Northwestern University ED Acceptance Rate

Hi guys! I'm considering applying Early Decision to Northwestern University. I know it's binding, but does anyone know the acceptance rate for the ED pool? Is it higher than that of the regular decision?

Yes, the acceptance rate for the Early Decision (ED) pool at Northwestern University has been historically higher than the regular decision acceptance rate. For the 2024-2025 application cycle, Northwestern’s ED acceptance rate was around 22.5%, while their regular decision acceptance rate was roughly 7.5%. It's important to note these percentages can fluctuate from year to year based on the applicant pool.

ED does generally boost your chances of acceptance at many universities, including Northwestern, because schools appreciate the commitment that comes with an ED application. However, it's crucial to remember that an ED application requires a firm commitment to attend if accepted, so it should be your top choice.

Applying ED often leads to a smaller, more competitive applicant pool, since the students who apply early decision are those who have prioritized the university and are, therefore, often highly qualified. It's not a decision to be made lightly, but it can be a strategic move if Northwestern is your top choice and you feel your application is strong.