CAMPUS · EVANSTON, IL · PRIVATE

Northwestern University

7.1%

01Acceptance 02Tuition 03Transfer 04ROI 05AP Credit 06Majors 07Housing 08International

International Students at Northwestern University: By the Numbers

10.1%

International Undergrads

1,027

International Undergrad Count

4,413

International Graduate Students

20.2%

International (All Students)

Cost of Attending Northwestern University as an International Student

International students typically pay out-of-state tuition rates. Here's the full cost picture.

Room & Board	$20,334/yr
Estimated 4-Year Total	$81,336

Good news for international applicants: Northwestern University is a private university — there's no in-state vs out-of-state tuition difference.

How to Apply to Northwestern University as an International Student

Meet English Proficiency Requirements

Most schools require TOEFL (typically 100+ iBT) or IELTS (7.0+). Some accept Duolingo English Test.

Submit Standardized Tests

SAT: 1525+, ACT: 34+

Prepare Financial Documentation

You'll need proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Apply for F-1 Student Visa

After admission, Northwestern University will issue a Form I-20. Use this to apply for an F-1 visa at your nearest U.S. embassy. Start the process 3-4 months before your program begins.

Northwestern University Student Body Diversity

Diversity breakdown of Northwestern University's undergraduate student body.

White

36.9%

Black/African American

6.7%

Hispanic/Latino

13.3%

Asian

20.6%

International

10.1%

Career Outcomes for Northwestern University International Graduates

International students at Northwestern University can work in the U.S. after graduation through OPT (Optional Practical Training). STEM majors qualify for a 3-year OPT extension.

$89,363

Median Earnings (10yr)

$76,844

Median Salary (6yr)

$15,000

Median Debt

OPT & H-1B Path: After graduating from Northwestern University, international students get 12 months of OPT work authorization (36 months for STEM fields). Many use this time to secure H-1B visa sponsorship from employers.

Student Demographics

White

36.9%

Black/African American

6.7%

Hispanic/Latino

13.3%

Asian

20.6%

International

10.1%

Northwestern University International Student FAQs

How many international students attend Northwestern University?

10.1% of Northwestern University undergraduates are international students. That's about 1,027 international undergrads. Schools with higher international shares typically have stronger ESL support, international student offices, and on-campus resources for non-US applicants.

How much is international tuition at Northwestern University?

International students at Northwestern University typically pay the full out-of-state sticker price of about $91,250/yr (tuition + room and board + fees). Financial aid for international students is more limited than for US citizens, though some schools offer merit scholarships.

Is the Northwestern University acceptance rate harder for international students?

Northwestern University's overall acceptance rate is 7.1%. International applicants typically face even more competitive admission odds because of limited international quotas. Strong test scores (TOEFL 100+/IELTS 7.0+) and clear English proficiency help.

What English test does Northwestern University require for international applicants?

Most US colleges including Northwestern University accept TOEFL iBT (typical minimum 80-100), IELTS (6.5-7.0), and Duolingo English Test (115-130). Highly selective schools require scores at the upper end of those ranges. Some schools waive the test if you've studied 3+ years in English.

Does Northwestern University sponsor F-1 visas for international students?

Yes — Northwestern University is SEVP-certified and issues I-20 forms to admitted international students. Once you're admitted and pay your enrollment deposit, Northwestern University's international student office issues your I-20, which you use to apply for an F-1 student visa at the US embassy in your home country.