SAT/ACT Frequently asked questions

Who needs to take the SAT Reasoning Test and/or ACT with writing?

All freshman applicants will be required to submit results from one of the two tests.

Does Northwestern require the optional writing portion of the ACT?

Yes.

Does Northwestern prefer to receive results from one test rather than the other?

No. Results from either the SAT Reasoning Test or the ACT with writing or both can be submitted to Northwestern as part of an applicant's record.

Will Northwestern receive my test scores automatically?

No. Students must request that scores be sent officially to Northwestern. The Northwestern SAT Reasoning Test code is 1565; the ACT code is 1106.

Does Northwestern require results from SAT Subject Tests?

Northwestern recommends that all applicants take three SAT Subject Tests but requires scores from SAT Subject Tests only for applicants to the Honors Program in Medical Education (HPME), the Integrated Science Program (ISP), and applicants who have been educated at home. See the chart below for specific exam requirements.

Required SAT Subject Test
In addition to SAT Reasoning Test or ACT with writing results, the following SAT Subject Tests are required of freshman applicants who fall into these categories:
HPME Chemistry and Math Level 2
ISP Chemistry or Physics, Math Level 2, and a second science
Home Schooled Math Level 1 or 2. Plus two other SAT Subject Tests of the applicant's choice from different subject areas (i.e., not two science or two foreign language or two history, etc.).

Do Illinois residents who have taken the Prairie State exam (ACT without writing) need to take the ACT with writing to apply as a freshman?

Yes, unless the applicant prefers to submit scores from the SAT Reasoning Test which includes writing.

SAT/ACT FAQ