucial in the fast-paced tech world, and Northeastern’s unique program seems tailor-made for my career goals.

But it's not just the academic offerings that appeal to me. The co-op program, a signature of Northeastern, offers practical, hands-on experience that aligns perfectly with my learning style. I am particularly excited about potential co-op placements with Boston's tech startups, as it would provide me with a first-hand understanding of running a tech business.

Lastly, the Husky spirit is something I wish to be a part of. The annual Husky Startup Challenge showcases the vibrant entrepreneurial culture that I long to immerse myself in. I see myself not just participating, but also contributing to this energetic community by sharing my own tech ideas and helping others shape theirs. At Northeastern, I see an ideal blend of rigorous academics, practical experience, and a vibrant community, perfect for nurturing my entrepreneurial dreams.

Prompt 2: Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (200 words)

This prompt asks you to reflect on a community you are part of, showing your ability to engage with and contribute to that community. This could be a geographic community, a cultural community, a religious community, or even a virtual one. Show how you have played a role in this community and what impact it has had on you.

I am part of a unique community of weekend trail runners. What started as a small group of health-conscious friends soon turned into a supportive, dynamic community committed to fitness and nature preservation.

My role within this community extends beyond being an active participant in weekly runs. Recognizing a need for structure and sustainability, I took the initiative to organize regular trail cleanups. After each run, we spend time picking up litter and ensuring the trails remain clean and safe for everyone.

As a result of my efforts, our group has become known not only for its commitment to fitness but also for its environmental stewardship. This responsibility towards my community has deepened my understanding of the crucial role each individual plays in preserving the environment and promoting community wellness. It has inspired me to continue seeking ways to create a positive impact in the communities I belong to.

Prompt 3: Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? (200 words)

This question is about your intellectual curiosity and willingness to challenge the status quo. Show how you used critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address a complex issue.

As a sophomore, I began to question the amount of food waste at our school cafeteria. It seemed incongruous that while we were learning about sustainability and global hunger issues in our Geography class, we were contributing to the problem in our cafeteria.

Determined to challenge this issue, I proposed a food waste reduction initiative to the school administration. I faced resistance initially, with many arguing it was an inevitable part of running a large school cafeteria. However, armed with research and a detailed proposal, I persisted.

My proposal included strategies like portion control, a composting program, and raising awareness about food waste. With continuous dialogue and persuasion, the administration agreed to a trial run.

The impact was substantial - we reduced food waste by 30% in the first three months. This experience taught me that questioning the status quo is the first step towards effecting change. The initiative’s success underscored the power of perseverance and solidified my commitment to environmental sustainability. Challenging this norm at my school not only resulted in a positive outcome but also reinforced my belief in the potential of youth advocacy.

Let's look at how to craft compelling responses for these prompts:

Why Northeastern? This isn't a prompt where generic praise for the university will suffice. Delve deeper into specific programs, opportunities, or aspects of campus culture that attract you. Don't simply regurgitate information from their website; personalize it to your interests and goals.

Community and Your Place Within It The aim here is to demonstrate your sense of community and your role in it. What unique perspectives do you bring? How have you positively impacted this community? Remember, the scale of your impact doesn't matter as much as your commitment to making a difference.

Questioning or Challenging a Belief or Idea The key here is to demonstrate your ability to reflect and change. Did the outcome result in personal growth? How did this change your thinking or influence your actions? This prompt allows you to highlight your maturity, thoughtfulness, and ability to adapt to new understandings.

Remember, each supplemental essay is an opportunity to reveal a new aspect of your personality and experiences to the admissions committee. Plan your essays accordingly, and don't be afraid to let your voice shine through.

Good luck with your Northeastern University applications!

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Nomination Process

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I nominate a student for Torch?

Complete a Nomination Form online by January 1. To submit a nomination, nominators must first create an account , and once created they will be directed to the portal where they can submit nominations. If you have already created an account, you can access the portal directly via this link . Please note: You will not be able to save your progress on a nomination. To aid in preparing your nomination, we have created this document with the questions you will be asked to answer as part of the nomination process.

Please help the Torch Scholars Committee view your nominees as individuals by providing a frank and detailed assessment of their strengths and needs. This information will be treated confidentially and used only for the purposes of evaluating the applicant’s appropriateness for our program and Northeastern. You may nominate one or more students for the program.

As a student, how do I apply to Torch?

• Ask a school counselor, teacher, mentor, clergy member, or community worker who knows you well to complete an official nomination form online by January 1.
• Complete Northeastern’s application and submit it online by the university deadline. The essay you write for your Northeastern application will be the same one considered for your Torch candidacy.
• Complete the  FAFSA  and  CSS Profile and submit these forms to Northeastern University by January 1.* * Fall 2024 Torch Nominees : Please submit the CSS Profile as soon as possible, preferably no later than February 26. You must still complete the FAFSA , preferably by March 1.  Failure to submit the CSS Pofile by February 26 or the FAFSA by March 1 will result in your removal from the Torch candidate pool.  Please visit your Application Status Check to learn if you have any outstanding documents.

What if I have questions or need help with the nomination process?

We’re here to help at any point in the application process. If you are a nominator with questions, please contact Jennifer Schoen, Director of Opportunity Scholarship and Outreach Programs, at 617.373.7705 or  [email protected] .

How does the Torch Program support its scholars?

Torch is dedicated to supporting students through:

• A full-tuition scholarship that covers tuition, fees, room, board, books, and fees for up to eight undergraduate semesters, as well as all costs for a six-week Summer Immersion Program
• Intensive academic planning and assessments
• In-depth peer and professional mentoring
• One-on-one meetings with academic advisors to develop skills in self-advocacy, communication, study habits, and goal setting
• A wide array of social events that foster group identity and camaraderie

What experiential opportunities do Torch Scholars participate in at Northeastern?

Torch Scholars expand their view of the world by participating in co-op, global, research, and service opportunities at Northeastern University. Supported by the Torch Scholars Program and the Northeastern network, scholars explore their passions and expand their horizons by traveling for study and service through Northeastern’s study abroad programs, participating in Dialogues of Civilizations, working in a wide variety of co-op positions, and more.

Are international students eligible for the Torch Program?

At this time, only U.S. Citizens and permanent residents are eligible for the Torch Program.

Is there a limit to how many students I can nominate for the Torch Program?

There is no limit to how many students nominators can submit for the Torch Program. However, we ask that you only submit one nomination per student.

If I apply Early Decision or Early Action, can I still be considered for the Torch Program?

If a student applies to Northeastern via the Early Decision or Early Action programs, and are admitted, they are no longer eligible for the Torch Program. However, if the student is not admitted during the Early Decision/Early Action rounds, their application will be deferred to the regular decision process, and they will remain eligible for the Torch Program.

Are transfers or current NU students eligible for the Torch Program?

High school seniors who are incoming first-generation college students from low-income households are currently the only students eligible for the Torch Program. Transfer and current Northeastern students are not eligible.

What do I do if I am having trouble accessing the link to nominate a student?

The nomination form for the Torch Program opens in mid-October. Once the form opens, nominators will have until January 1 to submit their nomination. If you are having issues accessing the form, please email  [email protected]  for assistance.

Writing Supplements

What is new this year about northwestern’s essay requirements, why did you make these changes to your essay requirements.

The changes we’ve made to our essays are designed to help students focus their responses on areas we consider most important to our holistic review: how their personal experiences have shaped various ways they see themselves engaging at Northwestern, and how their vision for college aligns with the resources and community they’ll find here. You may notice we no longer ask our “Why Northwestern” question. This question has always helped us learn these things, but not effectively in every case given how broadly we’ve framed it in the past. So this year we shifted away from the rather generic, “Why our college?” to a set of more specific (and we think more dynamic!) questions—ones we hope can help applicants learn more about Northwestern in the process of helping us better understand who they are, where they come from, and what matters to them. We also made the personal essay optional so students can focus their time on our writing supplements and, where it makes sense to do so, repurpose writing they’ve done for other colleges—including copy/pasting sections of their personal essay—to answer our required questions.

What are the new writing supplement prompts?

You can see our new writing supplements here .

Can I copy/paste sections of my personal essay to answer Northwestern’s new short answer questions?

Yes! We know you are busy—please feel free to repurpose writing you’ve done for other colleges—including copy/pasting sections of your personal essay—to answer our required questions. (We will also understand if there is repeated language between an optional personal essay and your required writing supplements.)

How many of the optional questions should I answer?

You may answer 0–2 optional questions. We do encourage students to answer at least one—again, we designed these questions to help you put your best foot forward in this application in helping us imagine how you see yourself engaging, learning, and/or growing at Northwestern.

Will answering more optional questions give my application an advantage?

No, responding to more optional questions will not carry any extra “weight” in the process. We’ll give equal consideration to students who answer 0, 1, or two optional questions.

Why are your short answers optional for students applying through QuestBridge?

The QuestBridge application contains more required writing samples than the Common Application or Coalition with Scoir application, offering candidates many opportunities to reflect on personal context, experiences, perspectives, background, identity, and their vision for college.

If I choose to submit my personal essay, will you still see it?

Yes! While we no longer require the personal essay with your Common Application or Coalition Application with Scoir, should you choose to submit one we will still be able to review it, just as we can any optional or supplemental application materials. 

Does Northeastern Have Supplemental Essays?

• Post author By Top Tier Admissions
• Post date October 6, 2023
• No Comments on Does Northeastern Have Supplemental Essays?

Over the past four years, Northeastern University has experienced a surge in applicants — from 64,428 in the 2019-20 admissions cycle to nearly 100,000 full-time, first-year applicants to the Northeastern Class of 2027. And Northeastern isn’t alone: in the uber-competitive, post-pandemic admissions landscape , colleges and universities have been inundated with record-breaking application numbers, stretching admissions teams thin and leading students to wonder how they can pivot to stand out in the crowd.

One perennial approach has been to use supplemental essays as a way to show colleges why you belong. But at a school like Northeastern, which doesn’t have supplemental essays (and in the absence of other key storytelling opportunities like admissions interviews ), what can you do to increase your odds?

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Make sure the school is a good fit.

When safeties no longer feel “ safe ” and overly-qualified applicants are rejected in favor of less-qualified applicants (a trend known as “ yield protection ”), it can feel like the whole system is, at best, unpredictable and, at worst, rigged. The fact is, to be a college is to be a business: colleges that can flaunt statistics like “90% of accepted applicants chose to enroll!” become increasingly appealing to high-achieving applicants, which, in turn, improves the college’s reputation as being “in-demand.”

What does this mean for you? It is in your best interest for colleges to think that, if they admit you, you will enroll. This is called “ Demonstrated Interest ”; more on this below.

First, you want to ensure that you are actually a good fit for the school. Look at your high school’s Naviance scattergrams to check that your GPA and test scores are in range with those of other successful applicants. If you’re school doesn’t use Naviance or SCOIR, review the college’s “class profile” and see how your GPA and scores compare. With fewer opportunities for applicants to share their “why” (AKA, why they belong), test scores and GPA become paramount in admissions decisions — even if test score submission remains “optional.” It may be tough to hear, but if your test scores and GPA are not in range at Northeastern, you may want to pivot your application strategy.

You also want to consider the school’s academic offerings: Northeastern is known for its business and engineering majors (the two most popular areas of study ), along with its emphasis on Experiential Learning . Because of this emphasis, Northeastern doesn’t offer a number of common humanities majors like Spanish, Art History, or Gender Studies. Northeastern should be able to see, upon reviewing your application, how you will find your place in their academic community.

Apply Early Decision

If you’ve done your homework and determined that Northeastern is both a good fit and your dream school, then it is in your best interest to apply to Northeastern through their binding Early Decision round. While Early Action applicants to the Northeastern Class of 2026 had a 6% admit rate, the Class of 2026 ED1 had a far more favorable admit rate of 32.41%. It all comes back to yield: if a college knows for certain that you will attend (Early Decision is binding), it will be more inclined to admit you.

Apply to a Satellite Campus

Northeastern has built a rather remarkable international network of satellite campuses from Boston to Oakland to London. If your heart is set on Northeastern, be open to the idea that starting your Northeastern experience at one of these satellite campuses could very well boost your odds of admission. Consider applying through one of Northeastern’s first-year programs, like the Global Scholars program, which places students on two separate Northeastern campuses for their first two semesters, the London Scholars program, through which students spend their first two semesters on Northeastern’s London campus, or the N.U.in program, which places students as a cohort in a global location for their first semester..

Essay Guidance

Get our expert guidance on your college essays.

Write a Strong Personal Statement

Even though Northeastern doesn’t have supplemental essays, the university does still read your Common Application personal statement. The personal statement is a major part of your application, helping colleges get to know you and your academic interests and enabling them to envision how you might contribute to their community.

Teacher Recommendations

In a survey conducted by the National Association of College Admissions Counselors, 54 percent of admissions offices reported that teacher recommendations are considerably or moderately important. At Northeastern, teacher and counselor recommendations are up there with the personal essays and grades as “ Very Important ” criteria in admissions decisions. When you’re deciding who to ask to write your recommendation for Northeastern, identify a teacher who will emphasize all of the unique qualities that you might otherwise show through supplemental essay questions.

Demonstrated Interest

Although some colleges, most notably the Ivies , have officially stopped tracking demonstrated interest , the fact of the matter remains that many schools do still consider your engagement when making admissions decisions. Visit campus, attend online info sessions and webinars, and open the college’s emails both to learn more about the school and to show your genuine interest in attending. Bear in mind also that you’ll want to keep your email address consistent throughout the college process, as this is how schools will track engagement. (Swap that funnylemon527 email address out for something more professional early on in your college process!)

Need expert feedback on your early application? Check out our Application Review Program !

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Community Engagement

Finally, remember that Northeastern, like any college, is looking for students who exemplify their values. Northeastern, which ranks #12 for Service Learning, is committed to Experiential Learning, a broad set of offerings that integrate classroom learning with real-world, often workplace-readiness and service-oriented, experience. According to the Common Data Set, applicants’ prior volunteer experience, work experience, extracurriculars, and “character” are all “Important” criteria that the university takes into account. As you prepare to apply to Northeastern, make sure that you’re making the most of your weekends and summers by participating in programs and activities that will both lead to personal growth and increase your college odds

SHIFT YOUR MINDSET

Just because Northeastern doesn’t have supplemental essays doesn’t mean you’re doomed to a rigged system. You simply need to shift your mindset. Grades and scores remain king and are the first hurdle in the admissions process. Once you’ve overcome that hurdle, focus on crafting a compelling main essay that showcases your intellectual curiosity and unique contributions to your community.

Learn how to stand out with or without supplements! We can help !

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Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

If you are in high school, or have completed high school and have not enrolled in a degree-seeking college or university program, you will apply as a first-year applicant. First-Year students may choose to apply to Northeastern during one of four decision programs: Early Decision I, Early Action, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision. Early Decision programs are binding, while Early Action and Regular Decision are non-binding. The Admissions Committee reviews each application holistically, understanding the context of your unique experience and today’s circumstances. We respect and consider each school’s pedagogy, allowing us to thoughtfully and effectively evaluate students for admissions based on their school’s academic offerings and overall experience.

Joining Northeastern as a transfer student is a good fit for those students who will have completed at least 12 semester hours of college-level coursework (after secondary school) OR have attempted at least one semester of full-time coursework and maintained enrollment through the add/drop period. Northeastern considers transfer applications for entry in the fall. The admissions review process is holistic, and will include consideration for merit awards.

Additional Information

“We don’t want you to fit the mold we created, we want you to create your own mold.” Joseph Aoun, President, Northeastern University

Admissions office

360 Huntington Avenue Boston , MA 02115 , United States of America

[email protected]

Phone number

(617) 373-2200

For first-year students

Admissions website.

northeastern.edu/admissions

Financial aid website

www.northeastern.edu/financialaid/aid/undergraduate/

For transfer students

New England

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Northeastern University Guide

The Ivy Scholars guide to Northeastern University’s culture, admissions, and other essential information for prospective students and their families.

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Mascot: Paws the Husky

Type: Private Research Institution

Population: 27,400 (18,400 undergrads)

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Statistics  

Natl. Rankings  

Admissions Info

Academics  

Special Programs

Student Life  

Financial Info  

Fun Facts     

About Northeastern

Founded in collaboration with the YMCA, Northeastern has become a well regarded research school. Known especially for its co-op program, where students learn experientially and on the job with partners around the globe. While the school’s rapid rise through the rankings has caused concern for some, the school is proud of its academic traditions and focus on research and student experience.

Northeastern Statistics

Year Founded:  1898

4 Year Graduation Rate:  19%

Gender Distribution: 51% Female, 49% Male

Acceptance Rate:  19%

Residency: 25% in state, 42% out of state, 33% international

Location Type:  Urban

Schedule System:  Semesters

Student/Faculty Ratio: 14:1

Average Class Size:  20

Demographics: 45% Caucasian, 30% Other/unknown, 13% Asian, 8% Hispanic, 4% Black

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National rankings.

US News Rankings:

• #1 Co-ops/Internships
• #9 Most Innovative Schools
• #16 Study Abroad
• #40 National Universities
• #40 Best Undergraduate Teaching
• #46 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs

Independent Rankings:

• #5 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice per Niche
• #7 Best Schools for Internships per The Princeton Review
• #14 Best College for Nursing per Niche
• #19 Best Colleges for Business per Niche
• #27 Best Colleges for Engineering per Niche
• #93 National Universities per The Times of Higher Education
• #96 Research Universities per Forbes

Northeastern Admissions Information

Application Deadlines:

• Early Decision I: November 1st
• Early Decision II: January 1st
• Early Action: November 1st
• Regular Decision: January 1st
• Transfer Deadline: April 1st

Notification Dates:

• Early Decision I: December 15th
• Early Decision II: January 15th
• Early Action: February 1st
• Regular Decision: April 1st

Acceptance Rates:

• Transfer: 31%

Average Applicant Pool: 62,200

Average Number of Applicants Accepted: 11,100

Average Number Enrolled: 2,000

Application Systems:  Common App, Coalition App

Average GPA: 4.04 weighted

SAT Scores: 25th% – 1390, 75th% – 1540

ACT Scores: 25th% – 32, 75th% – 35

*Test mandatory. Writing sections are not required.

Demonstrated Interest:

Northeastern does consider demonstrated interest.

How to Demonstrate Interest

Recommendation Letter Policies:

One letter from a counselor and one letter from a teacher are required.

Northeastern Essay Prompts:

• Common App personal statement (650 words)

Northeastern Essay Writing Tips

Special Notes:

Studio Art majors are required to submit a portfolio, and all students applying to the School of Art and Design are encouraged to submit a portfolio.

• Applicants must use either the Common or Coalition App.
• One evaluation/letter of recommendation from a professor, advisor, or employer is required.
• Standardized testing is required for most transfer applicants. This is waived if the applicant has done more than 1 year of undergraduate coursework, or who graduated from high school more than 5 years ago.
• Transfer Credit guidelines.
• On-campus housing is not required or guaranteed for transfer students.

Northeastern Admission Strategy

Admissions Criteria:

Northeastern is looking for students who are academically prepared for college, and who have demonstrated this through their GPA, course rigor, and standardized test scores. These are the most important factors for admission to Northeastern. 

Other important factors include the essay, recommendations, extracurriculars, and talent. More than numbers alone determine admissions, and Northeastern wants an interesting and diverse student body. 

Factors which are considered in admission are demonstrated interest, first-generation status, geographic origin, and race/ethnicity.

Recruited athletes do receive an advantage in the admissions process, though they are still expected to have strong academic preparation.

What is Northeastern Looking For?

Northeastern is looking to improve its ranking in the US News annual college list. They are not the only school to try to game the system, but they have done it more successfully than any other. Much of what they are looking for in college applicants reflects this desire to rise in the rankings. 

Most important are grades, course rigor, and standardized test scores. These are important for two reasons; the first is that average standardized test scores have a direct impact on the rankings, so Northeastern tries to attract the highest scoring students they can. The other factor is graduation and retention rates: Northeastern wants to ensure that the students it admits are ready for the college experience, and to that end uses their GPA, course rigor, and standardized test scores to judge their level of preparation. 

Beyond metrics alone, Northeastern is trying to build a student body of interesting and talented individuals. They are looking for students with clearly demonstrated passions and interests, both academic and otherwise. The student’s extracurriculars and essay are how they look for insight into these. They, like all other elite schools, prefer students who have specialized; focusing on one or two activities or interests. 

Northeastern has begun a new diversity initiative, and is looking to increase its recruitment and enrollment of under-represented and minority students on campus. They will thus be actively working to consider such applicants for admissions, although they will not want to compromise their academic standards to do so.

Finally, Northeastern wants to increase its yield, or the number of admitted students who attend, and thus looks to student’s demonstrated interest.

Northeastern Strategy:

The most important consideration when applying to Northeastern is academic readiness, as represented by GPA, test scores, and course rigor. You should be taking the most challenging courses offered by your school that you can succeed in. Further, you want your standardized test scores to be as high as possible; if they are not at the 50th percentile, consider studying and retesting. As Northeastern has been consistently trying to raise their average, having scores over this mark is even better, although not strictly necessary.

As Northeastern is trying to increase its yield, demonstrating interest and applying Early Decision are good ways to show the school that you are interested. Applying ED is especially helpful if Northeastern is your top choice, as it doubles your chances of admission compared to Regular Decision. Applying Early Decision II is a good idea if you aren’t ready for the first round of ED, or if you want more time to raise your test scores.

Unlike many top schools, Northeastern does not consider legacy status. This is a small but helpful thing, as legacy admits drive up the competition for non-legacy students, and are often admitted at twice the average rate. 

Finally, you should clearly demonstrate your passions and interests through your extracurriculars and personal statement. As Northeastern does not have supplemental questions, there is less room to expound upon what your passions are and what makes you unique. This increases the importance of the personal statement, as it is the only piece of writing admissions will have to make a decision with.

Northeastern Academics

• Bouve College of Health Sciences
• College of Arts, Media, and Design  
• Khoury College of Computer Sciences
• College of Engineering
• College of Professional Studies
• College of Science
• College of Social Sciences and the Humanities
• D’Amore McKim School of Business
• Changing schools or majors requires meeting with your advisor, and fulfilling school-specific transfer requirements, although it is generally simple. Ease of transfer varies by school.

Core Requirements:

• Northeastern has comprehensive core requirements called NUPath. Students must take at least 2 courses in each of the following competencies, but each course may count for up to 2 competencies. Major courses and AP credit may also count towards this credit. The competencies are: Natural and Designed World, Creative Expression and Innovation, Interpreting Culture, Formal and Quantitative Reasoning, Societies and Institutions, Analyzing and Using Data, Differences and Diversity, Ethical Reasoning
• Comprehensive Information

Courses of Study: 

• 90 Majors Offered
• Option to double major
• Popular majors include General Business, Economics, Mechanical Engineering, Communications, Computer Information Systems
• Minors offered
• Course Catalog

AP Credit Policies:

• Northeastern awards course credit for scores of  4 or 5. They grant credit for scores of 5 or higher on IB exams.
• Comprehensive Test Credit Information

Honors Programs:

• The Honors Program offers enhanced opportunities for experiential learning, research, and networking. They have their own housing, faculty advisors, and events.
• Academic Honors (based on cumulative GPA)
• Academic Honors Societies These offer an involved group of similarly focused scholars.

Research Availability:

• The office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (URF) serves to connect students with research opportunities.

Study Abroad: 

• Study Abroad Options

Business Options: 

• The School of business offers multiple majors , some of which focus on business alone, while others explore it in conjunction with another field.
• There are also joint Masters programs, which allow students to earn an MS in only a year. 
• The school runs several centers for research in business as well.
• There is an Engineering and Business program run through the College of Engineering.

Pre-Med Options:

• There is no dedicated pre-med major, but there is an advising program for students interested in pursuing careers in health. This includes an overview of required coursework for students interested in advanced degrees.

The health sciences major serves as a catch-all for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine.

Pre-Law Options:

• Law and Public Policy Minor
• PlusJD Program Early admittance to Northeastern’s Law School.
• Pre-Law Advising

Computer Science Options: 

• The Khoury School of Computer Sciences offers majors, minors and interdisciplinary courses of study with other schools, along with core classes on CS fundamentals.
• The school offers 4 accelerated degrees , which combine an undergraduate degree with an MS in Computer Science or a related field.
• The school sponsors research by students and faculty alike.
• CS Student Organizations

Additional Specialty Programs: 

• Combined Majors
• Plus One Bachelors/Masters Programs  
• General Studies Program
• Torch Scholars Program
• Engineering Leadership Program
• Cooperative Education

Programs for High Schoolers:

• Pre-College Programs are experiential programs for talented high school students from around the country and around the globe.
• Northeastern Accelerate offers half-day deep dives into specific topics and subjects virtually for high school students.
• Young Scholars Program is open to rising Seniors, and offers future scientists and engineers from Massachusetts hands-on research experience.
• Experiential Entrepreneurship is a residential summer program for talented high school students, and seeks to act as an incubator for future entrepreneurs.

Student Life at Northeastern

School Motto:   Light, Truth, Courage

Mission and Values:

• Additional Information
• Student Testimonials ( Niche , Unigo , Grad Reports )

Residential Housing System:

Freshmen are divided into groups, called living learning communities, based on shared academic or social interests. These can fill floors or even buildings of residence halls. The school runs traditional, suite, and apartment style residence halls. Honors students are housed together. All first and second year students are required to live on campus, upperclassmen may continue to live on campus or move off.

Housing Statistics:

• 85% of Freshmen live on campus
• 49% of undergrads live on-campus at any given time

Campus & Surrounding Area :  

• Located in Boston’s Fenway neighbourhood, the campus is covered in trees and green spaces despite its urban surroundings, and was designated an arboretum in 2019.
• Primarily located along Huntington avenue in the “ Fenway Cultural District ” there are many points of interest near campus, including the Museum of Fine Arts , the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , Huntington Theatre Company and Symphony Hall . 
• Safety Information ( Northeastern , College Factual )
• Virtual Tour , Virtual Events

Transportation:

• The school offers discounted MBTA passes on a semester basis. They have a rideshare program, and resources for cyclists .
• Parking Information

Traditions:

• Fall Fest – Students are welcomed back to campus every Fall by a weekend of games, activities, and free food.
• Husky Hunt – Teams of students compete in this 24 hour long scavenger hunt and series of puzzles that leads them around Boston.
• The Beanpot – An annual hockey tournament held between Northeastern, Harvard, Boston College, and Boston University, granting the winner a year’s worth of bragging rights over their cross-town rivals.
• Springfest – A weeklong celebration held on campus, featuring games, guest lectures, food, and music, capping off with a major concert.

Student-Run Organizations:  

• Organization Database
• Sample Organizations ( International Relations Council , Finance and Investment Club , Dance Company )
• D1 Athletics Colonial Athletic Association (Good Men’s and Women’s hockey)
• Intramural Sports
• Club Sports

Greek Life:  

• 11% of students are members of Greek life, including social, service, and academic organizations.
• There are frat or apartment parties most weekends.
• There is a vibrant nightlife in the neighborhood , not to mention the city of Boston itself.
• Ranked the #7 top party school in Massachusetts per Niche.

Financial Information

Yearly Cost of Attendance:

• Total: $72,932
• Tuition: $54,360
• Fees: $1,092
• Room & Board: $17,480

Financial Aid:

75% of students receive some form of financial aid. Northeastern commits to meeting every student’s demonstrated need, and will maintain that amount for 8 semesters of attendance. Aid packages will be reevaluated if tuition increases or if your family’s finances change. Students are required to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to be eligible for aid.

Additional Financial Aid & Student Loan Information

Scholarships: 

There are a number of merit-based scholarships which are also available. These do not require FAFSA to be filled out to qualify for, all students are automatically considered. Some programs, such as the Torch Scholars , have additional requirements to be eligible.

• The first baseball World Series was held at Huntington Avenue Grounds, which is now part of their campus.
• The original name of the school was “The Evening Institute for Younger Men.”
• The Matthews Arena on campus is the world’s oldest surviving indoor ice hockey arena.
• Northeastern outright purchased a small private college in London in 2018 in order to set up a branch campus there.
• Twitter’s co-founder Biz Stone attended Northeastern to study art, but dropped out.
• Napster was started by Shawn Fanning while he was a student at Northeastern.

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Northwestern University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 3

Northwestern University 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanation

The Requirements: 1 required essay of 300 words or fewer; 2 optional essays of 200 words or fewer

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Community , Diversity , Oddball

We have designed these writing supplements to help us understand your experiences throughout high school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become. The supplemental questions below touch on areas we see as important for building Northwestern’s Class of 2029, but you should feel free to repurpose essays you’ve written for other applications (including the Common/Coalition Application personal essay, which we no longer require) if they tell the story you’d most like to share.

We also know there may be information or qualities not covered in our supplemental questions that you see as important to your application. to that end, we welcome—but by no means expect—your submission of a personal essay or additional information in the common application., the following question is required for all common application and coalition with scoir applicants (optional for questbridge applicants). please respond in 300 words or fewer:, we want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: what aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise.

This is a kind of Why-Community Essay hybrid because admissions wants to (A) know what has shaped you, (B) learn about how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, and C) hear about the specific ways in which you will get involved (which requires demonstrating fit). This is a lot to accomplish in 300 words, but fear not, you got this! Start by isolating a specific story or anecdote that will offer admissions insight into how you have become the person you are today (remember, you don’t have to cover every aspect of your intricate, complicated, interesting self). Then connect that experience, community, or identity to the vision you have for yourself at Northwestern. If your experience is academic, maybe you want to write about the classes you would take or the research you would like to do. If your community is cultural, perhaps you want to write about the clubs you would join. In the end, you need to describe how you plan to engage in the Northwestern community in a way that draws on your past, so show admissions that you have done your research and you’re ready to dive headfirst into the Northwestern community!

The following questions are optional, but we encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

Painting “the rock” is a tradition at northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their wildcat spirit (what we call “purple pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. what would you paint on the rock, and why.

This prompt choice is glorious in its infinite potential. You can choose to elaborate on any of your passions here. Do you want to send a message to your fellow students about the environment? Maybe you want to rally students to join you at a demonstration of some kind. What is important to you? Essays responding to this prompt tend to lean in the direction of activism and community engagement, but don’t feel limited to these angles—anything you want to share with other Northwestern students (and, in this case, admissions) is fair game, as long as you feel strongly about it. And don’t forget to include the recognizable and effective acronym or short phrase you’d paint!

Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

This prompt will likely stand out to you innovators, since it’s asking about something you would make from scratch. Use this opportunity to share your imagination with admissions.  Maybe you’ve been making TikToks reviewing your favorite YA novels for some time now. Would you teach a class on the politics of the modern heroine in YA fiction? Perhaps you have an idea for a new healthtech business. Would you create a start-up? And don’t forget to address the second part of the question: who would you want to collaborate with? The person you choose could be your best friend, a community, or an industry leader you admire. There is no right or wrong answer here, so write about something you daydream about and show them that you know how to think big.

Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

If your answer to Northwestern’s required essay focused on specific organizations, clubs, and student groups you hope to get involved with on campus, it may be best to skip this prompt so as to avoid repeating yourself. If not, this is the perfect place to provide Northwestern with more examples of how you will get involved in their community. Maybe you focused your required essay on the academic community you hope to join as you take your research to the next level and you’d like to write about your vision for finding belonging in queer spaces on campus or making connections with other members of the AAPI community. Just keep in mind that your response should focus on the future while drawing on your past experiences.

Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

This prompt is for all you applicants who are chomping at the bit to study in Evanston, Illinois. The nice thing about being able to focus on geography with this prompt is that you don’t have to have a fully fleshed out plan for your major; instead, you can focus on the experiential and cultural elements that will feed into your education. Why is living in Evanston appealing to you? Your answer should be personal to you and, if possible, unique. Explain what your desire to move from your hometown to Northwestern’s campus says about you. Whether you’re hoping to stay close to your family in Chicago or you’re eager to venture out beyond your one-stoplight town, this is the place to share your excitement.

Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Admissions wants to know how you will contribute to the diversity of perspectives at Northwestern. What has shaped you as a person and how has that made your perspective unique? What lessons have you learned and applied? Is there anything you can teach your classmates or peers about your hometown, culture, religion, identity, race, or ethnicity that they might not already know? Northwestern wants to know how your personal perspectives, beliefs, and/or lived experiences will affect the conversations you have and the ways in which you engage with the Wildcat community, so tell them a story that helps them to imagine the kind of student you’ll be on campus next fall.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Northwestern requires one (1) supplemental essay, but applicants are also encouraged to submit 1-2 optional essays, as well. 

The limit for Northwestern’s “Why Essay” is 200 words or fewer.

Applicants will want to avoid silly grammar mistakes , repeating the prompt in their response, and telling rather than showing (e.g., saying you are determined without giving an example of a time you displayed determination).

The Northwestern supplemental essays are very important in the admissions process. The supplements help admissions to better “ understand your experiences throughout high school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become.” 

Authenticity and reflection are key. You want to both ensure that you’re submitting essays that no one else could submit—meaning they contain specific details from your life or background that aren’t easily replicable—and show that you’ve put thought and care into your response.

You can definitely mention specific professors or research opportunities in your Northwestern essays. You could mention a research opportunity in one of your essays while discussing how you see yourself engaging with the academic community, for example, or a professor you’d like to collaborate with. However, make sure you are not just name dropping; their inclusion should be relevant and thoughtful.

Build a bridge between your extracurricular activities and Northwestern’s offerings to show that not only have you already demonstrated relevant interests, but that you will also take advantage of Northwestern’s offerings to expand your horizons and explore additional interests. The required prompt and optional prompts #2, #3, and #4 all present opportunities for you to demonstrate your fit.

Northwestern is one of the few competitive schools that no longer requires the Common App personal statement, so you can reuse content from your Common App essay in your Northwestern supplements, provided you are not submitting one. If you do submit a Common App personal statement, however, admissions will read it, so you should only reuse content from your Common App essay if you do not intend to submit it.

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How I Wrote My College Essay: See Tips and Read the Essay That Got Me Into Northeastern

Student Perspective: How I Wrote My College Essay

Approaching the personal statement portion of the college application process is definitely overwhelming. There is no set method to follow when tasked with trying to express who you are authentically while also appealing to college admissions officers. I selected the seventh essay prompt on the Common App, which was free reign to write about any topic of your choice. The brainstorming part was definitely the most challenging for me. I didn’t know what to focus on about myself! I ultimately decided on the theme of community and how my experiences have made building community around me a core value of mine.

Having grown up overseas, creating community was an important part of my upbringing. I was able to make connections from those childhood experiences to my more recent high school ones.

I ended up utilizing a college essay coach through a company called Prompt to help me create a plan to execute my topic and to provide an outside source of editing and revising. While definitely not necessary, I found this to be a really helpful way to get my thoughts organized. My coach helped me to separate out the sections of my essay to create a nice flow. I had to meet deadlines for editing, which kept me motivated. Creating a clear outline made the writing process a lot easier too.

A big portion of the time I spent on my essay was on editing, including refining word choices, experimenting with sentence style, and cutting down word count. I definitely recommend getting as much outside feedback as possible when editing. For me that came from my essay coach, family, and my English teacher. At the end of the day it is your opinion on your own writing that matters, but it is nice to get suggestions from others to consider as well.

I also looked intensively at example essays online. This was helpful to get a general idea of the types of things to consider conveying in my own essay, but I will say it was a bit intimidating to read some really creative and abstract essays when I couldn’t see myself writing something that would compare. With that in mind, my advice is to try not to get too caught up in what essays are out there already because it distracts from the authenticity of your writing if you are trying to imitate someone else.

If getting started with your essay feels daunting, try compiling a list of your favorite hobbies, most important life lessons learned, or defining character moments. Looking back, I definitely recommend beginning this part of the application process as early as possible. The summer before senior year is a great time to get a head start. It’s a lot less stressful to fill out applications in the Fall if you’re already done with your main essay.

There really is no wrong way to go about writing your college essay, because colleges really just want to get a better idea of who you are, how your life experiences have influenced you, and your goals for the future. My number one piece of advice is to try not to get too in your head about your college essay. Just open up a blank document, take a deep breath, and write about whatever feels most natural and true to yourself.

Read the Essay That Got Delaney Into Northeastern :

“What’s the big deal? There are people here just like us,” I remarked as my family and I stepped off the plane and into the Shanghai Pudong International Airport. My excitement overshadowed any initial culture shock I would experience, and four-year old me was eager to explore this foreign land and meet new people along the way.

That single memory has been a north star throughout my life because no matter where I am in the world, I've learned to build communities with the people around me.

Fast forward to the start of school a few years and moves later. It didn’t take long for me to realize I was one of few Americans amongst my Taiwanese classmates. At lunch, in the halls, on the playground, conversations in Mandarin surrounded me. And so, every day as I sat in my beginner Mandarin class, I focused on grasping the language separating me from my classmates. My hard work certainly paid off, as I gained a newfound confidence to approach my peers without a fluent vocabulary. It wasn’t long before I realized that my classmates were facing the same barrier as me; all it took was that single moment of reaching out to them for the feelings of isolation to dissipate. Through this, not only did I challenge myself intellectually by embracing a brand new language, but I also began to understand that a language barrier couldn’t hold me back from forming friendships.

After returning to the U.S., I became passionate about volunteering. Joining the National Charity League led me to explore numerous philanthropic events. The Special Olympics non-profit especially sparked my engagement. I was able to play sports alongside other children and adults with intellectual disabilities which opened my eyes to the possibility of connecting beyond surface-level interactions. My involvement with the Special Olympics translated into my participation in Best Buddies at my school as the Publicity Manager, with which I have been devoted to holding fundraisers, spreading awareness, and most importantly spending time with our buddies. Despite our developmental differences, the connections we’ve made have been long lasting.

Going into my senior year of high school, I knew I wanted to do something to make an impact on my school’s community. I joined student government and became a Knight's Connection Program Manager within Link Crew. Through both programs, I’ve been able to hone my leadership skills and take more initiative to set an example at my school. Over the summer leading up to the start of school, I dedicated time to planning events for the new school year as we transitioned into a new campus. With that, I began mentoring a group of incoming freshmen. From giving them tours of the new campus to advice on making the most of high school while being successful, I created bonds within my group that have only grown since. I meet with my mentees once a month so we can catch up, but even the texts we exchange have been monumental in strengthening our friendships. It can be daunting to bridge an age gap, but I’ve come to learn that all it takes is a little bit of effort and willingness to get to know someone. It’s one thing to make connections, but to keep those is something invaluable to me. In addition, by being a leader on campus, I have dedicated my time and efforts to not only creating interpersonal relationships, but also to establishing a school culture that emphasizes community.

Today, every time I approach a new experience, I remind myself of that day stepping off the airplane in Shanghai. Regardless of where I may be in the world, I look forward to building bridges with those around me. With that said, there is no doubt that I will continue to carry that sentiment with me as I disembark into college, my career, and every other opportunity that presents itself.

Explore More On College Essays

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Delaney Roe

Delaney is a first-year student at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts where she is majoring in Business Administration with her concentration still to be determined. She is originally from Phoenix, Arizona but spent some time as a child living overseas in both Shanghai, China and Taipei, Taiwan. Delaney is super excited to explore all the opportunities available to her at Northeastern and is eager to help other students navigate college admissions in general.

• CC Name: @delaney.roe
• Instagram: @delaney.roe13

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Our Analysis of the 2023-2024 Supplemental Essay Prompts

This year's batch of supplemental essay prompts was released on august 1st. here's what those prompts reveal about the changing priorities at colleges and universities..

Thanks to the perceived essay loophole Chief Justice Roberts’ Supreme Court decision language created—establishing that students can write about racial identity when tied to other experiences and characteristics—there has been much speculation that colleges would scramble to add diversity-related questions to their applications. Now that the Common App has reset for 2023-24, we can see colleges’ new supplemental questions. Did this bear out? So far, we’d say: yes. Yes it did. Here are a few overall trends and changes we’re noticing in the 2023-2024 supplemental essay prompts.

An increase in DEIB-related essays

This comes as no surprise. It’s important to note that many colleges already had prompts that asked students to reflect on their identities, on their communities, or on how they would contribute to diverse campuses; schools like Duke, Michigan, and Syracuse have included questions like this on their supplements for years now. But other schools have made notable changes since June’s decision: University of Miami, for example, replaced their question about the ibis (which, admittedly, we are not terribly sad to see go); American University scrapped their “why AU?”; and UVA retooled the essay questions they had only just retooled last year (even though UVA’s Dean J admitted she really liked last year’s version).

Here are the new versions of those schools’ supplemental essay questions:

University of Miami

“Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the University of Miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. The University of Miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute. Please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive University community.” (max 250 words)

American University

“At American University, Inclusive Excellence is a cornerstone of the academic experience for our students, and we deeply value the learning that is inspired by the diversity of backgrounds and life experiences that all our community members bring with them. Please share why you would like to join this community.” (max 150 words)

All Applicants (300 words or less):

“What about your background, perspective, or experience will serve as a source of strength for you or those around you at UVA?”

(…and read more about UVA’s new legacy-based optional question here ).

More choice for students

Many colleges who have introduced new questions have included these questions as one of several choices. BU, for example, introduced a new question—“Reflect on a social or community issue that deeply resonates with you. Why is it important to you, and how have you been involved in addressing or raising awareness about it?”—but kept their classic “Why BU?” as an alternative option. Offering prompt choices—which schools like Tufts, Boston College, Villanova, Emory, and University of Richmond have done for quite some time—allows for students to write about their identities if they wish and on their own terms.

…Except at Harvard

As one of the defendants in the Supreme Court case, Harvard has lots of eyes on its post-SCOTUS decision making. Its response to the decision? Eliminating the previous optional (er, “optional”) essay and instituting five required essays. Very Harvard of them. And yes, one of them is directly about diversity:

“Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard?”

Less emphasis on “why us?” essays

While this isn’t true everywhere, we saw a few surprising changes at some “why us?” stalwarts. Perhaps most notably, Tulane’s “why us?” essay—which, for many years, famously had an 800-word limit—is now a mere 250. And while last year Tulane had three different robust supplemental essay questions, now it’s just the one. Truly, our jaws are on the floor (yes, at this time of year, this counts as Very Exciting News. We essay editors don’t get out much in August). Equally shocking: no “why Indiana?” question for Indiana University in Bloomington. In fact, no supplement at all! That’s one way to lower the barrier to entry and boost application numbers (just ask Northeastern).

For tips on how to tackle these essay questions, check out our College Essay Hub . And if you’re looking for more in-depth, one-on-one support, reach out to our college admissions team!

Caroline Hertz

Transfer Applicants

We’re excited for you to continue your higher education journey at Northeastern. You can find information about transferring and required documents below. Please refer to our Deadlines and Decisions page for information regarding our transfer application timeline.

Transfer applicants are students who will have completed at least 12 semester hours of college-level coursework (after high school graduation)  OR  have attempted at least one semester of full-time coursework and maintained enrollment through the add/drop period (after high school completion).

Application

• Completed Transfer  Common Application  or  Coalition Application
• Application fee  of $75

Transcripts

• Official college transcript(s ) for all institutions you have attended
• Final high school transcript or GED/HiSET score report

College Report

College Report (form available through the Common Application) to be completed by the Registrar Office or Dean of your current/previous school. All sections must be completed in order for your application to be reviewed. If you are having trouble downloading this form from the Common App, feel free to download this form  and have your school email it to  [email protected] .

Academic Evaluation

Evaluation from an academic advisor, professor, or employer (online submission through the Common Application).

Standardized Testing

Northeastern University is test-optional and does not require applicants to submit standardized testing to be considered for admission.

• All complete applications will be fully considered for admission to Northeastern.
• If you choose to apply without standardized testing, you will not be penalized or disadvantaged.
• If you choose to submit standardized testing, you may submit the SAT (CEEB Code 3667) ACT (College Code 1880) or both. Northeastern super-scores and will only consider your best score between the two types of tests.
• Non-native English-speaking applicants must continue to submit official results from an approved English Language Test or request a waiver through the  Application Status Check . For additional information, continue reading or visit the  International Applicants page  for our English Language Proficiency policy.

Current Year Courses

The transfer list of current year courses is a document that details the courses you are currently taking this semester. Typically, this requirement is fulfilled by either an unofficial copy of your current transcript that shows the courses in progress or a PDF screenshot of your current course list. Course description documents or a list of courses typed up do not fulfill this requirement. If you are not currently enrolled in courses, please contact the office of admissions to review your situation at [email protected] .

Optional Materials

• Joint Services Transcript (JST)/Community College of the Air Force transcript  for veterans or active duty military
• Mid-term Report (highly recommended) for students who are currently enrolled in courses. Form available online through the Common Application. If you are having trouble downloading this form from the Common App, feel free to download this form  and email it to  [email protected] .
• An indication that the institution is accredited in US terms
• A course by course credit and grade conversion

Additional Materials

English proficiency and international student requirements.

All first-year and transfer applicants, regardless of citizenship, must demonstrate proficiency in English to be considered for admission to Northeastern. You can complete the requirement in the following ways:

• You are a native English speaker.
• C1 Advanced  or  C2 Proficiency (Cambridge English)
• Duolingo English Test (DET)
• IELTS Academic
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL Internet-based Test (Northeastern will accept either the in-person iBT completed in a test center, or the online iBT Home Edition. Northeastern’s TOEFL Code is 3667.)
• You are a non-native English speaker, and immediately before enrolling at Northeastern, you will complete 4 consecutive, full-time academic years in high schools and universities where native English was the primary instructional language for all courses except foreign language acquisition courses. All waiver requests must be submitted through your Application Status Check . For additional information and to determine whether you are eligible for a waiver, please see the International Students page for more information on waiving the English proficiency requirement.

Please note: Northeastern’s Admissions Committee reserves the right to request proof of English language proficiency from any applicant, regardless of citizenship or first language, at any time during the evaluation process.

Non-U.S. citizen applicants are required to submit the  Declaration and Certification of Finances  (DCF) form for their application to be considered complete.  The Certification of Finances is designed to assist colleges and universities in obtaining complete and accurate information about the funds available to international applicants. As Northeastern is unable to offer state or federally-funded financial support to international applicants, the process of verifying the financial resources of students is essential.

Students applying to the  College of Arts, Media and Design  can submit a portfolio under their Application Status Check after applying to Northeastern. Applicants are encouraged to complete all forms, including Academic Profile, Media Uploads, and Personal Statement (500-word limit). Please only submit one portfolio. Additional submissions will not be reviewed.  Click here for more information and deadlines.

Programs not currently accepting applications

• Bouvé College of Health Science, School of Nursing - We are not accepting applications for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program but are now offering a transfer track into the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program. Learn more .
• Explore Program for undeclared students

The courses below outline recommended and required courses for transfer admission Northeastern University. Courses listed as required must be completed or in-progress to be considered for the specific college/program. All other courses are recommended. You may visit our  Transfer Equivalency Database  to find out if the courses you have taken have been previously evaluated for transfer credit.

For those applying into one of our 130+ combined majors, please review the course information for each individual college or program involved in the combined major. ( For example, if you choose to apply to the combined major of  Biology and English , please review the transfer requirements for both the College of Science and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities ). To learn more about our combined majors, please click  here .

Bouvé College of Health Sciences

Health science.

• Biology I with lab
• Chemistry I & II with labs (or equivalent)
• Calculus or higher
• College writing (equivalent to ENGW 1111)

BA Public Health

• Biology 1 with lab
• College Writing (equivalent to ENGW 1111)

School of Nursing*

• Anatomy & Physiology I & II with labs
• Chemistry with lab
• Microbiology with lab
• Foundations of Psychology

*Please note that Nursing students must complete all recommended coursework in order to progress into year 2 of the program’s course sequence

• Chemistry I with lab  (required)
• Biology I with lab  (required)
• Chemistry II with lab  (strongly recommended)
• Biology II with lab  (strongly recommended)

College of Arts, Media and Design

• Mathematical Thinking or Calculus
• Foreign Language  (BA students only)

College of Engineering

• Calculus I  (required – level should be for Engineering/Science majors)
• Physics I  (required – level should be calculus based)
• Chemistry I  (strongly recommended)  

College of Social Sciences and Humanities

• Calculus or better

College of Science

• Natural Science with lab

D’Amore-McKim School of Business

• Calculus at the college level  (strongly recommended)
• Macroeconomics  (BSBA only, strongly recommended)
• Language  (Intermediate level strongly recommended for BSIB)
• Business Statistics**
• Microeconomics*

Khoury College of Computer Sciences

• Calculus 1  (Required)
• Discrete Structures (Highly recommended for 2nd/3rd year applicants)

Enrollment Checklist

Please view your  Application Status Check  to view your enrollment checklist and next steps/important dates to note in order to enroll at Northeastern.

University housing is not available to transfer students. We encourage students to engage with the resources offered by the Off Campus Student Services Office  to secure housing.

Transfer Credit/MyPaws

• Your transfer credit evaluation will be made available to you within the next couple of days.
• To ensure we have the most up to date information, you should forward an updated college transcript with final semester grades
• If you have completed AP, IB or GCE examinations, request that the results be sent to Northeastern.
• Participation in dual enrollment programs while in high school may also be considered for transfer credit. You must submit the official college transcript from the institution that hosted courses.

We honor and value your service to the country and look forward to welcoming you to the Northeastern community. Northeastern participates in the Yellow Ribbon and Post 9/11 GI Bill. Members of the  Center for the Advancement of Veterans and Servicemembers  (CAVS) are able to assist you through the eligibility process. You may contact them at  [email protected] .

NU Transfer Organization (NUTSO)

NUTSO provides transfer students with an opportunity to meet one another and participate in social activities while transitioning to Northeastern. If you have questions about transfer and the Northeastern community, you can reach out to NUTSO via email at  [email protected] .

New Student Orientation

New Student Orientation is mandatory for all transfer students enrolling at Northeastern. During the daylong New Student Orientation you will meet with your academic advisor to choose classes, as well as other departments such as the Financial Aid, Housing, and Campus Safety departments, who are vital to your success at Northeastern. New Student Orientation information is sent via your Husky email account once you deposit.

Am I considered a freshman or a transfer student? Transfer applicants are students who have completed at least 12 semester hours of college-level coursework (after high school graduation) OR have attempted at least one semester of full-time coursework and maintained enrollment through the add/drop period (after high school graduation).

I am receiving an Associate’s degree and high school diploma at the same time. Why can’t I be considered a transfer student?  Northeastern’s definition of a transfer student is anyone who will have completed at least one full-time semester of college-level coursework  after  high school graduation. Students who do not have their high school diploma by the application deadline are not considered transfer applicants. Dual-enrollment courses can be considered for transfer credit.

Do I need to submit all official college transcripts even if my transfer credit appears on a transcript? Yes, we require students to submit all official college transcripts.

How does Northeastern review transfer applications? We review all applications holistically and are looking for students who are the best fit for Northeastern. We look closely at the student’s academic coursework and grades, along with extracurricular involvement, including work, clubs, community service, and internships. We value all information, and students should show how they are the best fit for NU and how they will take advantage of the opportunities here.

Does the Office of Admission review applications differently for specific majors? Each program has recommended and required coursework that we take into account in the review process. Students can view this information in the ‘Program Requirements’ section on the  Transfer Credit website .

My application is complete. When will I receive my admission decision? Decisions are released on a rolling basis; the latest notification date is June 30.

I applied as a transfer student for previous term and was not offered admission/didn’t attend. Do I need to submit a new application for the next Spring/Fall term? Students must submit a new transfer application through the Common Application for each academic term.

When will I receive my degree audit? Students will receive their official degree audit within one week of admission. To learn more about transfer credit at Northeastern, visit the  Transferring Credit  website.

I studied in a British-patterned education system but did not complete A-level exams, can I apply as a transfer student to Northeastern? All enrolling students from British-patterned education systems are expected to present three passing results on full GCE A-Levels (or if exceptional circumstances, 2 passing A-Levels, and 2 passing AS-Levels, taken across four different subjects). In cases where a student is unable to provide either, we will be unable to consider them for transfer until they have successfully completed an Associate’s degree or equivalent number of courses in a Bachelor’s degree-seeking program (64 credit hours). An application can be submitted during the final term in an Associate’s degree program, or typically in the third semester out of four total semesters in a Bachelor’s degree seeking program. A complete college or university transcript will be required, in addition to the Mid-Term Report.

I am a veteran/activity duty. Should I apply as a freshman or a transfer student? Transfer applicants are students who have completed at least 12 semester hours of college-level coursework (after high school graduation) OR have attempted at least one semester of full-time coursework and maintained enrollment through the add/drop period. Veterans who have not completed any college coursework can apply as freshmen, but they should submit an application based on how they identify. Please reach out to an admissions  for more information or email  [email protected] .

Do I still need to submit my SAT/ACT scores? For applicants applying for the 2024-2025 academic year, Northeastern University is test-optional and does not require standardized testing to complete an application for admission. You can learn more about our testing policy here.

Do I need to submit my Mid-term report? We highly recommend that students submit the Mid-Term Report if they are currently enrolled in classes, but it is not required.

Who should I contact if I have questions? Transfer students can email  [email protected] .

If you have more questions about Northeastern, please visit our  Frequently Asked Admissions Questions page  for more information.

We prefer most credentials be submitted online via The Common Application or by email to [email protected] . Credentials not submitted online should be mailed to the address below. Official transcripts must be sent in a sealed envelope, directly from the institution, or via an electronic exchange.

For application fees, fee waiver requests (being sent separately from the application), FedEx, UPS, or Priority Mail packages:

Mail to: The Office of Undergraduate Admissions 101 Belvidere, 3rd Floor Northeastern University Boston, MA 02115-5000 USA

For Official transcripts, recommendation letters, and the College Report:

Mail to: Northeastern University Application Processing Center P.O. Box 8210 Portsmouth, NH 03802, USA

Additional Information for Transfer Applicants

Transfer credit.

View our transfer credit policies and course equivalencies.

Request information

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Coming Soon.

Northeastern University London is inviting competition entries from students who are currently in their penultimate year of secondary education (equivalent to Year 12 in the English education system, or Grade 11 in India).

Our selection of essay titles engage across a broad range of technology, social science and humanities topics and we look forward to receiving entries from talented and intellectually curious students who show passion in their subject area. We welcome entries from students located anywhere in the world.

If you have any further questions please see our  FAQ page before contacting us.

Choose your essay question

Coming Soon

The following prizes will be awarded:

Overall winner across all essay subjects- £1000

Winner in a subject category- £500

Runner up in a subject category- £250

How to enter

1. Register for the competition – After registering you will be emailed detailed instructions on how to enter.

2. Choose one of the titles

3. Write your 1,500-word essay

4. Submit your essay via our online form (URL will be emailed to you after you register) by 2 pm GMT Monday 6th January 2025. 

If you have any further questions please see our FAQ page before contacting us.

Who can enter?

The Northeastern University London Essay Competition is open to students who are currently in their penultimate (second to last) year of secondary education (Year 12 in England or Grade 11 in India). This is a global competition, so we encourage entries from those studying anywhere in the world. Find full competition rules here .

Register here

We are no longer accepting registrations for the essay competition. If you have any questions please refer to our FAQ .