What ACT score do you need for Northwestern University?
The 25th–75th percentile band shows where the middle half of admitted students score on the ACT. Numbers come from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard (2024–25 figures).
Where enrolled freshmen score
Share of Northwestern University's enrolled first-time freshmen in each ACT composite range, from the school's Common Data Set.
Northwestern University ACT band
25th
33
–
75th
35
Median
35
2021–22
Among the highest 10% of ACT averages nationally, from 2021–22 figures. Admission rate: 8%.
Peer schools at this band
Columbia University in the City of New York, NY
25–75:34–35Median:35
Franklin W Olin College of Engineering, MA
25–75:34–35Median:35
See your specific admit chance
The band above shows where admitted students scored. Run the admissions-chance tool to see what your specific score means for your chance at Northwestern University.
Open the admissions-chance toolShare
ACT data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard (2024–25 figures). Last updated March 7, 2026. Methodology.