Northwood University is not selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of Northwood University (NU) is 79.68%. This means that 80 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
How Competitiveness is Northwood University Admissions?
- Slightly Competitive: Applicants need average academics and extracurriculars.
- GPA, SAT/ACT, and AP/IB courses significantly impact admission chances.
- A holistic review considers essays, recommendations, and leadership roles.

Although the acceptance rate is high, remember that to secure admission to any institution of higher learning, you must convince the admission staff that you are mentally and physically fit for the course of studies. Your GPA, class performance, SAT/ACT scores, and IB or AP courses can help your application stand out. If you do not perform well in one area, you can showcase your strengths in other areas, as NU is not very strict in its admission, so improving other areas will help you secure admission.
To enhance your chances of admission, perform well in academics and other activities. If your GPA is not excellent, compensate by scoring high on the SAT, and ACT, and taking IB or AP courses.
Additionally, a well-written letter of recommendation, your participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and your interpersonal communication skills can improve your chances of admission.
Northwood University Admission Requirements
NU GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at NU is 3.41. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A’s and B’s is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
If your GPA is between 3.11 and 3.41, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score. A minimum GPA of 3.01 is required.
Can I Get Into NU Without SAT Or ACT?: Northwood University considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 4 to 5 times to improve their scores. Hence you are required to plan early and appear in upcoming SAT / ACT tests. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below.
Northwood University (NU) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them. The test score policy is already mentioned.
Northwood University Average SAT Score: 1055
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Northwood University is 1055 on the 1600 SAT scale.
Northwood University SAT Competitiveness

This score makes it an easy target or SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1055 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1160 SAT or 23 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Northwood University allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 950, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to NU. 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.
Northwood University SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
---|---|---|---|
SAT Math | 530 | 480 | 580 |
SAT Reading | 525 | 470 | 580 |
SAT Composite | 1055 | 950 | 1160 |
It means that if you have scored less than 950 then you are below most of the admitted students at NU and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1160 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 1050
Can I get into Northwood University (NU) with a 1150 SAT?
With a 1150 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Northwood University (NU) are good but the admission staff at NU 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.
Northwood University (NU) ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at NU is 20.
Northwood University ACT Competitiveness

This score makes Northwood University less competitive for ACT scores. You need to put average efforts to score 20 on the ACT.
Northwood University ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
---|---|---|---|
ACT Math | 20 | 16 | 23 |
ACT English | 19 | 15 | 23 |
ACT Composite | 20 | 17 | 23 |
Can I get into Northwood University with a 23 ACT?
With a 23 ACT Score, your chances of admission at Northwood University 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.
SAT Vs ACT: Which score to send
You can compare your scores in SAT and ACT to the average SAT and ACT Scores of the admitted students at Northwood University. More importantly, comparing your scores with the 25th and 75th percentiles of SAT and ACT scores will give you a better understanding of where you stand. If your score on the SAT is near the 75th percentile SAT score, then you must send your SAT score. If your ACT score is near the 75th percentile, then you must send your ACT Score.
But there is more, if both of your scores are in the same range, then it is better to send an ACT Score, as in the case of ACT, you can control which score to send as opposed to SAT.
Here is how: When sending the ACT Score, you can decide which score you want to send to the colleges. You could take 8 ACT tests, and only send your highest one. This is not the case with the SAT, where your score report mentions all of your attempts.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 20.NU Profile
Name: Northwood University (NU)
City: Midland
URL: www.northwood.edu/
State: Michigan
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 48640-2398
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
How much does a degree from NU Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Northwood University is USD: 45439. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Northwood University is much less than this.
How can I get a scholarship?
23.96% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 65.45 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to NU and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Northwood University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist NU as your choice in the form.
How much a NU Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the NU graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 63075. An average NU 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 Northwood University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of Northwood University, you'll be competitive for these schools.
School | Location | SAT | ACT |
---|---|---|---|
Faulkner University | Faulkner University, AL | 1021 | 21 |
University of West Alabama | University of West Alabama, AL | 1015 | 19 |
Central Baptist College | Central Baptist College, AR | 1011 | 21 |
Henderson State University | Henderson State University, AR | 1019 | 19 |
University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton | University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton, AR | 1020 | 20 |
Metropolitan State University of Denver | Metropolitan State University of Denver, CO | 1025 | 20 |
Colorado State University Pueblo | Colorado State University Pueblo, CO | 1031 | 21 |
The Baptist College of Florida | The Baptist College of Florida, FL | 1045 | 20 |
Columbus State University | Columbus State University, GA | 1020 | 20 |
Thomas University | Thomas University, GA | 1010 | 18 |

Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Northwood University. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for Northwood University, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
School | Location | SAT | ACT |
---|---|---|---|
Auburn University at Montgomery | Auburn University at Montgomery, AL | 1051 | 22 |
Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville State University, AL | 1055 | 20 |
Troy University | Troy University, AL | 1050 | 21 |
Williams Baptist University | Williams Baptist University, AR | 1050 | 21 |
Colorado Mesa University | Colorado Mesa University, CO | 1062 | 22 |

More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Northwood University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
School | Location | SAT | ACT |
---|---|---|---|
Huntingdon College | Huntingdon College, AL | 1086 | 21 |
University of South Alabama | University of South Alabama, AL | 1118 | 23 |
Spring Hill College | Spring Hill College, AL | 1094 | 22 |
Tuskegee University | Tuskegee University, AL | 1091 | 21 |
University of Arkansas at Little Rock | University of Arkansas at Little Rock, AR | 1089 | 21 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Accounting and Related Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Hospitality Administration/Management
Frequently Asked Questions About Northwood University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $63075 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
Question: What is the tuition fee for Northwood University?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $45439 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at Northwood University?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are excellent, with more than a 80% chance, depending on your academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for Northwood University?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Northwood University is 79.68 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at Northwood University?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.41. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to Northwood University?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around 3.11, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at Northwood University with a 3.11 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.11 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to Northwood University if my GPA is below 3.01
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.41, 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 for Northwood University?
Answer: Admission to Northwood University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1055 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 950-1160
Question: Is it possible to transfer to Northwood University from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to Northwood University each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at Northwood University?
Answer: The campus culture at Northwood University is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into Northwood University?
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 Northwood University.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2024, US Department of Education's latest 2024 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.