Northwestern University

Introduction to Northwestern University

Located in Evanston, Illinois, along the shore of Lake Michigan, Northwestern University was founded by 1851 by John Evans and several other prominent Chicago Methodists to serve the Northwest territory. In 1873, it merged with the Evanston College for Ladies.

Now, the 240-acre campus encompasses professional buildings in downtown Chicago and the other undergraduate colleges in Evanston. Northwestern University is widely considered among the best universities in the nation.

Student Life at Northwestern University

Around 17,000 students attend Northwestern, living in several residence halls across campus. The faculty includes some of the best people in their fields, including Pulitzer Prize winners and MacArthur Fellowship recipients.

The Daily Northwestern is one of the preeminent college newspapers in the country, often winning the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and Associated Collegiate Press Pacemaker awards, while WNUR is the largest student-run radio station. The Student Theater Coalition, or StuCo, organizes student theater companies, from plays to improv groups.

Northwestern University Wildcats compete in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference in 19 intercollegiate sports.

FAQs on Northwestern University

Is Northwestern University Accredited?

Northwestern University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

What Are Some Requirements for Northwestern University?

Admission to Northwestern University is extremely competitive, accepting only one quarter of applicants. Students interested in applying should fill out the common application or the Northwestern application and send along with a nonrefundable fee, official high school transcripts, teacher recommendations, standardized test scores from the SAT or ACT and SAT II and a personal statement. The drama and music schools require separate portfolios or audition tapes.

Can I Receive Financial Aid From Northwestern University?

Northwestern awards over 50 million dollars in financial aid to undergraduates each year. All students are encouraged to submit a FAFSA form and check for eligibility on student loans, grants and work study. Scholarships from the university include the NU Appropriated Scholarship, the Founders Scholarship, the Illinois MAP (Monetary Award Program) and more.

What Are the Career Possibilities With Northwestern University?

Northwestern University has 11 schools and colleges, including undergraduate degree programs from the NU School of Communication, the Henry and Leigh Bienen School of Music, the Judd A. and Marjorie Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, the Medill School of Journalism, and the NU School of Education and Social Policy.