essay requirements for northwestern university

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Please apply in the Round that fits your schedule. The same application review process is applied during each Round, and all admitted students will be considered for merit-based scholarships regardless of the Round they choose to apply. Each deadline has a corresponding decision notification date. Decisions are not released on a rolling basis; instead, applicants who have submitted completed applications by the deadline can expect a decision by the notification date above. A completed application means that all transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation and required essays have been received by our office. Applicants can view whether their application is complete by checking their application portal . Applications that are submitted but missing required documents, such as a letter of recommendation, will not be reviewed until all materials have been received. As a result, applications that are incomplete are not guaranteed a decision by their corresponding notification date. Late applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis once all the application materials have been received in our office.

You must have earned a four-year bachelor's degree before starting the IMC program. You may apply prior to completing your degree. Applicants who earned a bachelor’s degree outside of the United States must submit a course-by-course evaluation and degree verification from a NACES provider (see https://www.naces.org/ for a list) indicating their bachelor’s degree is the equivalent of a four-year bachelor’s degree in the United States. This evaluation is required at the time of submission of the application. An application submitted without the NACES evaluation is considered incomplete and it will not be reviewed.

When you apply , you must submit academic transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities you have attended. You are not required to submit a transcript for non-degree course work for certificates or MOOCs. Please list non-degree coursework on your resume and indicate as non-credit.

Transfer credit: In addition to the transcript from your home institution, you must submit a transcript from any other institution where you received credit for at least three courses that transferred to your home institution. This includes credit earned on study abroad programs hosted by an institution other than your home institution. You must submit a separate transcript from the institution where you received transfer credit even if the grades for your transfer courses appear on your home institution transcript.

For application review, you can submit either official or unofficial transcripts. To be official, a transcript must be sent directly from your institution to Medill, either via postal mail or electronically, with any seals intact.

You can also send official transcripts via secure e-transcript provider to [email protected] (the preferred method for receiving transcripts) or via mail directly from the institution to:

Medill Office of Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Northwestern University 1845 Sheridan Road Suite 104 Evanston, IL 60208-2101 

You can upload unofficial transcripts in the "Previous Education " section of the application. Please make sure that uploaded unofficial transcripts are complete (state the name of the institution and all quarters and semesters of enrollment) and legible; if they are not, the processing of your application could be delayed. If the size of your unofficial transcript file is too large to upload directly into the system, please email your transcript to [email protected]

If you are admitted , you will be required to submit official and final copies of all transcripts 30 days prior to enrollment (start of classes), including your final undergraduate transcript with proof of your degree and the date it was conferred. Medill reserves the right to withdraw an admission offer if we do not receive these official transcripts by this deadline. It is your responsibility to request an official transcript from each institution you have attended and to ensure transcripts are sent to Medill.

Applicants with international transcripts

Applicants with international transcripts must also submit an independent course-by-course credential evaluation and degree verification from a NACES provider (see https://www.naces.org/ for a list of approved providers) at the time they submit their admissions application.

Please note: The Northwestern University Medill Office of Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid is a separate office from Northwestern University’s The Graduate School. Transcripts must be routed directly to the Medill’s Office of Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid.

Admissions interviews will be conducted by invitation only after we have received your completed admissions application. An invitation to interview means that your application has advanced in the process but does not imply admission to the program.

Medill requires GRE or GMAT scores. The test must have been taken within five years of your application submission date.  Medill accepts scores from at-home versions of these tests.

Medill allows you the option to self-report your test scores, with percentages, on your application. This allows you to manually type in your scores and percentages without ordering the scores to be sent to Medill. Once you submit your application, we will review these unofficial scores along with the rest of your application. If we decide to offer you admission based on these unofficial scores, it will be on the condition that you send us your official scores at least 30 days prior to enrollment (start of classes).

The official copy of test scores should be sent directly to Medill from ETS or GMAC. Our GRE code is 1699. Our GMAT code is 6WZ-XH-66. Allow four weeks for our office to receive your scores.

You may request a waiver of the GRE and GMAT requirement if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You have a final, cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale or you are a senior with a current GPA of 3.5 or above;
• You have earned a master’s or doctorate degree;
• You have 3 or more years of relevant full-time post-graduate professional work experience;
• You are a current degree-seeking Northwestern University student or degree-holding alum.
• You do not meet the above criteria for a test score waiver but would like to request a waiver

If you are requesting a waiver based on any of the above criteria you are required to submit a written waiver request with your current resume and undergraduate transcript to [email protected] for approval.

Please note, if you request a waiver, we may still require that you take the GRE or GMAT if we think it will allow us to give better consideration to your application.

If you would like verification of your waiver prior to submitting your application, you may email [email protected] . Please attach relevant documents to your email request (e.g. resume, undergraduate and/or graduate transcripts) and a short explanation of why you are requesting a waiver.

If we approve your request, you can view the waiver approval by logging into your online application portal.

Please email [email protected] if you have questions about your eligibility for a waiver.

If you are an international student, and English is not your first language, you must submit English language test scores. Medill will accept Duolingo or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) language test scores. These two tests are preferred by Medill. Medill will accept at-home versions of these English language tests. The Duolingo or TOEFL tests must be taken within two years of your application submission date. Send TOEFL scores to Medill using code 1699-18. Please upload your Duolingo scores in your admissions application. For the video portion of the Duolingo exam, provide the link in the “Additional Information” section.

Submit your current resume, which should highlight your professional and academic experiences, including non-degree course work, certificates, and MOOCs. We encourage applicants to include all positions recently held on their resume, including non-marketing/communications jobs, internships, or volunteer experience. This includes federal work-study and other positions held during college. For each professional and/or internship experience, please be sure to notate time spans that include the month and year.

Please upload a personal statement answering all essays prompts below using a narrative format in the Application Documentation section of the application. The personal statement should include the essay prompts, to ensure that all essay prompts are being answered in the personal statement. We look forward to reading your personal statement so we can best learn who you are as an applicant and how the IMC program will enhance your career plan. Be sure to address the following questions (3,000 words or fewer):

• In your view, what differentiates Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) from other marketing and communications? What experiences in your life have led you to pursue an IMC degree? Why do you want to study IMC and how will it help you achieve your professional goals?
• How will your background, identity and professional experiences help you co-create an inclusive and enriching learning experience with your classmates and faculty in the IMC program?
• Describe one setback you faced in your professional life (for example, in a job, class or internship). How did you respond, what did you learn from the experience, and how will that lesson help you in the future?
• Describe a time when you received critical feedback (for example, in a class, job or internship). What was the feedback, how did you respond, and what did you learn from the experience?

Additional Information (optional): If there is anything in your application that you would like to address (e.g., GRE or GMAT scores, GPA, lack of marketing or other work experience) or any additional information you would like to include (e.g. information an award or scholarship, gap year, etc.), please submit an essay of 300 words or less to upload in the bottom of the “Additional Information” section.

Medill requires two letters of recommendation for applicants to our graduate programs. Recommendations should be from someone who can assess your academic and professional abilities (e.g., employers, supervisors, current or former professors). Recommendations from family members or from friends who do not have direct experience with your professional or academic work will not be accepted. Enter your recommenders' contact information in the online application. The system will then email your recommenders instructions on how to submit their letters online. You are responsible for reminding recommenders to submit their letters through the online system by the deadline. If your recommender has trouble submitting their letter, please contact [email protected] . Please note: We cannot accept letters of recommendation submitted by applicants; they must come directly from the recommender.

There is a $100 non-refundable application fee. You may pay this online by credit card.

If you are a current or former member of the U.S. Armed Forces, AmeriCorps, Teach for America, McNair Scholar, Posse Foundation Scholar, Quest Bridge student or the Peace Corps, you may request a fee waiver by sending an email to [email protected] prior to submitting your application.

We also offer a limited number of application fee waivers based on financial need; requests of this nature must be requested in writing prior to submitting your application. Send your request to [email protected] .

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial aid available to IMC students includes scholarships, private loans and, for U.S. citizens and permanent residents, federal student loans. Additional information can be found on our Finacial Aid page .

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and would like to apply for federal financial aid, you may do so after you are admitted. Instructions for how to apply for federal financial aid will be sent directly to admitted students.

Mailing application materials

Send materials that cannot be uploaded or entered into your online application account to:

Medill Office of Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Northwestern University 1845 Sheridan Road Suite 104 Evanston, IL 60208-2101

Please note that application materials become property of Northwestern University and will not be returned. Remember to retain a personal copy of your application. You can also email materials to [email protected] .

Medill reserves the right to revoke admission if new information is obtained that would warrant such action.

In exceptional circumstances, Medill reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to waive any documentation normally required for admission. Medill also reserves the right to admit or deny admission whenever it believes that it has sufficient evidence to do so.

Northwestern University reserves the right to change without notice any statement in this application or instructions concerning, but not limited to, rules, policies, tuition, fees, curricula and courses.

Northwestern University does not discriminate or permit discrimination by any member of its community against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship or veteran status in matters of admission, employment, housing, or services or in the educational programs or activities it operates.

Harassment, whether verbal, physical, or visual, that is based on any of these characteristics is a form of discrimination. This includes harassing conduct affecting tangible job benefits, interfering unreasonably with an individual's academic or work performance, or creating what a reasonable person would sense is an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

While Northwestern University is committed to the principles of free inquiry and free expression, discrimination and harassment identified in this policy are neither legally protected expression nor the proper exercise of academic freedom.

Any form of cheating, including improper use of content generated by artificial intelligence, constitutes a violation of Northwestern’s academic integrity policy. Turnitin, which is already in use at Northwestern, is expanding its system to include artificial intelligence detection

For advice or assistance regarding this policy, Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance - Northwestern University .

©2023 Northwestern University. All rights reserved.

In the spirit of healing, Medill acknowledges and honor the Potawatomi, Odawa and Ojibwe Tribes, the original people of the land upon which Northwestern University stands.

Requirements

The Department of Physical Therapy & Human Movement Sciences at Northwestern University maintains the richest possible educational environment through the enrollment of a diverse student body, one that represents applicants from underrepresented populations, applicants with work experience and applicants from the smallest to the largest of our nation's colleges and universities. 

Factors considered for admission include academic performance and knowledge of the physical therapy profession. Applicants are expected to demonstrate personal and professional behaviors consistent with those expected in professional practice. Characteristics and skills such as integrity, initiative, sound judgment, acceptance of responsibility and interpersonal communication are evaluated through the application, essays and recommendations. Interviews are typically not required but may be requested at the discretion of the Admissions Committee. All applications from eligible persons that are submitted to PTCAS by the application deadline will be evaluated.

  Academic Performance

Applicants must successfully complete a bachelor's degree at a regionally accredited college or university by the time of entry in the DPT program (First week of September) and hold a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Please see the   PTCAS website for information about how GPAs are calculated.

  Essays

Application essays are evaluated for content as well as writing ability. Applicants must submit three essays: 1 PTCAS essay and 2 Northwestern essays (submitted via PTCAS, after adding Northwestern as a Program Designation). Applicants also have the option to complete an essay about the impact of COVID-19 on their academic planning.

PTCAS Prompt

Max 4,500 characters, including spaces:  “Every person has a background, an identity, interests, or talents which they feel their application would be incomplete without having mentioned. Describe the traits or experiences that make you unique and explain how they will help you be a successful physical therapist."

COVID-19 Impact Essay

If you feel as though your pathway to a physical therapist education program was educationally, personally, or professionally impacted by the global COVID-19 pandemic, please describe for your programs the impact you experienced. Some impacts you may want to consider when responding include:

• Educational: Did your institution move to requiring online or distance coursework? Were you able to effectively interact with your program faculty and professional staff and receive the support needed to succeed? Were you required to move to a Pass/Fail grading system? 
• Personal: Did you unexpectedly have to change your living situation? Did you need to care for yourself or a loved one who was directly impacted? Did you seek out new volunteer opportunities that arose from the crisis?
• Professional: Did you have a change in employment status, a change in available shadowing experiences, or other professional or financial changes?

Northwestern Essay 1

Max 1,200 characters, including spaces: In the Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, we value individual differences and diversity as a measure of excellence. We define diversity as the collective richness of traits, characteristics, experiences, and skills. We are seeking a diverse incoming class of learners who can contribute to the educational environment and the capacity of our graduates to serve a diverse patient population. Please comment on how you will leverage your diverse traits, experiences and/or behaviors to contribute to the DPT program at Northwestern and the patients we serve.

Northwestern Essay 2

Max 1,200 characters, including spaces: Applicants may select one of the following two options:

• Selecting a DPT program can be both exciting and challenging. Please discuss your top priorities when looking for and determining the DPT program you will ultimately attend.
• Going beyond the activities listed in your application, please describe what you have learned and/or the skills you have developed from these experiences.  Please describe how that will translate to your studies as a DPT student and your career as a Physical Therapist.

  References

A minimum of three letters of reference are required and should be submitted directly through PTCAS . Among the three references, one must be a physical therapist who has supervised the applicant in a health setting and one must be a college professor or instructor who has directly instructed the applicant.

  PT Observation Hours

Applicants must acquire firsthand knowledge of physical therapy by working, observing or volunteering in a health-related facility. Experience in a variety of physical therapy settings is beneficial, and most successful applicants report at least 50 hours completed by the time of application. All hours must be verified by a licensed physical therapist. The electronic signature in PTCAS is preferred; uploaded, signed forms are also acceptable.

  International Applicants

All applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in the English language by scoring 100 (Internet-based)/600 (paper-based) or higher on the Test of English as a Foreign Language ( TOEFL ). Official TOEFL scores must be submitted to PTCAS via ETS code 5312.

Applicants who have earned a post-secondary degree from an institution where the official language of instruction is English are not required to submit TOEFL scores.

For degrees completed outside of the U.S. and Canada, an official evaluation from World Education Services is required and should be sent directly to PTCAS .

  Supplemental Application Fee

A supplemental application fee of $50 is the only item sent directly to Northwestern University; all other materials are submitted via PTCAS.

The supplemental fee is due by the Dec. 1 firm application deadline. Visit the online portal  to submit the fee. If you prefer, a check or money order payable to "NUPTHMS" may be mailed to:

Office of Admission, Application Fee Northwestern University, PTHMS 645 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 1100 Chicago, IL 60611

The supplemental Northwestern fee will only be waived for applicants who have received the PTCAS fee waiver . Please forward your PTCAS fee waiver confirmation email to [email protected] .

  GRE (no longer required)

As of 2021, GRE scores will no longer be factored into the application review process.

COVID-19 Admissions Requirements

Exceptions to the admissions requirements due to covid-19.

• Prerequisite Courses For the time period impacted by COVID-19 where alternative grading was utilized, we will accept course grades of Pass, Satisfactory, or a letter grade of C or higher for prerequisite courses.
• Online Labs If you were enrolled in an Anatomy lab course that ended up moving online, we will accept online Anatomy labs for the time period affected by COVID-19. We currently accept online labs for all other prerequisite courses. 
• PTCAS Essay Applicants will be given the opportunity to explain how they have been impacted (educationally, personally or professionally) by COVID-19. ​

If there is anything we can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to call us at (312)- 503-0988 or via email: [email protected]

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, northwestern university admission requirements: what to expect.

Hey folks! Northwestern University has been on my radar, but I'd like to know more about their admission requirements. How demanding is the admissions process there? Any pointers on how I can bring more value to my application?

Hey there! Northwestern University is a highly selective institution, so the admissions process can be quite competitive. While there aren't any guaranteed ways to secure an admission, there are certain aspects of your application that you should focus on to better your chances. Here are some of the important factors in the admissions process and how you might be able to add more value to your application:

1. Academics: Northwestern values a strong academic record, so it's crucial to have excellent grades, along with challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors. Some weight is also placed on class rank, but this varies by high school.

2. Test scores: Although Northwestern is test-optional, submitting high test scores (if you have them) can help boost your application, provided they are in line with the middle 50% test score range for accepted students. Research their admitted student profile for a better idea of what scores to aim for.

3. Extracurricular activities: Northwestern looks for well-rounded candidates who can make an impact on campus. Demonstrate engagement in meaningful extracurriculars, especially those that are related to your intended major or passion, and aim for leadership or significant achievements in Tier 1 or Tier 2 activities, for example, state competitions or holding a significant leadership role in the student body.

4. Essays: Write compelling essays that give insight into who you are, your passions, and your experiences. For Northwestern, in addition to the Common App essay, you'll need to write a "Why Northwestern?" supplement essay. Show your knowledge of the university, its programs and resources, as well as how you plan on taking advantage of them.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Secure strong letters from teachers who know you well and can speak to your work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and character. Ideally, these teachers should be from core academic subjects: math, science, history, English, or foreign language.

6. Resume or CV (optional): If you have additional accomplishments, work experiences, or internships that can't be fully explained on the Common App or in your essays, submitting a well-organized resume could add value to your application.

7. Demonstrated interest: Although not a major factor, Northwestern may take demonstrated interest into account. Attending virtual information sessions, visiting their website, or connecting with admissions officers can potentially show your genuine interest in the university, helping your chances.

Keep in mind, these are just general guidelines, and there's no exact formula to guarantee admission. Just make sure to focus on these key components and present the best version of yourself through your application, and you'll be well-prepared. Good luck!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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Apply for a Full-Time MBA

Applying to the Full-Time Kellogg MBA Program

Discover key tips on how to prepare for and navigate the application process.

We are thrilled you’re interested in the Kellogg School of Management and can’t wait to learn more about you. Our application process is designed to give us a sense of who you are, what drives you, and why you think Kellogg is the right place for you. And just remember — you’re not alone in this process! Our admissions team is available to answer any questions you may have.

As you get started, and throughout this process, we recommend becoming familiar with what is required for each section of the application. You’ll see information and key resources sprinkled out below to help you prepare, navigate and successfully complete your application.

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While test scores and work experience are an important part of an application, your candidacy isn't based on those components alone. We take everything into account, including your values, goals, and the impact you’ve had on your organization.

We value individuals who:

• Approach business problems with a mix of hard and soft skills.
• Seek to adapt to the evolving business world with open curiosity and innovation.
• Believe in strong, empathetic collaboration as a way to strengthen work, perspectives and outcomes.
• Embrace the power of diversity in your teams and networks.

What we look for:

• Academic readiness
• Work experience
• Professional goals
• Interpersonal skills

Application process

The most important thing you can do during this process is to be your authentic self. We can’t stress enough that there are no “right” or “wrong” answers. Rather, we encourage you to tell your story as authentically and honestly as possible, because we truly want to get to know you and the experiences that helped shaped you as a person, student, and employee.

Criteria for admission

Eligibility.

A bachelor’s or equivalent degree from an accredited college or university by the time of matriculation is required to apply. Previous study in business or economics is not required, with the exception of the One-Year Program . Since much of the MBA curriculum utilizes quantitative skills, we encourage students to complete introductory courses in calculus and statistics prior to enrolling.

Evaluation and Assessment

When we evaluate our applicants, a few qualities really stand out to us, including the ability to push past comfort zones and question the norm. These qualities help us understand if an applicant is ready to seize all of the opportunities that come with joining Kellogg.

The committee assesses your:

• Application responses
• Transcripts

Test scores

• Letters of recommendation
• Interview report

Video essays

For international candidates, the committee also assesses:

• TOEFL or IELTS

Professional experience

The committee also values professional experience, including military service, that has provided a breadth and depth of skills and experiences to serve as a foundation for the MBA classroom. We look for people who are not afraid to question the status quo, can motivate a team to drive impact, and are eager to dive in and collaborate with an engaged, ambitious community of peers.

Program of interest

There is no "one-size-fits-all" when it comes to business, so why should your MBA be any different? At Kellogg, we are proud to offer five distinct Full-Time MBA Programs  — One-Year , Two-Year , MBAi , MMM , and JD-MBA  — all uniquely designed to fit your personal and professional goals. If you haven’t already, we highly encourage you to research all program options to make sure you’ve found the right fit for your needs.

Each applicant is allowed to apply to one full-time Kellogg program per year . Once you submit your application, you will be given the option to select one alternate Full-Time MBA program of interest and/or the Kellogg Evening and Weekend MBA program. Individuals who select an alternate program will be asked to provide a short paragraph explaining why they are also interested in the alternate program.

These components of the application are core to evaluating your experience and aptitude, giving us a better idea of your ability to tackle the challenging MBA curriculum.

Tips for Employment and Resume/CV

You’ll be asked to provide a current resume or CV as part of the application. It should be similar to one you would use for a job application, but tailored to a more general audience as it will be reviewed by those with different backgrounds. You are not obligated to submit it in a specific format or length. Instead, try to ensure our team can look at your resume and application and easily understand your professional background and accomplishments.

In addition to submitting a copy of your resume/CV, you’ll also complete an employment section of the application to provide us with a more in-depth understanding of your career history, key transitions between jobs, and promotions. Make sure to double-check the accuracy of the information in this section.

Education and transcripts

Your education is a major part of how you got here today, and we want to make sure we understand all parts of it. We ask that you list all colleges, universities and study abroad programs you have attended or are currently attending. Please note:

• If the grades you received from a study abroad program are on your transcripts, you do not need to submit a separate transcript for that program.
• If the grades from your study abroad program are not included in your transcript, you do need to submit a separate transcript for that program.
• Transcripts from transfer programs are not required if grades are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution.
• Hard copies of official transcripts are only required upon matriculation.
• Your transcripts must have a conferred date or you will need to submit a copy of your diploma and you must have a conferred degree prior to your expected matriculation to Kellogg.
• Applicants accepted to the JD-MBA Program must submit two sets of official transcripts — one to Kellogg and one to Northwestern Law.
• If academic records and diplomas are not originally issued in English, you must submit both the original record and an authorized verbatim English translation.

All records must show your name, the name of the institution, enrollment dates, courses taken, units of credit, marks or ratings in each subject, and rank in the total class or group (if available).

Kellogg requires you to submit a GMAT, GMAT Focus, or GRE score; no preference is given to one particular test so choose the option that works best for you. If you’re interested in seeing a typical score range, check out our latest Class Profile. Note that we do not have a minimum acceptable score.

Please request that official test scores are sent to Kellogg by using one of the following school codes:

• Our GMAT and GMAT Focus code is 6WZ-3J-89.
• Our GRE code is 7921.

Important facts

• For those submitting a test score, you must submit a complete application prior to the expiration date of your GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE score.
• Only valid test scores will be considered.
• Test scores are just one criterion our admissions team considers and not the only indicator for success in business school.
• GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE scores are valid for five years.

Kellogg is unique in that we ask you to complete written essays as part of the application as well as video essays. This is your chance to tell us why you think Kellogg is the right place for you. Take some time to think through the experiences that led you here and how they have shaped where you want to go.

Written essays

The following two essays are required of all applicants:

Question 1 (450 words)

Kellogg Leaders are primed to tackle today’s pressing concerns everywhere, from the boardroom to their neighborhoods. Tell us about a time in your life where you’ve needed a combination of skills to solve a problem or overcome a challenge. Which skills did you use? What did you accomplish ?

Question 2   (450 words)

At Kellogg, our values are based on research that concludes organizations comprised of leaders with varied backgrounds and perspectives outperform homogeneous ones. How do you believe your personal and professional experiences to date will help to enrich the Kellogg community?

C ertain applicants will respond to an additional question about their interest in our specialty programs. Reapplicants will receive a prompt about their growth since their last application:  How have you grown or changed personally and professionally since you previously applied and what steps have you taken to become the strongest candidate you can be? (250 words)

We've read your essays, we've read your resume — now we want you to bring all that to life in a video. Show us the person behind all those carefully crafted words. The video will be comprised of three questions, each designed to help you showcase your personality and share some of the experiences that brought you here today.

We find these videos to be a great opportunity for you to tell us more about your story, experiences and why Kellogg is the right place for you.

Here are some things to keep in mind as you prepare to complete this section:

• Video essays are due 96 hours after the application deadline.
• A video essay link will appear on your application status page after you submit your application and payment.
• You will need an internet-connected computer with a webcam and microphone
• The video should take about 20-25 minutes to complete, which includes time for setup.

After submitting your application and payment, you will be able to access the video essay through your application status page.

Here are some additional tips:

• There are practice questions that you may complete as many times as you like to get comfortable with the format and technology. The practice questions and experience will simulate the actual video essay experience, so this is meant to be a useful tool to help you feel prepared.
• We encourage you to practice so you are comfortable with the format once it is time to complete the official questions. You will not have an opportunity to re-do the answer to the official video essay questions.
• You will have 20 seconds to think about the question and up to one minute to give your response.

Letters of recommendation are particularly useful to us because they provide insight into your experience and accomplishments as a leader through the eyes of someone else.

You’ll need to submit two letters of recommendation for your application to be considered complete. Ideally, one letter should come from a current supervisor or manager. The second should come from someone who can evaluate your professional performance and your managerial/leadership potential (e.g., former supervisor, previous employer, client).

Please choose your recommenders carefully as additional letters of support are neither required nor encouraged.

Have your recommenders respond to the following prompts:

• Kellogg has a diverse student body and values students who are inclusive and encouraging of others with differing perspectives and backgrounds. Please tell us about a time when you witnessed the candidate living these values. (300 words)
• How does the candidate's performance compare to those of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles? Please provide specific examples. (300 words)
• Describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the candidate. Please detail the circumstances and the applicant's response. (250 words)

The application fee is $250. Submit your payment via credit card with the application. Do not send payments directly to Kellogg.

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• Candidates employed by Teach For America, AmeriCorps or the Peace Corps within the past three years.
• Forte MBA Launch, JumpStart Network, Posse Scholar, Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA) and Riordan Program members, fellows and alumni. Those who request an app fee waiver at the time of submitting their applications will be prompted to provide supporting documentation for review. 

Active duty U.S. military or U.S. military veterans, Teach For America, AmeriCorps or Peace Corps applicants:

If you qualify for a fee waiver, send a formal request to [email protected] before you submit your application. Provide supporting evidence of your current employment or military status. Military applicants should submit either a pay stub or a letter from a commanding officer to verify active duty status. For military veterans who have completed service within the last three years, please submit a copy of Form DD-214. 

Candidates may not be considered for more than one program at a time. Please note that all application fees are non-refundable.

The interview provides an opportunity for you to learn more about our community. It also allows the admissions committee to further evaluate your interpersonal and communication skills, career focus and motivations for pursuing a Kellogg MBA.

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All interviews are currently virtual. You will receive an email regarding the status of your interview and scheduling instructions.

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Due to the high demand for interviews and the limited availability of interviewers, you may receive an interview waiver. If your interview is waived, the admissions committee may contact you if further information is needed to make a decision on your candidacy.

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You may not change your interview after it is scheduled. If you are unable to attend your interview, please contact the Office of Admissions at 847.491.3308 to cancel your request and the office will issue an interview waiver. Waivers do not have an impact on an applicant's candidacy; we will reach out directly if further information is needed to render a decision.

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We strongly recommend that you have at least two years of full-time work experience upon matriculation. We firmly believe work experience will enrich your academic experience and allow you to fully participate in classroom discussions and group projects.

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Applying early may be advantageous for grants, scholarships or on-campus housing preferences. Candidates who apply in Round 1 or 2 can also take advantage of our admitted-student weekends.

We admit candidates for all programs during all three rounds. We encourage international candidates to apply in Round 1 or 2 to allow time for visa processing. We also tend to admit One-Year MBA and MMM students in Round 1 or 2 to accommodate the programs’ early start date.

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You may submit employment changes, grades for recent classes, or new test scores to your application after submitting it. We encourage you to add this update directly to your application. To do this, please sign in to your application and then add your update in the supplemental information page. Please note that there is no guarantee that we will consider this information prior to rendering a decision.

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Make sure you keep these important dates on your radar throughout your application process.

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Once our decisions are made, we will email you a link to your application status page where you can learn of your acceptance status.

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Successful Application

In addition to the Coalition Application and the Common Application, students must also respond to Northwestern-specific questions to provide the Admissions Committee with a fuller sense of you as a person—including your academic, extracurricular and intellectual interests.

Additional Questions

300 words or fewer

Help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.

Helpful Resources

How To Answer The “Why This College” Essay Prompt

We’ll go over the best ways to approach the 'Why This College" essay and provide helpful tips to help you write an effective essay that impresses admission officers.

How To Format & Structure Your College Application Essay

Your essays are a chance for admissions officers to get to know you beyond your grades, test scores, and ECLs. But how do you craft essays that reflect who you are AND impress the admissions officers?

Everything You Need To Know About The Supplemental Essays

Supplemental essays are required by many highly selective institutions in addition to the personal essay included in your Common Application. You can learn all about what they are and why they’re important here.

Get Your Essay Reviewed

Feel confident when submitting your college application essay by getting it reviewed by a professional admissions expert..

Northwestern University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 3

You Have: 

Northwestern University 2023-24 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 2028, 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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Why Northwestern Essay Examples

Why northwestern essay examples – introduction .

As one of the top research universities in the country, Northwestern places a lot of emphasis on applicants’ essays. So, if you’re wondering how to get into Northwestern, start by reviewing our Why Northwestern essay examples. That way, you’ll have the tools you need to craft strong Northwestern essays.

In this guide, we will look at several Why Northwestern essay examples. We will examine two Why Northwestern essay examples and discuss what made them effective. We’ll also look at the current Northwestern essay prompts and Northwestern supplemental essay requirements.

Why Northwestern Essay Examples: The Prompt

Beyond the Common App essay, there’s only one additional Northwestern essay prompt—the Why Northwestern essay:

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community. In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond. 

Later in this article, we’ll look at various Why Northwestern essay examples. You’ll notice that there aren’t multiple Northwestern essay prompts. This makes your Why Northwestern essay all the more important. Use our Why Northwestern essay examples as a blueprint for your own writing. However, always make sure your essay is your own work. 

In this guide, we’ll look at two successful Why Northwestern essay examples . Then, we’ll discuss what made these Why Northwestern essay examples so impactful. That way, you can approach the Northwestern essay prompt with confidence.

Beyond supplemental essays

Of course, your Northwestern essays aren’t the only aspect of the admissions process. Beyond our Why Northwestern essay examples, we’ll also discuss other elements of the application process. We will review the Northwestern admissions requirements, the Northwestern application, and the Northwestern acceptance rate. 

Now, let’s take a look at some Why Northwestern essay examples. In addition to the Why Northwestern essay examples themselves, we will also provide a breakdown of why they worked and how they successfully addressed the Northwestern essay prompt. Finally, we’ll discuss how important the Why Northwestern essay is to the overall Northwestern admissions process. 

Why Northwestern essay examples 

The following Why Northwestern essay examples were written by students who were accepted to Northwestern University. These Why Northwestern essay examples are intended to provide you with an example of successful Northwestern supplemental essays. All names and personal details in these Northwestern supplemental essays examples have been redacted and/or changed for anonymity. 

After each of these Northwestern supplemental essays examples, we will discuss why these are good responses to Northwestern essay prompts. 

Here’s the first of our Why Northwestern essay examples: 

Why Northwestern Essay Example #1

No matter the research made by scientists on climate change, if politicians don’t accept scientific evidence and pass environmental legislation, the world will suffer greater consequences from climate change. As a political science major at Northwestern, I’ll acquire the skills necessary to pass future legislation that puts the environment and people above the interests of corporations.

I believe that being able to incorporate multiple areas of study can greatly deepen my ability to understand environmental advocacy. With Northwestern’s interdisciplinary curriculum, I’d explore how policy, law, and political philosophy intersect with the process of passing environmental legislation. By taking the “U.S. Environmental Politics” course, for example, I’ll learn how to implement effective environmental policies, both on the international and domestic scale, while also considering the economic, legal, and ethical issues involved.

Regardless of how many hours I spend in the classroom, however, I believe that my knowledge is less meaningful if I can’t apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to lead initiatives that can advocate for the environment. Through the Chicago Field Studies program, I’d be thrilled to take on civic engagement internships and explore how climate change is intertwined with poverty. I’ll also jump at the opportunity to utilize the Ginsberg Research Grant and initiate my own research with professors like Chloe Thurston, who specializes in policy research. It would be an honor to work with faculty members and conduct research on how interest groups affect environmental management compromises.

Outside of the classroom, I’m excited to join the Associated Student Government organization, where I’d work with administrators to promote Northwestern’s environmental sustainability and strive to make the Northwestern experience even better for students.

With the knowledge and experiences I gain at Northwestern, I’ll work to pass the future environmental policies that our world needs.

Why This Essay Worked

This sample of our Northwestern supplemental essays examples successfully addresses the Why School essay prompt for several reasons.

First, the opening of this Why Northwestern essay example is a bold statement. The author sees themselves fixing an issue because of what they will major in and learn at Northwestern. 

They mention their academic interests and future major at Northwestern in the introductory paragraph. This allows the Northwestern admissions officer to quickly understand what is important to the writer. It’s clear that this author has specific career goals. Instead of just mentioning those goals, they explain how attending Northwestern will help them reach these goals. 

Getting specific

The first of our Why Northwestern essay examples specifically mentions Northwestern’s interdisciplinary curriculum. This shows that the writer has done their research on Northwestern. More importantly, it shows how they will use their time on campus to reach their goals. 

Additionally, this author mentions a specific course at Northwestern by name: U.S. Environmental Politics. This successfully addresses the prompt’s question about “how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here.” 

The first of our Why Northwestern essay examples discusses how the author would interact with U.S. Environmental Politics. They also describe what they would learn in this course, which ties back to their academic interests. 

Then, the author references resources outside of the classroom. In particular, the Chicago Field Studies program and conducting research with a Northwestern professor. Again, this shows that the writer of the first of our Why Northwestern essay examples has done their research. They know specific aspects of Northwestern that they are excited to explore. 

Finding your place

This writer also describes a specific community at Northwestern that they are excited to join: the Associated Student Government organization. This shows how the applicant will engage with the larger Northwestern community. 

This whole essay ties back to the writer’s interests in political science, enacting change, and revolutionizing environmental policies. They mention specific Northwestern resources, communities, and opportunities throughout their response. They also connect these opportunities to their own goals. That way, they answer the prompt’s question: “ how they may enrich their time at Northwestern and beyond.” 

You can learn a lot from our Why Northwestern essay examples as you write your own Northwestern essay. This sample shows you how to incorporate specific features that are unique to Northwestern in your essay. 

Applying this Why Northwestern essay example to your writing

Take your cues from this example essay as you start drafting. While you should do your research, you don’t want to just copy/paste information from the Northwestern website. The admissions team knows what Northwestern has to offer—as they read your essay, they want to see how you’d enrich Northwestern’s campus.

So, refer to the first of our Why Northwestern essay examples. Think about how this writer paints a picture of how they’d engage with Northwestern’s community. How can you explain how you plan to engage with whatever resource/opportunity/community you referenced?

Effective Northwestern essay examples also bring the focus back to your own interests and goals. Northwestern admissions wants to know more about you . Don’t just tell them about Northwestern—instead, bring the focus back to you. The first of our Why Northwestern essay examples does just that.

Keeping it concrete

Finally, strong Northwestern essay examples are intentional. Are you intentional about the resources you highlight in your own Northwestern essay? The author of the first of our Why Northwestern essay examples was interested in political science at Northwestern. In doing so, they will “acquire the skills necessary to pass future legislation that puts the environment and people above the interests of corporations.”  

In the first Northwestern essay example, the writer clearly shows how Northwestern would help them reach their goal. They mention Northwestern’s interdisciplinary curriculum and the U.S. Environmental Politics course. They also mention the Chicago Field Studies Program, the Ginsburg Research grant, and Professor Chloe Thurston. Finally, they include extracurricular engagements by highlighting the Associated Student Government organization.

All of these resources connect back to the author’s interests and goals. This makes it easy for Northwestern admissions officers to see what interests the author and how Northwestern will benefit them. It also shows the reader how the applicant will be a great fit in the larger Northwestern community. Ultimately, that is the entire purpose of the Why School essay. 

Now that we have examined one of the Why Northwestern essays examples and why it worked, let’s dive into the second of our Northwestern supplemental essays examples. 

Below is the second of our Why Northwestern essay examples: 

Why Northwestern Essay Example #2

“What is the function of hydrophilic heads?” my AP Biology teacher asked the class.

All that could be heard was the sound of multiple classmates snoring in unison and the tapping of several students on their cell phones.

I had already answered the past 5 questions… Should I answer this one?

School is not a source of enjoyment for most of my classmates. Though the goal was to graduate, the pathway was often marred with cheating, plagiarism, and a lack of motivation to pursue something greater than the average.

At Northwestern however, no such situation would ever take place. The community of students, though from diverse backgrounds, all share the same goal to learn to their greatest potential and will do anything to share it.

In addition to the support such classmates would provide is the faculty of distinguished professors Northwestern has at its disposal. With the quarter system that allows students to take multiple classes outside their major, having such an array of top professors to choose from will guarantee that whichever path I may take will ensure a quality education. Though I plan to major in a Neuroscience-related program as a pre-medical student, I have many interests that have accumulated for years but remained untouched due to circumstances. With my professors as mentors, I would be able to conduct research in these areas, setting an invincible foundation that will increase my vitality in the medical field.  

Coming from a background such as mine to such a collaborative community would be a huge adjustment, but it is one I am excited to make. Having the opportunity to interact/work with people who are genuinely passionate about their fields is an invaluable asset that will motivate me to push harder in spite of any challenges I may face in the future.

The second of our Why Northwestern essay examples is different from the first one. Still, it is just as successful at addressing the prompt. Remember, not all Why Northwestern essays examples are the same.

Strong introduction

The second of our Northwestern supplemental essays examples starts with a quote, which immediately places the reader into the story. This can be a very effective and creative way of beginning your own Northwestern essay. 

This quote then opens into a broader narrative. The beginning of this Northwestern essay explains the academic environment in the author’s high school. In doing so, it highlights how this student operates in a classroom and why they’d succeed at Northwestern.

Then, they connect the opening story to what they want to experience at Northwestern. This instantly shows how they value the community of Northwestern and how they can see themselves joining it. 

Highlighting academic interests

Next, the author uses Northwestern faculty and the quarter system to highlight their own academic interests and future major. Eye-catching Northwestern supplemental essays examples mention specific attributes of Northwestern University—like this essay does. 

Like the first of our Why Northwestern essay examples, this author also explains how they’ll engage with these resources. Additionally, the author connects these resources back to their own interests and goals. 

Finally, good Northwestern supplemental essays examples show excitement about joining the larger Northwestern community. They express genuine interest in becoming a part of the Northwestern community, showing the reader they’re committed to Northwestern. 

Essay examples are a guide, not a blueprint

All successful essays will have their own distinct voice and character. As you likely noticed, this essay is different from the first of our Why Northwestern essay examples. Still, you can learn a lot from this and other strong Northwestern supplemental essays examples. Keep these points in mind as you begin writing your own Northwestern essay. 

Some Why Northwestern essay examples also use humor to get the reader’s attention. If used well, humor can be an effective tool to get the reader on your side. Obviously, don’t feel pressured to include humor if it’s not natural for you. We can’t all be the next Terry Pratchett! At the same time, Northwestern admissions officers read thousands of essays each application cycle. If you can incorporate some humor into your own Northwestern essay, it’s likely to stand out from the crowd. 

Finally, all impactful Northwestern supplemental essays examples show how the author genuinely wants to join the Northwestern community.  The Northwestern essay prompt assesses how committed you are to Northwestern. So, discuss specific communities at Northwestern that interest you. This will help the reader understand how well you’ll fit into Northwestern. 

Curious about other Northwestern supplemental essays examples? Check out our guide here . In it, you’ll find two additional Northwestern supplemental essays examples. We also explain why these Northwestern supplemental essays examples worked. 

Northwestern Supplemental Essay Requirements

You’ve seen some Northwestern essay examples and gotten some useful tips to craft your own. Now, let’s look at the Northwestern supplemental essay requirements. But before we do, let’s take a closer look at the school itself. Remember, the more you know about Northwestern, the stronger your Northwestern essays will be.

Northwestern University

In reading our Why Northwestern essay examples, you probably noticed that the authors have done their research. So, before you complete the Northwestern supplemental essay requirements, let’s take a closer look at the school.

Northwestern University is a private university founded in 1851. Located in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern has a total undergraduate enrollment of 8,494 students. The overall student population at Northwestern is 25,870. 

According to U.S. News and World Report , Northwestern University is ranked #10 in National Universities (tied with Duke University). Forbes ranks Northwestern as #11 in their list of Top Colleges of 2022 and #9 in their list of Top Private Colleges. 

Because Northwestern is an elite private university, Northwestern admissions is considered most selective. The Northwestern acceptance rate is 7% . Admitted students have a 1460–1560 SAT score or a 33–35 ACT score. 

Since the Northwestern acceptance rate is so competitive, it’s important that your Northwestern supplemental essays stand out to the Northwestern admissions officers. By writing strong essays, you can boost your chances of admission. Use our Why Northwestern essay examples to guide you as you begin writing your own Northwestern essay. 

Be sure to refer to this guide often as you write your own Northwestern essay. Reviewing the Northwestern supplemental essays examples can help you brainstorm ideas for your own Northwestern supplemental essays. 

Northwestern requires applicants to complete two essays (including the personal statement). The first Northwestern supplemental essay can be found on the Common Application or Coalition Application. The second Northwestern essay is the Northwestern writing supplement. 

Why Northwestern Essay

We’ve looked at some Why Northwestern essays examples. Now, let’s spend a bit more time with the Northwestern essay prompt: 

Essentially, the Northwestern supplemental essay prompt asks students to explain why they would like to attend Northwestern. You’ve seen this prompt in our Northwestern essay examples. This is a classic Why School essay—you’ll find similar prompts on many applications. The Why Northwestern essays are open-ended, which gives applicants plenty of flexibility as they craft their response to this Why School essay. 

When you write your own Why Northwestern essays, you can choose to include one or several aspects of the university in your response. As you saw in our Why Northwestern essay examples, strong essays don’t all look the same. However, you should try to highlight specific resources only available at Northwestern.  

However, Why Northwestern essays should not just reiterate information that can be found on the university website. Instead, you will want to relate the content of your Northwestern essay to your own interests, background, or experiences. Think about our Why Northwestern essay examples. While they highlight Northwestern’s resources, these Northwestern essays still give the reader a clear sense of the writer’s background, interests, and goals.

Northwestern Admissions Requirements

In addition to your Why Northwestern essays, Northwestern admissions also requires two letters of recommendation along with your Northwestern application:

• One from your high school counselor
• One from a high school teacher (ideally from junior or senior year)

It’s important to ask for letters of recommendation from people that know you well. Your teacher should be able to speak to your achievements both inside and outside of the classroom. 

College Recommendation Letter Sample & FAQs

For the 2022-2023 Northwestern admissions cycle, test scores are optional. If you choose to submit your test scores, Northwestern will review them and assign a “superscore” to your Northwestern application. In other words, if you took the SAT or ACT multiple times, Northwestern admissions only considers your highest scores.

Students will also submit an activity chart with their Northwestern application. This activity chart is your chance to provide additional details about your extracurricular activities and involvements outside of your high school courses. 

Finally, alumni interviews are an optional component of the Northwestern application process. These interviews are available online or in person on a limited basis. Your chance of admission will not be negatively impacted if you are unable to complete an alumni interview. 

For more about how to get into Northwestern, completing your Northwestern application, and the Why Northwestern essay, visit Northwestern’s website . 

Do you have more questions about how to write supplemental essays? Check out our CollegeAdvisor Masterclass on supplemental essays. In it you’ll get the inside scoop on how to approach, write, and edit your supplemental essays for college. 

How do you answer the why Northwestern essay? 

This Northwestern essay prompt is a classic take on the Why School essay. Essentially, the Northwestern essay prompt asks you to do two things. First, explain how you see yourself engaging with the community at Northwestern. Second, describe how you plan to utilize specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities at Northwestern. 

In other words, the purpose of the Northwestern essay prompt is to understand how you will enrich a specific community at Northwestern and how you will engage with the aspects of Northwestern that interest you the most. 

Both parts of the Northwestern essay prompt are intentionally broad and open-ended. This means that you have free rein to mention how you will enrich any community—academic, cultural, or social—at Northwestern. Additionally, it’s important to include as many specific details as you can in your Northwestern essay. You can reference specific student organizations, courses, traditions, or school-specific programs in your response to this Northwestern essay prompt. 

Your Northwestern essay should be well-written and filled with resources and examples that are unique to Northwestern. You should avoid recycling your response to the Northwestern essay prompt to another Why School essay prompt.  

Now that we have examined this Why School essay prompt, let’s jump into strategies for strong Why Northwestern essays. 

Approaching your Why Northwestern Essay

First, you’ll want to start brainstorming ideas for your Why Northwestern essays. Think about why you added Northwestern to your college list . Are you interested in a particular major at Northwestern? Were you attracted to a specific program that Northwestern offers? 

If you can’t pinpoint why you want to attend Northwestern, don’t worry. You can do a deep dive on the Northwestern University website to find facets of Northwestern that interest you the most. 

Remember, you want to be able to write a well-crafted Northwestern essay, so focus on the aspects of Northwestern that are interesting to you . The strongest Why Northwestern essays are honest and authentic.

 Do some research

Make a list to keep track of things you find appealing about Northwestern. It’s okay not to include everything on your list in your Why Northwestern essays. However, having something to refer to will keep you organized as you begin the writing process. 

Because this Why School essay asks you to explain “how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community,” you will want to explicitly define which community you are referring to in your Northwestern supplemental essays. You’ll see a sample of this in the Why Northwestern essay examples below. 

Think about the communities you are involved in. Which communities at Northwestern can you see yourself engaging in? Are there any specific communities that stand out at you because of your own background, passions, and interests? 

Now that you have a list of specific resources, opportunities, and communities that interest you (and that are unique to Northwestern), you can begin writing. 

Make every word count

At 300 words or fewer, every word in Why Northwestern essays has to count. As you read and edit your essay, refer back to the Northwestern essay prompt.

Make sure your Northwestern supplemental essays:

• Answer all parts of the prompt
• Mention specific resources or opportunities that you plan to pursue at Northwestern
• Emphasize how you are a great fit for the Northwestern community

Don’t just copy and paste information from the Northwestern admissions website into your Northwestern supplemental essay. Instead, show the admissions committee that you have done your research. Effective Why Northwestern essays authentically show interest. Your essay should highlight how you’ll make an impact on campus. 

If you are still unsure of what all of this looks like in written form, don’t worry. The Why Northwestern essay examples in this guide are both successful at addressing the prompt. Each of the Why Northwestern essay examples will provide you with a good idea of how to structure strong Why Northwestern essays. 

For more tips on writing Why Northwestern essays, check out our Northwestern supplemental essays guide from 2021. Also, take a look at our 2020 Northwestern University essay guide. Lastly, for the Northwestern application as a whole, check out our guide on how to get into Northwestern.

Are there other Northwestern essay prompts? 

There is only one Northwestern supplemental essay prompt—the Why Northwestern essay. However, note that Northwestern will also evaluate your Common App essay. 

It is possible that the Northwestern essay prompts may change from year to year. So, it’s important to verify the essay prompts for Northwestern (and other colleges) before you begin crafting your own college essays. 

If you are a junior or underclassman, you can still benefit from the Why Northwestern essay examples in this guide. Certainly, the Northwestern essay prompts might change before you write your Why Northwestern essays. However, it’s still beneficial to read successful Why Northwestern essay examples. 

Want to learn more about how to write about yourself? Check out our webinar on how to write the Common App personal statement. Or watch this webinar to hear from an admissions officer on how to make your essays shine. 

How important is the Why Northwestern essay? 

The Why Northwestern essay is an incredibly important part of your “how to get into Northwestern” strategy. Strong Why Northwestern essays are the backbone of a good Northwestern application. 

Northwestern receives thousands of applications each admissions cycle from qualified applicants. With more students applying to college than ever before, it’s safe to assume that the Northwestern acceptance rate will continue to fall. 

Because the Northwestern acceptance rate is so competitive, it is important to do what you can to make your application stand out . To stand a chance against the low Northwestern acceptance rate, your Northwestern application has to sparkle.

Northwestern University wants applicants who want to be a part of the Northwestern community. Why Northwestern essays are the best way for you to demonstrate exactly that. 

Northwestern essay reflection questions

• How committed are you to Northwestern? 
• Why are you a great fit for the Northwestern community? 
• How will attending Northwestern help you reach your goals? 

Why Northwestern essays can answer these questions (and more) for the admissions team. Remember how the authors in our Northwestern supplemental essays examples answered these questions in their own responses? They were successful in addressing the prompt and provided specific, concrete examples throughout their essays. Additionally, both Northwestern supplemental essays examples were written in a way that made them memorable.  You’ll want to do the same in your own Northwestern essays. 

Use the Why Northwestern essays to show how well you will fit into the larger Northwestern community. Each of the Northwestern supplemental essays examples show you how to do this successfully. Obviously, be sure to do your research before writing your Why Northwestern essays. The Northwestern essay prompt asks for specifics . So, make sure you clearly state why Northwestern is the perfect school for you. 

Your Northwestern essay can showcase other parts of you that are not otherwise included in your Northwestern application. This will help the admissions team understand what makes you a unique applicant, which will help you stand out from the crowd. 

Above all, be authentic in your responses to the Why Northwestern essays. You want to express a genuine interest in your Why Northwestern essays, like in the Northwestern supplemental essays examples.

How to Get Into Northwestern Guide

Why Northwestern essay examples – Final thoughts

It’s easy to leave your Why Northwestern essay to the last minute. However, your supplemental essays are a key part of your applications. Think of your college essays as an opportunity for your admissions officer to learn more about who you are, what matters to you, and how you will enrich the community at your chosen college. 

The best college essays will highlight your background, identity, and interests. A strong essay will also showcase what makes you a unique applicant and how you will be a great addition to your future college community. 

Do your research

The Northwestern supplemental essays are your opportunity to stand out from other applicants. As you strategize about how to get into Northwestern, be sure to do your research. First, spend time on the Northwestern University website to find specific resources, opportunities, or communities at Northwestern that appeal to you.

Then, make a list of these unique offerings as you research Northwestern. Review your list to determine what excites you the most about attending Northwestern. Use that specific example(s) and incorporate them into your Northwestern supplemental essays. 

Try to align your background, passions, and interests with how you will make an impact on the Northwestern community. You want the Northwestern admissions reader to understand your and why you’ll be a great fit for the Northwestern community. 

Refer to several successful Northwestern supplemental essays examples. Remember, a well-crafted and engaging Northwestern essay will boost your chances of admission. 

Remember to revise

Finally, be sure to revise and edit your Northwestern supplemental essays before you submit your Northwestern application. Strong Northwestern essays don’t happen overnight, so you should give yourself plenty of time to draft, edit, and proofread. You can always ask a friend, counselor, or CollegeAdvisor.com advisor to help you proofread your Why Northwestern essays.

Need more guidance with your Northwestern supplemental essays? Register with CollegeAdvisor.com today to get one-on-one support as you write your Northwestern supplemental essays. Happy writing!

This article was written by Claire Babbs . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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• SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION

Northwestern MSC Program Admission Materials

Your application should tell your story and highlight your strengths

MSC Program Requirements & Materials

What You Need To Apply

No two Northwestern MSC students are the same, and the application and admissions process is designed to address these differences.

Outline your professional experiences, skills and education history. Include any certificates, responsibilities or volunteer work you believe is relevant.

Academic Transcripts

You may upload unofficial transcripts for the purposes of admissions. You will need to provide official transcripts later on to enroll in the MSC Program.

Two References

Submit the names and contact details of two individuals who will recommend you to the program, and the MSC will contact them with a form to complete.

Tell the Admissions Committee why you’re applying to the Northwestern MSC and the contribution you will make to the rest of your cohort.

Admissions Interview

Interview in-person or virtually with a member of the Admissions Committee after submitting your application.

We’ve found that standardized test scores are not necessarily a predictor of success in the MSC program — which is why we do not require GRE or GMAT scores.

MSC Program

Get on the Fast-Track to Career Advancement

In less than a year, you’ll earn your Masters from an elite institution and gain new skills to transform yourself and the organizations you serve.

No GREs or GMATs

Rolling admissions, 1 year flexible program.

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Listen in as the MSC admissions team unpacks the MSC application materials and process.

Staff discuss the MSC application.

Northwestern MSC Application Deadlines

Apply when you're ready

Northwestern’s MSC program is competitive and space in the MSC cohort may fill up. Apply today for early consideration.

December 1, 2023

February 1, 2024

April 1, 2024

Final deadline for international applicants >>

June 1, 2024

Earn Your Masters From Northwestern University

Make your next year transformative. Start your application today.

Northwestern MSC Program Events

Connect with the Northwestern MSC Admissions team at our next event or explore webinars on-demand to learn more about applying for your MS in Communication.

2021 Alumni Consulting Panel

Webinar Recording

The Application Essay

First impressions.

“The Admissions team was incredibly welcoming and gave me a chance to express why the program enticed me.”

Stephanie Santos

Class of 2019

Toby Cortelyou and alumni Naazish YarKhan discuss the application essay.

Featured webinar

How to Craft Your Application Essay

Your essay is a critical component of your overall application.

The Essay Prompt:

Msc application interview, what to expect during the admissions interview.

Relax and converse with a member of the MSC Admissions Committee and tell us about yourself — your story, experiences and philosophies.

The Admissions Interview is meant to help us delve into who you are and why you’re applying to the program. At the same time, it’s a chance for you to get to know us and ask any questions you have.

Earn Your MS in Communication From Northwestern

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Click on the links below to start your Bienen School Supplement and review detailed application instructions from the Office of Undergraduate Admission.

Start your Bienen School Supplement View All Northwestern University Requirements

Undergraduate Application Checklist

Music prescreening (if applicable)/Composition portfolio/Bachelor of Arts application materials  via Bienen School Supplement (NOTE: ALL Bienen School applicants, regardless of chosen major, must complete this application component) 

Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir Application  sent to Northwestern University, including the non-refundable application fee of $75 or fee waiver

Secondary School Report (includes high school transcript and counselor recommendation letter)

Academic Teacher Recommendation  (request and upload via the Common or Apply Coalition with Scoir application)

Counselor Recommendation (request and upload via the Common or Apply Coalition with Scoir application)

Music Teacher Recommendation (request and upload via the Bienen School Supplement)

Music Resumé (upload via the Bienen School Supplement)

Optional for Fall 2024 Admission: Standardized Test Scores  (The Office of Undergraduate Admission has adopted a test-optional policy for fall 2024 applicants. Northwestern University accepts both the ACT and the SAT. Please review the Undergraduate Admission website  for more details). 

Early Decision Agreement (Early Decision applicants only)

Midyear Report (Regular Decision applicants only)

TOEFL,  IELTS or Duolingo English Test  exam results (international applicants only, submit to Undergraduate Admission) 

All prescreening recordings and music program requirements should be uploaded to the Bienen School of Music Supplement.

Do not mail any materials to the Bienen School of Music; items that are mailed to the Bienen School of Music will not be returned.

Fall 2024 First-Year Early Decision Timeline

NOTE: Finalists from the QuestBridge application process applying to the Bienen School must submit prescreening materials by October 15, 2023 and complete their performance audition before November 10, 2023, regardless of whether applying Early or Regular Decision.

Fall 2024 First-Year Regular Decision Timeline

NOTE: Bienen School transfer applicants are strongly encouraged to apply via Northwestern’s Regular Decision round. Application and audition deadlines may be found above. Transfer applicants who do not submit a Bienen School Supplement by December 1 will need to wait until after March 15 to schedule a live audition.

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Dual degree and double major applicants.

Applicants interested in pursuing a double major or dual degree should indicate this on the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir Application. 

When you apply for a double major or dual degree and complete all requirements, you will receive a single admission decision from Northwestern University’s Office of Undergraduate Admission . This decision will include information on which school(s) you have been accepted to within Northwestern University, including the Bienen School of Music. Northwestern offers dual degrees with the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences; the McCormick School of Engineering; the Medill School of Journalism, Media, and Integrated Marketing Communications; the School of Communication; and the School of Education and Social Policy.

Learn more about Dual Degrees and Double Majors

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See complete requirements for international applicants

International applicants to Northwestern include citizens of foreign countries in foreign education systems, citizens of foreign countries in the United States educational system, and United States citizens studying abroad. All applicants to Northwestern, international and domestic, apply using the same process and timeline. International applicants must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency. An evaluation of English proficiency includes reviewing all test scores, grades in classes taught in English, writing samples, and comments by recommenders. International applicants whose first language is not English are required to submit exam results from either the  Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System  (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET). Northwestern does not accept scores from English proficiency exams not listed above, including the TOEFL Institutional Testing Program (ITP).

Contact the Office of Music Admission, Financial Aid and Graduate Services: [email protected]  or  847-491-3141 Request Information

• SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION

Department of Radio/Television/Film 2023

Posted May 6, 2024 by akm344

Departmental Excellence Award for Undergraduate Students

Awarded to recognize undergraduates who have produced exceptional work in the areas of production and scholarly writing

• Xanthe Brown
• Eugene Brye
• Jessie Chen
• Sarah Clayton
• Samuel Garcia-Bryce
• Julianna Feit
• Lily Micheline Kaplan
• Rachel Ramirez
• Ignacio Toro
• Jackson Weber
• Kelly Wilson
• Shenxun Yao

Bindley Film Production Award

Established by Bill (C84) and Scott (C88) Bindley to fund the annual production of student films

• Daniela Morales

Chuck Kleinhans Essay Prize

The Chuck Kleinhans Essay Prize is named for film scholar, artist, activist, and radical iconoclast Chuck Kleinhans (1942-2017), Associate Professor Emeritus of the department of Radio-Televison-Film at Northwestern University, in which he served for nearly thirty years. Professor Kleinhans was an exceptional teacher and scholar who championed the intersectional, interdisciplinary, and independent in filmmaking as well as film studies. He wrote and researched voraciously about a plethora of subjects including melodrama, the films of the L.A. Rebellion, working class Hollywood heroes, and the aesthetics and politics of pornography. He also made his own experimental and documentary films and co-founded the influential film studies journal JUMP CUT with his life partner Julia Lesage in 1974. By taking JUMP CUT to a free online format in 2001, Chuck and Julia served as pioneers of the contemporary open-access scholarship movement.

The Kleinhans Essay Prize, awarded to an outstanding work of undergraduate film scholarship, was established to honor and perpetuate Chuck’s legendary and boundless enthusiasm for the work of emerging scholars. As his colleagues Catherine Grant, Michael Renov, Brian Winston, and Patricia Zimmerman attested soon after his death in December 2017, Chuck “reveled in the brilliant new ideas” of young scholars and was a “remarkable and hugely influential mentor to many important scholars” in film and media studies.

• Journey Cole Out of Sight, Out of Mind: How Illusions Uses Cinematic Illusions to Reveal Truth

Max Saines Grant

Max Saines (RTVF 2013) was a beloved member of the Northwestern community and a proud Studio 22 alum. Max passed away in June of 2019 and is remembered by many for his work at Northwestern, Endeavor Content, and beyond. He fostered a spirit of collaboration by bringing people together to make their creative dreams a reality, and we hope to do the same with this grant. In his honor, this grant will be offered yearly to a writer/director team with a shared vision for a unique narrative short film. This grant is made possible by Emily Gerson Saines (SOC 1986) and Andy Saines, Max’s parents.

• Jaila Carey
• Alivia Wynn

Joann Torretta Award

Established in honor of Joann Torretta, a member of the School of Communication class of 1953, to fund student productions

• Catherine Moore

WNUR Willis L. Butler Leadership Award

Presented to a student who has shown strong leadership in furthering WNUR; sponsored by the WNUR alumni organization

• Edwin Chalas Cuevas

Categories: Award Year 2023

DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH

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Class Schedules

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• Annual Schedule for 2024-2025

Courses Fulfilling Major and Minor Requirements

Historical breadth courses.

• English 200-0: Literary Histories (Fall 2024)
• English 200-0: Literary Histories (Winter 2025)
• English 210-1: British Literary Traditions, Part 1 (Spring 2025)
• English 213-0: Intro to Fiction (Winter 2025)
• English 266-0: Intro to African American Literature (Fall 2024)
• English 270-1: American Literary Traditions, Part 1 (Fall 2024)
• English 275-0: Topics in Asian American Lit (Spring 2025)
• English 283-0: Intro to Literature and the Environment (Shannon

Postcolonial and Comparative Literatures Courses

Fall quarter.

• English 365 (Mwangi, MW 11-12:20)

Winter Quarter

•  English 365 (Johnson, TTh 9:30-10:50)

Spring Quarter

•  English 365 (Nadiminti, TTh 3:30-4:50)

Race & Ethnicity Courses

• English 312 (Manning, W 9:30-11:50)
• English 366-0 (Wilson, TTh 11-12:20)
• English 375-0 (Huang, MW 12:30-1:50)
• English 377-0 (Rodriguez Pliego, MW 3:30-4:50)
• English 381-0 (Huang, MW 2-3:20)
• English 383-0 (Bey, TTh 2-3:20)
• English 366-0 (Spigner, TBA)
• English 374-0 (Wisecup, MW 2-3:20)
• English 375-0 (Moon, TTh 3:30-4:50)
• English 377-0 (Rodriguez Pliego, TTh 11-12:20)
• English 312-0 (Manning, W 9:30-11:50)
• English 365-0 (Nadiminti, TTh 3:30-4:50)
• English 366-0 (Mann, TTh 9:30-10:50)
• English 375-0 (Huang, MW 2-3:20)

Gender, Sexuality & Embodiment Courses

• English 338-0 (Masten, TTh 3:30-4:30)
• English 365-0 (Mwangi MW 11-12:20)
• English 313-0 (Law, TTh 2-3:20)
• English 324-0 (Newman, MWF 11-11:50)
• English 344-0 (Soni, MW 3:30-4:50)
• English 368-0 (Froula, MW 2-3:20)
• English 385-0 (Wolff, MW 3:30-4:50)
• English 386-0 (Stern, MW 11-12:20)
• English 340-0 (Thompson, TTh 2-3:20)
• English 368-0 (Froula, TTh 2-3:20)
• English 386-0 (Davis, MW 9:30-10:50)

Identities, Communities, and Social Practice Courses

• English 366 (Wilson, TTh 11-12:20)
• English 375 (Huang, MW 12:30-1:50
• English 377 (Rodriguez Pliego, MW 3:30-4:50)
• English 381 (Huang, mW 2-3:20)
• English 383 (Bey, TTh 2-3:20)
• English 385 (Godfrey, MW 9:30-10:50)
• English 313 (Law, TTH 2-3:20)
• English 366 (Spigner, TBA)
• English 374 (Wisecup, MW 2-3:20)
• English 375 (Moon, TTh 3:30-4:50)
• English 377 (Rodriguez Pliego, TTH 11-12:20)
• English 381 (Evans, TTH 3:30-4:50)
• English 385 (Wolff, MW 3:30-4:50)
• English 366 (Mann, TTH 9:30-10:50)
• English 381 (Chaskin, TTH 12:30-1:50)

Transnationalism and Textual Circulation Courses

• English 365 (Johnson, TTh 9:30-10:50)
• English 365 (Nadiminti, TTH 3:30-4:50)
• English 368 (Froula, TTH 9:30-10:50)

DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY

Prof. boyle contributes the new york times essay on trump’s trial.

May 1, 2024

Current Department Chair and Professor Kevin Boyle contributes guest essay in T he New York Times , titled   “Trump’s Trial Can Right a Wrong From 50 Years Ago”   –

Of the four criminal cases that Donald Trump is facing, the one unfolding in Manhattan is generally considered the weakest. Its legal foundation is complex. Its key witness is a felon. Its details are the sort of stuff that the tabloids splash across their front pages…   Read the full article.

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THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

• Application Procedures

Non-Degree Exchange Students

The Graduate School at Northwestern University participates in multiple partnerships and exchange programs to provide students with the opportunity to study abroad.

Participating NU PhD Programs :  

• Comparative Literary Studies  
• English  
• French and Francophone Studies  
• History  
• Sociology  
• Philosophy  
• Political Science  

International Partner Institutions:  

• Ecole Normale Superieure Paris  
• Ecole Normale Superieure Lyon  

Application Procedures:

For students applying to northwestern university for non-degree graduate study.

• When prompted to select an Academic Program (page 3), applicants should choose Exchange Program X10ND . The program name is also listed under the Interdisciplinary Organization.  
• On the Academic Program page (page 4), you will be asked, “ Are you applying as a dual-degree (or exchange) student with one of our foreign partner institutions (Examples include: Shanghai Jiao Tong University, ENS Lyon, Other Institutions). ” Applicants should answer “yes” and list their home institution.
• Academic Statement :    Applicants are asked to upload an academic essay outlining their objectives for pursuing graduate study at Northwestern. The Academic Statement is required for all applicants, including international, non-degree exchange students. Within the Academic Statement, nominees must present a clear and detailed plan of study and must identify a primary adviser to whom they will report while a visiting student.  
• If admitted, enrolling students will be required to request an official transcript from their current institution (transcript must be submitted by the issuing institution to The Graduate School directly) with accompanying English translation. Students can also request a credential evaluation in place of official transcripts. The Graduate School prefers WES or ECE.  
• Test Scores : The Graduate School does not require the GRE, GMAT or English Language Proficiency scores for non-degree exchange students, though individual programs may have stricter requirements. Please check with host program regarding any additional requirements.  
• Confirmation of the applicant’s enrolled graduate student status   
• The applicant's proposed plan of study at Northwestern and its relevance to the applicant’s academic and scholarly progress  
• No application fee is required.    

Application Deadlines  

The Graduate School has set the following deadlines for Fall 2024:  

• May 15, 2024 : Deadline by which students must submit completed application for admission.  
• May 22, 2024 : Deadline by which programs must enter an admissions decision.  
• June 3, 2024 : Deadline by which applicant must enter their enrollment decision.  

For general questions about the program

For questions specific to the application process.