How to Apply
Applications for Fall 2024 matriculation are now open.
Where do I apply?
Applications are found at The Graduate School's application portal.
What's the deadline for applications?
The application period for Fall 2024 matriculation is now open. Applications are accepted until June 30, 2024, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting in February 2024.
For international students, we recommend applying earlier in the cycle to ensure that there are no issues receiving a US visa.
When will decisions be made for Fall 2024 matriculation?
Decisions will be made starting in April 2024.
How much does it cost to apply?
The application fee is $95 and is paid in the application portal.
Are Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) required for admission?
For master's applications filed for 2024 matriculation, submitting GRE scores is optional. Master's applicants may submit scores if desired, but submitting scores is not required.
What documents must be submitted in the application?
Statement of purpose
Your Statement of Purpose should describe the following:
- Your purpose and objective for undertaking graduate study.
- Any special research interests or qualifications you possess.
- Why you chose to apply to Northwestern University.
Transcripts
Transcripts of work completed or in progress at all colleges or universities attended.
Please make sure scanned transcripts are able to be read before uploading them. Transcripts that cannot be read will not be reviewed.
Please do not upload foreign language transcripts unless English language transcripts are impossible to obtain. If you only have access to foreign language transcripts, your foreign language transcripts must be accompanied by an official English translation bearing the original ink signature and seal of the issuing university.
Please do not mail official copies of your transcripts to The Graduate School before you have been admitted AND submitted your enrollment decision. Any transcript submitted prior to that point will not be kept and you will be required to submit those transcripts again.
Letters of recommendation
At least two letters of recommendation from professors familiar with your work must be submitted through the application portal. Professors will be sent an email through which they can submit their recommendations.
Resume/CV
English-language tests
International students are required to submit scores from tests such as the TOEFL. However, students who attended an institution where English is the main language of instruction may be exempt. Please email the Graduate Program Assistant for more information.
Admitted Students
What should admitted students do?
Admitted students must make a decision in the application portal.
Admitted students must mail one official copy of each transcript to The Graduate School Admission Office as soon the transcripts are available. Transcripts should be sent directly from the issuing institution in sealed, unopened envelopes. Please be sure that official transcripts list all the degrees earned prior to enrolling at Northwestern University.
Failure to submit all your transcripts (including degree awarding transcripts) by the end of your first quarter of study (early December of the first year) will result in registration holds
Where are transcripts sent?
The Graduate School's address is:
Northwestern University
The Graduate School
Rebecca Crown Center
633 Clark Street
Evanston, Illinois, 60208