Admission requirements

Test-optional criteria

Northwestern College is test-optional, offering admission without the submission of test scores for high school applicants with a GPA ≥ 2.65. Applicants with a GPA of 2.0 to 2.64 may be admitted, pending submission of an ACT score ≥ 18 or SAT score ≥ 960 or approval by the VP for enrollment and director of academic support after review of high school transcripts and other relevant documentation.

Submit your test scores

Although we are test-optional for admission, we encourage students to take the ACT/SAT/CLT and submit test scores as they may increase  eligibility for additional academic scholarships. Accepted students without test scores OR with submitted ACT subscores of ≤ 19 in ENG and MAT will take required placement tests to ensure they are registered for the appropriate college courses.

Transfer admission requirements

Transfer applicants with a college GPA ≥ 2.25 will be admitted. Applicants with a college GPA of 2.0 to 2.24 may be be admitted, pending approval by the VP for enrollment and director of academic support after review of college transcripts and other relevant documentation.

If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions Office: admissions@nwciowa.edu or 800-747-4757.