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Northeastern University Acceptance Rate, SAT, ACT & GPA

Last Updated on Feb 27, 2025
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Getting into Northeastern University is no easy feat—it’s one of the most selective schools in the U.S., with an acceptance rate of just 6%! Only the top applicants make the cut, but what exactly does it take to get in? What do you require for Northeastern admissions? The university looks at more than just numbers. While a strong SAT Exam or ACT score, high GPA, and rigorous coursework help, they also value extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal achievements. Northeastern wants students who are not just academically strong but also innovative, ambitious, and ready to make an impact!

While Northeastern has a test-optional policy, students who submit SAT scores (1460–1530) or ACT Exam scores (33–35) may strengthen their applications. Additionally, a strong GPA between 4.2 and 4.6 plays a crucial role in gaining admission.

🚀 Use Testbook’s SAT Score Calculator to Find Your SAT Scores! 

Did You Know Facts About Northeastern University?

1️⃣ Co-op Learning Experience! 💼 Northeastern is famous for its co-op program, allowing students to gain hands-on work experience at top companies while earning their degrees.
2️⃣ Boston’s Tech Hub! 🏙️ The university is located in the heart of Boston, providing students access to major industries, research institutions, and cultural landmarks.
3️⃣ Global Learning Opportunities! ✈️ Northeastern offers over 150 study-abroad and global experience programs, including semester-long programs, research, and internships worldwide.
4️⃣ Highly Ranked Research University! 🏆 Northeastern is recognized for its cutting-edge research in fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and biotechnology.
5️⃣ Elite Athletics Program! 🏒 The Huskies are known for their Division I hockey team, which competes in the prestigious Beanpot Tournament against other Boston-area schools.

🚀 Check Admission Requirements of Top US Universities Accepting SAT & ACT!

Element

Details

College Name

Northeastern University

College Location

Boston, Massachusetts

University Short Form

Northeastern (NU)

Acceptance Rate

6%

Early Decision Due

November 1

Regular Application Due

January 1

FAFSA Deadline

February 15

SAT Scores

1460–1530*

ACT Scores

33–35*

🚀 Also, Get to Know How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges?

Northeastern University Admission Requirements

Northeastern is on the lookout for high-achieving, driven students who excel in academics, take on leadership roles, and have a passion for innovation. While submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional, having strong test scores can give your application a boost and make you stand out in the competitive admissions process! The university also values diversity, community service, and extracurricular involvement.

Requirement

Details

Application Platforms

Common Application

SAT Score (Middle 50%)

1460–1530*

ACT Score (Middle 50%)

33–35*

GPA Requirement

Typically between 4.2 and 4.6

Application Requirements

1-2 Letters of Recommendation, Personal Statement/Essay, Extracurricular Activities

Application Fee

$75

If you have strong SAT, ACT scores, and a high GPA, you have a great shot at getting into Northeastern. However, a well-rounded application with extracurricular achievements and leadership experience can give you an extra edge!

Northeastern SAT Score Requirements

Northeastern follows a test-optional policy, but a good SAT score can strengthen your application. Most admitted students score between 1460 and 1530, so aiming for the upper range will make your application more competitive.

Northeastern Average SAT Scores for Admitted Students

If you're aiming for Northeastern University, having a strong SAT score can boost your chances of admission. The Northeastern average SAT score for admitted students is around 1505, with most scoring between 1460 and 1530. Check out the breakdown below!

Section

Average

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

Math

760

730

790

Reading + Writing

745

730

770

Composite

1505

1460

1530

📌 Know the SAT Test Dates and Deadlines: Check SAT Exam Calendar!

Northeastern SAT Scores Distribution

Wondering where your SAT score stands for Northeastern University? The Northeastern SAT score range for admitted students typically falls between 1460 and 1530. Check out the score distribution below.

Percentile

SAT Score

25th

1460

75th

1530

Students applying to competitive programs like Computer Science, Engineering, and Business should aim for SAT scores close to 1530 for a stronger chance of admission.

📌 By Following the Steps Given Here, Complete Your SAT Exam Registration!

Northeastern University Schools That Consider SAT Scores

Northeastern University follows a SAT test-optional policy, meaning SAT scores are not required for admission. However, some schools within Northeastern do consider SAT scores more closely, especially for competitive programs. Submitting a strong SAT score can strengthen your application for certain majors. Here are some of the schools where SAT scores may play a role:

  • College of Engineering
  • D’Amore-McKim School of Business
  • Bouvé College of Health Sciences
  • Khoury College of Computer Sciences

While SAT scores are optional, they can still be beneficial—especially for students aiming for highly selective programs. If you have a strong score, it’s worth submitting!

Attempt the SAT Practice Test to Improve your SAT Scores! 

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Northeastern University ACT Score Requirements

A good ACT score can give you an edge at Northeastern! The middle 50% of Northeastern ACT scores range from 33-35, but aiming for 34+ makes you more competitive. For top programs, a 35-36 can really boost your chances. Aim high!

Northeastern Average ACT Scores for Admitted Students

Scoring high on the ACT can improve your chances of getting into Northeastern! The Northeastern average ACT score for admitted students is 34, with most students scoring between 33 and 35. Here’s a breakdown of ACT scores at Northeastern:

ACT Percentile

ACT Score Range

25th Percentile

33

50th Percentile (Median)

34

75th Percentile

35

📌 Know about ACT Format & Sections here!

Northeastern University GPA Requirement

Your GPA is one of the most important factors in Northeastern's admissions process. Most admitted students have a GPA between 4.2 and 4.6, meaning they are top-performing students in their high schools.

Northeastern Average GPA for Admitted Students

A strong GPA is key to getting into Northeastern! The Northeastern average GPA for admitted students is 4.4, meaning most students have a high weighted GPA from challenging coursework. To be competitive, aim for a GPA in this range:

GPA Percentile

GPA Range

25th

4.2

50th (Median)

4.4

75th

4.6

Students with lower GPAs can strengthen their applications with strong SAT/ACT scores, extracurricular achievements, and compelling personal essays.

📌 What is the SAT Calculator Policy? Read Here!

Northeastern Acceptance Rate

Northeastern has an acceptance rate of just 6%, making it one of the most selective universities in the country. Strong academics, leadership experience, and a standout application are essential for admission.

Northeastern University Acceptance Rate

Total Applicants

Admitted

Enrolled

6% (Highly Selective)

96,631

5,459

3,100

📌 Get to know When You Should Take the SAT?

Northeastern University Scholarships

Northeastern offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships for students. Some are automatically awarded based on academic performance, while others require a separate application.

Notable Northeastern Scholarships

  • Torch Scholars Program
  • Huntington Scholars Program
  • Merit Scholarships for High-Achieving Students
  • College-Specific Scholarships (Engineering, Business, Arts & Sciences, etc.)

📌 Know the SAT Syllabus for SAT Sections here!

Northeastern University Superscoring Policy

Good news for test-takers—Northeastern University superscores both the SAT superscore and ACT superscore! This means they consider your best section scores across multiple test dates, giving you the highest possible composite score. So, if you’ve taken the SAT or ACT more than once, Northeastern will take your best performance!

📌 Find out How Long is the SAT?

Conclusion

Northeastern is highly competitive, with a 6% acceptance rate. To get in, students should have a GPA of 4.2–4.6, SAT scores between 1460–1530, or ACT scores between 33–35. However, Northeastern values a holistic application, meaning strong extracurriculars, leadership experience, and personal achievements can also make a difference. If you’re aiming for world-class education, research opportunities, and career-driven learning, Northeastern is the place to be! 

Colleges That Uses SAT Scores

Many prestigious colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. Below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities that use SAT scores for their admissions.

Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Score

College Name

ACT Score

SAT Score

Texas Southern University

15–19*

820–980*

Tennessee State University

16–21*

890–1080*

Clark Atlanta University

17–20*

860–1053*

Keiser University

15–21*

Not available*

Barry University

16–20*

860–1062*

Colleges That Accept 1200 Score In SAT

University

ACT Score

SAT Score

Wayne State University Admissions

21–27*

940–1200*

Kean University Admissions

16–25*

910–1150*

Eastern Michigan University Admissions

18–26*

910–1150*

Lamar University Admissions

18–24*

910–1120*

Radford University Admissions

19–26*

950–1150*

Grand Valley State University Admissions

21–28*

950–1180*

Central Connecticut State University Admissions

16–27*

925–1140*

University Of Memphis Admissions

17–24*

930–1175*

Sam Houston State University Admissions

19–25*

950–1130*

Oakland University Admissions

20–27*

900–1150*

University Of North Florida Admissions

20–26*

1010–1200*

Northeastern University Admissions FAQs

No, Northeastern follows a test-optional policy, so submitting SAT scores is not required but can strengthen your application if they are competitive.

No, Northeastern does not require the SAT. However, submitting high SAT scores (1460–1530) can improve your chances of admission.

No, Northeastern is test-optional, so ACT scores are not mandatory. However, a strong ACT score (33–35) can make your application more competitive.

No, Northeastern does not require the ACT. Applicants can choose whether to submit their ACT scores, but a high score can be beneficial.

Northeastern is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of just 6%, admitting only top-performing students.

Most admitted students have a GPA between 4.2 and 4.6, so strong academic performance is essential for admission.

Yes! Northeastern superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates.

To be competitive, aim for an SAT score of 1505+ or an ACT score of 34+ to increase your chances of admission.

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