Counselor Resources

FAQ

• How can applicants stand out in the evaluation process when Northeastern does not have a writing supplement and “why Northeastern” question?

  Despite our large applicant pool, students are able to stand out in our process through a combination of a multitiered file review process by our staff, as well as through visit and engagement with the university. Interested students should research and connect with the university through virtual offerings and by reaching out to their admission counselor.

  In our holistic review, we look for students who have challenged themselves academically by taking advantage of the curricular opportunities available to them; are engaged in activities outside of the classroom; and have demonstrated leadership and an interest in pursuing their passions.

• Does Northeastern require the Midyear Grade Report? What other academic records does Northeastern require?

  • Northeastern requires the secondary school report, high school transcript (including any predicted grades), counselor recommendation, and teacher evaluation from each applicant. All documents must be submitted to Northeastern directly from the high school or recommender.
  • Prospective students who applied in Early Decision II or Regular Decision, or who were deferred from Early Decision I and Early Action, are strongly encouraged to submit the Midyear Report by February 1 to provide additional insight into each applicant’s senior year performance.
  • Predicted grades are required for all applicants whose secondary education culminates in externally assessed high school graduation exams or university matriculation exams. Additional information on submitting predicted grades in available on the International Applicants page.

• Is Northeastern test optional for international students or students studying at an international high school?

  Yes. Northeastern is test optional for all students.

  Non-native English-speaking applicants are still required to submit official results from one of the following English Language Tests: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (Cambridge English); Duolingo English Test; IELTS Academic; PTE Academic; or TOEFL iBT. We will also consider results from the TOEFL iBT Home Edition and IELTS Indicator. Northeastern will not consider the TOEFL ITP Plus for China.

• What percent of the incoming class is admitted in Early Decision I or ED II? What percent is admitted in Early Action vs. Regular Decision?

  For fall 2021, approximately 32% of the enrolling class applied in Early Decision I or Early Decision II. For fall 2022, we anticipate enrolling approximately 50% of the incoming class through either Early Decision I or Early Decision II. For context, for fall 2022, the ED admit rate was 33% compared to the overall admit rate of 7%.

• What do I need to submit to request a fee waiver for a student?

  Your students can request a need-based fee waiver through either the Common Application or Coalition Application. Supporting documentation is not required from students, but if you are looking to submit documentation, such as the NACAC fee waiver request form, please email scanned copies to admissions@northeastern.edu.

• Are students required to submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile?

  All U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible non-citizens who plan to apply for need-based financial aid from Northeastern or federal student financial aid, must submit both the FAFSA and CSS Profile by the appropriate financial aid application deadlines.

  For additional information on the financial aid application process, please visit the Applying for Financial Aid page on our website.

• How are scholarships awarded at Northeastern?

  All applicants are considered for merit scholarship when applying. Students who are in the top 10-15% of our applicant pool are considered for these awards, with strongest emphasis for scholarship selection being placed on academic achievement. Students invited to the Honors Program are offered an Honors scholarship.

  Northeastern offers a variety of other scholarships depending on specific student achievements or actions, including competitive scholarships for National Merit Finalists and College Board National Scholars. Additionally, students may pursue microscholarships through the RaiseMe program. Additional information can be found on our Scholarships page.

• What documents are required to apply for financial aid?

  Students who are interested in being considered for need-based financial aid will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as well as the CSS Profile. Please note:

  • Students whose biological parents are not married to each other are required to provide information about both parent households when completing the CSS Profile.
  • Students and families should also be prepared to submit copies of W-2s, signed personal federal tax returns, including all schedules, as well as business tax returns.
  • Should additional materials or other supporting documentation be needed, we will indicate this in writing.

• What are Northeastern’s financial aid deadlines?

  All incoming students are encouraged to complete their financial aid application materials by the priority filing date to ensure consideration for all available need-based financial aid programs for which they are eligible. Additionally, all first-year applicants who meet the aid application deadline and submit all required financial aid documents will receive their financial aid offer in coordination with their offer of admission. Once the financial aid awarding process has begun, financial aid awards will continue to be released on a rolling basis for students who complete their aid application materials. First-year students may view their Offer of Financial Assistance through their Application Status Check or their myNortheastern portal.

• What is the Northeastern Promise?

  At Northeastern, we believe in your future. We also believe that financing your education is a partnership that continues throughout your enrollment, not just for your first year. Our commitment is reflected in our unique Northeastern Promise. The Promise enables you to plan for the entire cost of your degree through supporting the following conditions*:

  • We are dedicated to meeting the full demonstrated need for each admitted student eligible for federal financial aid.
  • Northeastern University scholarship and grant funds will not be reduced during your undergraduate program (for up to eight in-class semesters).
  • Northeastern University need-based grant funds will be increased annually at the same percentage rate as the increase in tuition.
  • If your family experiences a substantial negative change in financial circumstances, we will reevaluate your aid package and make available all financial resources for which you qualify.

  *Please visit the Student Financial Services website for more information regarding the terms and conditions of this commitment.

• What is federal verification and why was a student selected?

  Approximately one-third of all financial aid applicants are selected by either the U.S. Department of Education or Northeastern’s Office of Student Financial Services to verify the information provided on the FAFSA and/or CSS Profile. If a student has been selected for verification and are required to submit additional documents, they will be notified in writing. Financial aid offers for incoming students are tentative pending the completion of the verification process. Should the verified information differ significantly from the original information provided on the FAFSA and/or CSS Profile, there may be a change in a students financial aid eligibility.

• What is work-study and how can students apply?

  The federally subsidized work-study program gives students the opportunity to work a qualifying part-time job to assist with their educational expenses. Eligible students must have submitted their FAFSA by the priority filing deadline and demonstrate financial need to qualify. If students are eligible for federal work-study, it will be reflected on their offer of financial assistance.

  Students must conduct their own job search if they choose to utilize their award. Available positions are limited, and employment is not guaranteed.