Why Northwestern University Should Be on Your Application List: Top 10 Reasons to Apply

When you’re deciding on universities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options, requirements, and expenses. But here’s a place that truly simplifies the process for students and makes you feel welcome right from the start: Northwestern University! If you’re looking for an amazing education, solid support, and a more accessible application process, here are ten reasons why Northwestern might just be your perfect fit. And hey, let’s talk about how some of my friends navigated these benefits!

About Northwestern University

Located in Evanston, Illinois, just north of Chicago, Northwestern University consistently ranks among the top 10 national universities, as recognized by major ranking organizations like U.S. News & World Report and The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education. For 2021, Northwestern held its impressive #9 spot with U.S. News and climbed to #10 in WSJ/THE’s rankings.

Northwestern’s prestigious standing is further validated by its top-20 ranks across five graduate schools—business, education, law, medicine, and engineering—making it one of only four U.S. universities to achieve this. Provost Kathleen Hagerty credits Northwestern’s resilience in facing global challenges, including groundbreaking COVID-19 research and the highest-ever sponsored research funding, totaling $886 million.

From advancing public health to addressing social and racial injustices, Northwestern’s community is tackling today’s most pressing issues, proving it’s a university dedicated to making a positive, lasting impact.

Reason # 1. Scholarship Consideration for All Admitted Students

Every student admitted to Northwestern University is automatically considered for scholarship opportunities. You don’t have to worry about additional applications or forms—Northwestern believes in making the scholarship process as streamlined and stress-free as possible for its students. This means that, right from the start, you’re in the running for potential financial support based on your application alone.

Reason #2. No Separate Application for Scholarships

At Northwestern, you won’t need a separate application to be considered for scholarships. This policy is a major plus, as it reduces the administrative hassle and allows you to focus more on your primary application. It’s a thoughtful approach, ensuring that all qualified students have equal access to scholarship opportunities.

Reason #3. Graduate Assistantships for PhD Candidates

For PhD students, Northwestern goes the extra mile with funding. Most PhD candidates are offered graduate assistantships, which often come in the form of Teaching Assistant (TA) or Research Assistant (RA) roles. These assistantships not only cover tuition fees but also provide a stipend, helping students gain hands-on experience while supporting their studies financially.

Reason #4. Merit-Based Tuition Scholarships for MS Applicants

Master’s students aren’t left out either! Northwestern offers partial, merit-based tuition scholarships to MS applicants. This kind of support can significantly reduce the cost of attendance, making graduate education more affordable and accessible for those pursuing a master’s degree. If you have a strong academic background, you stand a great chance of receiving this financial aid.

Reason #5. Flexible Transcript Submission Process

When applying to Northwestern, there’s no immediate need for an official transcript. The university accepts unofficial transcripts for the application process. This means you can apply without the delay or expense of obtaining an official transcript upfront. Once you’re admitted, only then will you need to provide the official document, making the initial application process quicker and easier.

Reason #6. No WES Evaluation Required

For international students, not needing a WES (World Education Services) evaluation can be a huge relief. Many U.S. universities require WES evaluations for non-U.S. transcripts, which can be both time-consuming and costly. Northwestern, however, allows students to submit their transcripts without this extra step, simplifying the process and reducing application costs.

Reason #7. GRE is Optional

Standardized testing can add unnecessary stress to the application process, and Northwestern understands this. The GRE is optional, so you’re not required to submit GRE scores unless you feel they will enhance your application. This flexibility is especially valuable if you don’t have recent GRE scores or if standardized testing doesn’t reflect your true academic potential.

Reason #8. English Proficiency Exam Waived for Nigerian Applicants

Are you a Nigerian student? Good news! If English is your primary language, Northwestern waives the English proficiency exam requirement for Nigerian applicants. This waiver removes another hurdle and demonstrates Northwestern’s understanding of different educational backgrounds and language proficiencies, making the application process more accessible.

Reason #9. Acceptance of HND Without WES Evaluation

For Nigerian students and others with a Higher National Diploma (HND), Northwestern provides a welcoming option. Unlike many other institutions, Northwestern accepts HNDs without the need for a WES evaluation. This policy opens doors for a broader range of applicants, including those whose educational pathways may differ from the traditional bachelor’s degree.

Reason #10. Application Fee Waivers Available

Application fees can add up, but Northwestern offers fee waivers to ease this financial burden. For instance, applicants to the College of Science can use the fee waiver code COS2025, for fall 2025 admission. You can also reach out to your specific department to see if additional fee waivers are available, making the application process even more affordable.

Email Sample to request for an application fee waiver

Subject: Request for Application Fee Waiver for [Program Name]

Dear [Department/Program Coordinator’s Name],

My name is [Your Full Name], and I am preparing my application for the [Program Name, e.g., PhD in Environmental Science] at Northwestern University. As I work through the application requirements, I would like to inquire about the possibility of an application fee waiver.

I am deeply motivated to join Northwestern’s community of scholars, particularly because of the university’s commitment to [mention any specific reasons for choosing Northwestern, such as groundbreaking research, faculty, or innovative programs in your field]. However, as an international applicant from [Your Country, e.g., Nigeria], managing the various application costs has proven challenging. I am therefore reaching out to request if a fee waiver could be extended to support my application process.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there are specific forms or documents I should provide to complete my request. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the Northwestern community.

Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Your Application Reference Number, if applicable]