Northeastern University Oakland is a renowned institution with a very competitive admission profile. The acceptance rate of 16.54% indicates that only 17 out of every 100 applicants are admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Strong Academics: A consistent record of A-level performance is expected.
- Score Validation: High SAT/ACT scores can help compensate for minor GPA fluctuations.
- Engagement: Admissions staff look for sustained commitment to 2-3 key extracurricular activities.
While academics are a primary focus, Northeastern University Oakland considers your entire profile. A well-crafted personal statement and strong interpersonal communication skills can significantly enhance your chances of moving forward in the selection process.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Northeastern University Oakland Admission Requirements
Northeastern University Oakland GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Northeastern University Oakland is 3.57. Northeastern University Oakland is highly selective.
Mostly A’s with a few B’s will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.
If your GPA is between 3.27 and 3.57, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
Northeastern University Oakland GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at Northeastern University Oakland utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.57, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.57 – 4.00 | Target/Match | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.37 – 3.56 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.17 – 3.36 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.16 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Northeastern University Oakland, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Northeastern University Oakland SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. For the 2026 academic cycle, the landscape of standardized testing has shifted back toward Test-Required policies at the majority of highly selective and Ivy+ institutions. Following a multi-year "Test-Optional" pilot, data-driven results have led universities like Harvard, Yale, Brown, and the University of Texas at Austin to reinstate the SAT and ACT as mandatory components of the application.
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2025 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Northeastern University Oakland Average SAT Score: 1472
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Northeastern University Oakland is 1472 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it very Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do very well to score 1472 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1520 SAT or 33 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Northeastern University Oakland allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1390, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to Northeastern University Oakland. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 750 | 720 | 780 |
| SAT Reading | 705 | 670 | 740 |
| SAT Composite | 1472 | 1390 | 1520 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1390 then you are below most of the admitted students at Northeastern University Oakland and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1520 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1450
Can I get into Northeastern University Oakland with a 1500 SAT?
With a 1500 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Northeastern University Oakland are good but the admission staff at Northeastern University Oakland tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Northeastern University Oakland ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Northeastern University Oakland is 32.
ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Northeastern University Oakland very Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do very well to score 32 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 30 | 27 | 33 |
| ACT English | 33 | 30 | 35 |
| ACT Composite | 32 | 31 | 33 |
Can I get into Northeastern University Oakland with a 33 ACT?
With a 33 ACT Score, your chances of admission at Northeastern University Oakland are good but the admission staff does not check your ACT Score only. The College Admission process tests your all-around personality and academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 32.Northeastern University Oakland Profile
Name: Northeastern University Oakland
City: Oakland
State: California
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 94613
Campus: Main
Accredited by: New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
Selective Strategy: Competitive Positioning
At Northeastern University Oakland, admissions officers seek reliable, high-achieving students. The goal is to be a top-tier applicant to trigger both admission and high-value merit aid.
Being 'average' is fine for admission, but being in the top 25% of the applicant pool is the primary key to securing automatic merit-based scholarships.
Unlike the Ivies, mid-tier schools track engagement. Open their emails, attend virtual tours, and mention specific campus programs to improve your 'Yield' profile.
Mid-tier institutions value students who contribute to campus life through a balance of sports, music, volunteering, and core academic strength.
Use your personal statement to prove you will be a 'good roommate' and active community member. Focus on resilience, empathy, and career goals.
Does a degree from Northeastern University Oakland Worth It?
Getting into Northeastern University Oakland can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Northeastern University Oakland offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision. Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Northeastern University Oakland is USD: 80190.89 and unemployment rate is 2.86%.
How much a Northeastern University Oakland Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 92538. An average Northeastern University Oakland graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Northeastern University Oakland. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occidental College | Occidental College, CA | 1461 | 33 |
| Colorado College | Colorado College, CO | 1445 | 33 |
| George Washington University | George Washington University, DC | 1433 | 33 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus, GA | 1447 | 31 |
| Tulane University of Louisiana | Tulane University of Louisiana, LA | 1443 | 32 |
| Bates College | Bates College, ME | 1446 | 32 |
| Babson College | Babson College, MA | 1435 | 32 |
| Mount Holyoke College | Mount Holyoke College, MA | 1422 | 32 |
| Hillsdale College | Hillsdale College, MI | 1433 | 32 |
| Macalester College | Macalester College, MN | 1424 | 32 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Northeastern University Oakland. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scripps College | Scripps College, CA | 1480 | 33 |
| University of Maryland-College Park | University of Maryland-College Park, MD | 1463 | 34 |
| Boston University | Boston University, MA | 1473 | 33 |
| Brandeis University | Brandeis University, MA | 1473 | 33 |
| Smith College | Smith College, MA | 1480 | 33 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Northeastern University Oakland. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claremont McKenna College | Claremont McKenna College, CA | 1514 | 34 |
| Harvey Mudd College | Harvey Mudd College, CA | 1537 | 35 |
| Pomona College | Pomona College, CA | 1520 | 34 |
| Wesleyan University | Wesleyan University, CT | 1513 | 34 |
| Yale University | Yale University, CT | 1534 | 34 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Anthropology
- Area Studies
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biology, General
- Biopsychology
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Chemistry
- Communication and Media Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
Frequently Asked Questions About Northeastern University Oakland Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a high salary, $92538 annually, depending on the industry.
Question: What is the acceptance rate?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Northeastern University Oakland is 16.54 which is low, typically between 10% and 20%. Admission is very competitive, and a strong academic profile is necessary.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.57. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
Answer: While there is no single 'cutoff' that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.27, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.27, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
Question: What are my chances with a 3.27 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.17 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
Question: Can I apply to Northeastern University Oakland if my GPA is below 3.17
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.57, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement
Answer: Admission to Northeastern University Oakland is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1472 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1390-1520
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Northeastern University Oakland.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.