Academics

Enrollment Opportunities

Northeastern is a global institution with flexible opportunities for undergraduates to experience various program locations and partnerships worldwide. Our students begin their Northeastern experience as part of signature first-year programs, which leverage our network of undergraduate campuses and partnerships with institutions across the globe. We encourage you to watch this video that offers an overview of each opportunity. Additional details for each program can also be found in the sections below.

Applying Early Decision

Early Decision applicants will be bound to their first-choice preference if they are admitted into that program. This will be true for preferences of any of our five first-year programs and for those who select “open to all opportunities” as their first preference. ED applicants will not be bound to an enrollment program if they are admitted into a program that was not their first-choice preference—a non-binding decision would be issued. To see additional benefits for students applying early decision, click below.

Enrollment Opportunities at NU

At Northeastern, we take a comprehensive approach to the application process. Each application is carefully reviewed with the goal of building a diverse community with intellectually motivated and engaged students. The Northeastern-specific section of the application will also allow you to indicate your preferences in our signature first-year programs. Please note that all applicants are considered to join the Northeastern community through all available first-year programs, no matter your indicated preference. Understanding your preferences helps guide the Admissions Committee. The estimated cost of attendance and federal financial aid eligibility varies for each program.

Additional details for each program can also be found in the sections below.

First-Year Programs

  • Starting at the Boston campus, first-year students will have the opportunity to be immersed in a diverse, global, and thriving campus environment. You will have all the advantages of a small campus feel in a big city and the benefits of small intimate classes and connections within a large university.

    Our vibrant campus is unique within the city, a one-of-a-kind sanctuary of green spaces and tree-lined pathways in the heart of Boston. It truly is a campus within a city. One of the country's greatest walking cities, having Boston in your backyard opens you up to a cultural hub with much to see and do. Take a short walk or hop on the easy-to-use public transportation system (the "T") to explore popular nearby destinations.

    As with all of Northeastern's Global Network of campuses, the Boston experience harnesses the power of place to provide an unparalleled experience full of history, industry, and educational opportunities. Boston provides an excellent backdrop for those seeking an experience deeply ingrained in the city's culture.

  • Northeastern University Oakland offers rigorous academics, a bustling community art and music scene, and a deep historical commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice. NU Oakland is located on a lush 135-acre campus on the edge of the Oakland hills, offering a small campus feel while in close proximity to San Francisco, Berkeley, and Silicon Valley. Oakland, California, is home to a range of nonprofit arts organizations, social justice initiatives, advocacy groups, and a business culture committed to social responsibility.

    Northeastern University Oakland students can pursue a variety of interdisciplinary degree programs positioned at the intersection of technology, healthcare, science, and business. All students who enroll at our Oakland campus will have the opportunity to directly transition to Northeastern's Boston campus after completing their first year in Oakland or choose to complete their studies in the Bay Area.

    Northeastern University Oakland will provide a distinctly "West Coast" experience for those who want to take advantage of everything the Bay Area offers.

    Learn more about Northeastern University Oakland here.

  • The N.U.in Program is a first-semester global experience rooted in Northeastern's core belief that students should be engaged citizens of the world.

    Launched in 2006, N.U.in students begin their studies as a cohort in a global location before matriculating to the university and transitioning to the Boston campus in January for the second semester. Previous program locations include Germany, Greece, Ireland, and more.

    The N.U.in Program provides a truly transformative experience for students. N.U.in alumni are adventurous, bold, ambitious, intellectually curious, reflective, and independent individuals who engage in their own learning. They share a passion for the world and thrive in their community.

    Visit the N.U.in website to learn more.

  • London Scholars students will spend their first year studying at Northeastern University London, an English university situated in Devon House in St Katharine Docks, a vibrant and dynamic quarter in central London. Located just a few minutes walk from the Tower of London, one of the UK's most iconic heritage sites, and Tower Bridge, one of the most instantly recognizable structures in the world, St Katharine Docks is steeped in the history of London and the River Thames upon which the city was founded.

    Northeastern University London's unique location will allow students to amplify their university experience by living, studying, and growing in London. In their second year and beyond, London Scholars will have the opportunity to continue exploring global program offerings. Students can choose to study on Northeastern's Boston campus, while some may have the option to complete their degree at NU London.

    Visit the London Scholars website to learn more.

  • New for Fall 2025, Northeastern students admitted to New York City Scholars will begin their journey at the Marymount Manhattan College campus in Manhattan as a cohort of fellow first-year Northeastern students. Located in a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood in NYC, just moments from landmarks such as Central Park and Times Square, the NYC Scholars will have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural and academic heart of New York City.

    During their first year, students will have access to a variety of cultural institutions, artistic venues, and professional opportunities that define New York City's global influence. In their second year and beyond, NYC Scholars will study on Northeastern's Boston campus and have the opportunity to continue to explore global program offerings.

Additional First-Year Northeastern Opportunities

  • NU Immerse is a distinctive one-year university experience for non-native English-speaking students looking for an advanced English language program built on a foundation of rigorous academics. You will benefit from robust academics and acculturation support. Upon successful completion of the program, students will be prepared to fully matriculate into their chosen degree program of study.

    The two-semester NU Immerse program begins in the fall and is offered at Northeastern's Boston campus. All courses are taught by Northeastern faculty.

    Visit the NU Immerse website to learn more.

  • Foundation Year is a one-year Boston resident-based program dedicated to ensuring each student is prepared to begin and complete their undergraduate degree. Students are supported through a rigorous academic curriculum while building community in a cohort model. Students who successfully complete Foundation Year are eligible to matriculate into a degree program in the College of Professional Studies or at one of Northeastern's seven undergraduate day colleges. 

    Visit the Foundation Year website to learn more.

  • Students interested in the London Undergraduate U.K. Degree Program can apply directly through UCAS, the UK-based application system (Northeastern University London's provider number is N53), the Common Application, by selecting Northeastern University and then, "U.K. degree", or via Northeastern University London's direct application.

    Students interested in applying separately for both a U.S. and U.K. degree should complete the Common App for the U.S.-based degree and UCAS or direct application.

Learn More

Email admissions to learn more about these enrollment opportunities.

admissions@northeastern.edu