Application instructions For high school, homeschool and transfer students

High school and homeschool applicants* are considered based on their probable success at Northwestern College as indicated primarily by high school grades and test scores. (Northwestern is test-optional, but we still encourage all applicants to submit ACT/SAT or CLT scores; test scores are required for applicants whose high school GPA is ≤ 2.64.) To increase your chances of receiving the most financial aid possible, you should apply early during your senior year of high school. Once all the appropriate forms have been submitted, you can expect to hear from Northwestern regarding the status of your application within 2 weeks.

Transfer applicants* are considered based on their college success to date. Transfer applicants should have a current cumulative college GPA of at least 2.25. Once all the appropriate forms have been submitted, you can expect to hear from Northwestern regarding the status of your application within 2 weeks.

Review Northwestern’s admission requirements

* This application is for U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents (those who have an I-551 or "Green Card").

1. Apply online

   Or, if you prefer to submit a paper copy, you can download the application. Once completed, your application should be mailed to the Northwestern College admissions office.

2. High school students: Arrange for an official copy of your high school transcript to be sent to Northwestern College.

   Transfer students: Arrange for official copies of your high school and all college transcripts to be sent to Northwestern College. Once all transcripts are received, our registrar will complete a transcript credit evaluation for you.

3. High school students: If you’ve already taken the ACT, SAT or CLT, your scores will likely appear on your high school transcript. If you’ve not taken either test, we recommend you do so and indicate you want your scores sent to us. (Northwestern’s ACT code: 1346; Northwestern’s SAT code: 6490).

   Transfer students: You may be asked to provide standardized test scores. The admissions office will contact you if we need your ACT/SAT/CLT results.