A straight answer: 5.2% acceptance rate.
This means for every 100 applicants, only 5 actually get in. No guessing. Northeastern University is a UNIV institution located in Boston, MA — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.
Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)
Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:
Men
Women
If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.
Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters
This is where the reality hits:
Yield Rate: N/A
This shows how many admitted students choose Northeastern University. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.
What Scores Do You Need?
If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Acceptance Rate at Northeastern University
The acceptance rate at Northeastern University is often one of the first numbers students notice when researching admissions. While it provides a snapshot of selectivity, it’s not designed to answer personal questions about chances or outcomes.
An acceptance rate of 5.2% reflects how many applicants were admitted overall—not how competitive individual programs are or how different applicant profiles perform. Understanding that distinction helps students avoid common misconceptions.
Why Acceptance Rates Don’t Tell the Whole Story
Acceptance rates are shaped by who applies. Universities that attract a large number of applicants with varying levels of preparation often report higher acceptance rates without necessarily being easier to succeed at academically.
At Northeastern University, certain programs may receive significantly more applications than others, creating uneven competition across majors. That means the effective acceptance rate can differ depending on what and how a student applies.
Using Acceptance Rate Data More Strategically
Rather than focusing on the acceptance rate alone, applicants should use it as one data point among many. Academic fit, intended major, and course rigor often have a greater impact on admissions decisions than the headline number.
For students researching the Northeastern University acceptance rate, the most productive approach is to combine that information with a realistic assessment of their own academic profile. Doing so turns a simple statistic into a useful planning tool.
Admissions Insight
Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?
Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.
Your Chances of Getting Into Northeastern University
Let’s keep it real:
- ✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
- 🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
- ❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles
If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.
What's my real shot?
Acceptance Odds Estimator
Estimate your admission probability at Northeastern University based on your unique profile.
Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.
Try Right Fit MatcherIs Northeastern University a Reach, Target, or Safety School?
One of the most common reasons students research admissions data is to categorize schools. Where does Northeastern University belong on your list? Is it a reach, a realistic target, or a safer option?
There’s no universal answer. For some applicants, Northeastern University may represent a strong target where preparation aligns well with admissions expectations. For others—especially those applying to competitive programs—it may function more like a reach.
How to Think About Your Chances Holistically
Admissions outcomes depend on more than a single statistic. Academic rigor, consistency, course selection, and clarity of intent all influence how applications are reviewed. That’s why two students with similar GPAs can experience very different results.
Using admissions data effectively means pairing it with self-assessment. When students understand both their own profiles and how the university evaluates applicants, decisions become clearer and more grounded. In that sense, acceptance data isn’t about predicting outcomes—it’s about making smarter choices before applying.
Should You Apply to Northeastern University?
If 5.2% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.
- Will I be a standout here?
- Do I like the vibe?
- Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
- Is this my best-fit major here?
Explore Northeastern University
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs About Northeastern University Acceptance Rate
What is the co-op program like?
The co-op program places students in multi-term, often paid work experiences that count toward graduation. It is structured to give extended, career-relevant experience, helping students build skills and professional connections before they graduate.
Is the university test-optional?
Yes, the university operates a test-optional admissions policy, allowing applicants to decide whether to submit standardized test scores as part of a holistic review.
How competitive is admission?
Admissions are selective, particularly for popular STEM and business programs. The university evaluates academic performance, recommendations, essays, and demonstrated interest or experience relevant to the applicant's intended field.
Which majors benefit most from the experiential model?
Majors tied closely to industry—such as engineering, computer science, data science, and business—tend to benefit most, as they often have a strong pipeline of co-op and internship placements with competitive compensation.
How should I weigh cost versus co-op earnings?
Consider total cost of attendance alongside potential co-op earnings and financial aid. While co-op income can offset expenses and sometimes lead to job offers, it is not guaranteed for every student or major, so factor in scholarships, loans, and personal finances when deciding.
Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual
Northeastern University isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.
Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.
Unlock Your Best Shot with Orbit
Everything you need to maximize your college application success