northwestern university supplemental essay prompts

Northwestern University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 3

Northwestern University 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanation

The Requirements: 1 required essay of 300 words or fewer; 2 optional essays of 200 words or fewer

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Community , Diversity , Oddball

How to Write Northwestern Supplemental Essays

The admissions committee at Northwestern “designed these writing supplements to help [them] understand your experiences throughout high school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become.” The supplemental questions below cover ideas that admissions sees as important for building Northwestern’s upcoming class, so take this opportunity to provide them with greater insight into what has shaped you and how you might contribute to the Northwestern community once you arrive on campus. As with all admissions essays, you will want to infuse your response with details that will differentiate you from other applicants. 

P.S. Even though the second part of the supplement is optional, we highly recommend submitting the two essays allowed to demonstrate your interest!

Let’s dive in. The instructions read:

We have designed these writing supplements to help us understand your experiences throughout high school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become. The supplemental questions below touch on areas we see as important for building Northwestern’s Class of 2029, but you should feel free to repurpose essays you’ve written for other applications (including the Common/Coalition Application personal essay, which we no longer require) if they tell the story you’d most like to share.

We also know there may be information or qualities not covered in our supplemental questions that you see as important to your application. to that end, we welcome—but by no means expect—your submission of a personal essay or additional information in the common application., the following question is required for all common application and coalition with scoir applicants (optional for questbridge applicants). please respond in 300 words or fewer:, northwestern essay prompts breakdown, we want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: what aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise.

This is a kind of Why-Community Essay hybrid because admissions wants to (A) know what has shaped you, (B) learn about how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, and C) hear about the specific ways in which you will get involved (which requires demonstrating fit). This is a lot to accomplish in 300 words, but fear not, you got this! Start by isolating a specific story or anecdote that will offer admissions insight into how you have become the person you are today (remember, you don’t have to cover every aspect of your intricate, complicated, interesting self). Then connect that experience, community, or identity to the vision you have for yourself at Northwestern. If your experience is academic, maybe you want to write about the classes you would take or the research you would like to do. If your community is cultural, perhaps you want to write about the clubs you would join. In the end, you need to describe how you plan to engage in the Northwestern community in a way that draws on your past, so show admissions that you have done your research and you’re ready to dive headfirst into the Northwestern community!

The following questions are optional, but we encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

Painting “the rock” is a tradition at northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their wildcat spirit (what we call “purple pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. what would you paint on the rock, and why.

This prompt choice is glorious in its infinite potential. You can choose to elaborate on any of your passions here. Do you want to send a message to your fellow students about the environment? Maybe you want to rally students to join you at a demonstration of some kind. What is important to you? Essays responding to this prompt tend to lean in the direction of activism and community engagement, but don’t feel limited to these angles—anything you want to share with other Northwestern students (and, in this case, admissions) is fair game, as long as you feel strongly about it. And don’t forget to include the recognizable and effective acronym or short phrase you’d paint on The Rock !

Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

This prompt will likely stand out to you innovators, since it’s asking about something you would make from scratch. Use this opportunity to share your imagination with admissions.  Maybe you’ve been making TikToks reviewing your favorite YA novels for some time now. Would you teach a class on the politics of the modern heroine in YA fiction? Perhaps you have an idea for a new healthtech business. Would you create a start-up? And don’t forget to address the second part of the question: who would you want to collaborate with? The person you choose could be your best friend, a community, or an industry leader you admire. There is no right or wrong answer here, so write about something you daydream about and show them that you know how to think big.

Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

If your answer to Northwestern’s required essay focused on specific organizations, clubs, and student groups you hope to get involved with on campus, it may be best to skip this prompt so as to avoid repeating yourself. If not, this is the perfect place to provide Northwestern with more examples of how you will get involved in their community. Maybe you focused your required essay on the academic community you hope to join as you take your research to the next level and you’d like to write about your vision for finding belonging in queer spaces on campus or making connections with other members of the AAPI community. Just keep in mind that your response should focus on the future while drawing on your past experiences.

Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

This prompt is for all you applicants who are chomping at the bit to study in Evanston, Illinois. The nice thing about being able to focus on geography with this prompt is that you don’t have to have a fully fleshed out plan for your major; instead, you can focus on the experiential and cultural elements that will feed into your education. Why is living in Evanston appealing to you? Your answer should be personal to you and, if possible, unique. Explain what your desire to move from your hometown to Northwestern’s campus says about you. Whether you’re hoping to stay close to your family in Chicago or you’re eager to venture out beyond your one-stoplight town, this is the place to share your excitement.

Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Admissions wants to know how you will contribute to the diversity of perspectives at Northwestern. What has shaped you as a person and how has that made your perspective unique? What lessons have you learned and applied? Is there anything you can teach your classmates or peers about your hometown, culture, religion, identity, race, or ethnicity that they might not already know? Northwestern wants to know how your personal perspectives, beliefs, and/or lived experiences will affect the conversations you have and the ways in which you engage with the Wildcat community, so tell them a story that helps them to imagine the kind of student you’ll be on campus next fall.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Northwestern Essays

We have been reading Northwestern essays for over twenty years now, so we know a thing or two about the most common mistakes students make. The most common mistakes to avoid are repeating the prompt in your essay (don’t waste your words), trying to sound like an academic (admissions wants to hear your authentic voice!), and using cliches (they’re ineffective and—let’s face it—lazy).

Why Choose College Essay Advisors for Northwestern Essays

We at College Essay Advisors have been guiding students one-on-one through the essay writing process for the Northwestern supplements for over twenty years. We take a holistic approach to these essays, considering each student’s application package as a whole and identifying their strengths to highlight. Our Advisors accommodate each student’s scheduling needs to virtually brainstorm, draft, and revise winning essays. It’s incredibly important to us that each student’s voice is preserved, and we pride ourselves in helping students to write successful Northwestern supplemental essays that differentiate them from similarly qualified applicants. For more information, submit a contact form below or review our one-on-one advising services or list of student acceptances . 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Northwestern requires one (1) supplemental essay, but applicants are also encouraged to submit 1-2 optional essays, as well. 

The limit for Northwestern’s “Why Essay” is 200 words or fewer.

Applicants will want to avoid silly grammar mistakes , repeating the prompt in their response, and telling rather than showing (e.g., saying you are determined without giving an example of a time you displayed determination).

The Northwestern supplemental essays are very important in the admissions process. The supplements help admissions to better “ understand your experiences throughout high school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become.” 

Authenticity and reflection are key. You want to both ensure that you’re submitting essays that no one else could submit—meaning they contain specific details from your life or background that aren’t easily replicable—and show that you’ve put thought and care into your response.

You can definitely mention specific professors or research opportunities in your Northwestern essays. You could mention a research opportunity in one of your essays while discussing how you see yourself engaging with the academic community, for example, or a professor you’d like to collaborate with. However, make sure you are not just name dropping; their inclusion should be relevant and thoughtful.

Build a bridge between your extracurricular activities and Northwestern’s offerings to show that not only have you already demonstrated relevant interests, but that you will also take advantage of Northwestern’s offerings to expand your horizons and explore additional interests. The required prompt and optional prompts #2, #3, and #4 all present opportunities for you to demonstrate your fit.

Northwestern is one of the few competitive schools that no longer requires the Common App personal statement, so you can reuse content from your Common App essay in your Northwestern supplements, provided you are not submitting one. If you do submit a Common App personal statement, however, admissions will read it, so you should only reuse content from your Common App essay if you do not intend to submit it.

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Northwestern Supplemental Essays 2024-25 – Prompts and Advice

July 19, 2024

With an acceptance rate of just over 7% for the Class of 2028, Northwestern University is very much an “Ivy-equivalent” school. This is true both in terms of quality academics and selectivity. Last fall, incoming Wildcats almost universally placed within the top 10% of their respective high school class. They also boasted average SAT scores in the 1470 range. In 2024-25, even high schoolers bringing superior credentials to the table need to realize that the majority of the other 50,000+ applicants can demonstrate comparable levels of achievement. Therefore, applicants need to look for other ways to separate themselves from the pack. And that brings us to the Northwestern supplemental essay prompts.

 (Want to learn more about How to Get Into Northwestern University? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into Northwestern University: Admissions Data and Strategies   for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

In addition to one required essay prompt, Northwestern also gives applicants the opportunity to respond to at least one (and up to two) optional prompts. Essentially, every applicant has three opportunities to stand out in the eyes of admissions officers and showcase what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below you will find Northwestern’s supplemental prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with our advice on how to pen winning compositions.

2024-2025 Northwestern Supplemental Essays

Prompt #1 (required for all applicants).

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? (300 words)

Northwestern is inviting you to share more about your background/identity/community through the lens of how that will impact your experience at the university. Take note of the wide-open nature of this prompt. You are essentially invited to talk about any of the following topics:

• A perspective you hold
• An experience/challenge you had
• A community you belong to
• Your cultural background
• Your religious background
• Your family background
• Your sexual orientation or gender identity

Although this prompt’s open floor plan may feel daunting, a good tactic is to first consider what has already been communicated within your Common App personal statement and activities list. What important aspect(s) of yourself have not been shared (or sufficiently discussed)? The admissions officer reading your essay is hoping to connect with you through your written words, so—within your essay’s reflection—be open, humble, thoughtful, inquisitive, emotionally honest, mature, and/or insightful about what you learned and how you grew.

Northwestern Supplemental Essays (Continued)

You’ll then need to discuss how your background/identity/experiences have influenced your academic, social, or extracurricular college goals. As such, think about what you learned and how it relates to one of the previously mentioned areas. For example, perhaps growing up in Northern California has made you passionate about post-wildfire ecosystem restoration, which you hope to pursue further through Northwestern’s environmental science program. Or, perhaps your experience as a poll worker has made you interested in NU Votes , or the discrimination you watched your sibling face after revealing their gender identity has informed your desire to be part of organizations like the Rainbow Alliance .

To that end, be sure you address how you will take advantage of Northwestern’s immense resources both inside and/or outside of the classroom by citing specific academic programs , professors , research opportunities , special opportunities , study abroad programs , student-run organizations , etc.

Prompt #2 (Optional but Recommended)

Most “optional” essays are not truly optional, and Northwestern’s new essay prompts are no different. Think of it this way: if you’re truly interested in attending Northwestern, you have two more incredibly valuable opportunities to further demonstrate that fit. Take advantage of them!

The following questions are optional, but we encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

• Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

Out of everything on this Earth, what makes you tick? What keeps you up at night? What issue could you talk about or debate for hours? If you could address one problem in the world, large or small, what would it be? What do you love to do? Do you have a treasured cultural tradition that you’d love to share with others? If you are answering at least one of these questions, you are on the right track with this essay.

• Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

Firstly, you’ll want to select a course centered around a topic about which you are an expert or hope to become an expert. The admissions reader is well aware that you are a teenager and not someone who has yet earned a Ph.D. Therefore, being a self-taught, informal expert is perfectly fine. You’ll then want to explain “why”—why will (or should) your passion be made relevant to a wider audience? And who would you want to work with along the way? These classmates and collaborators could be peers, mentors, or even guest speakers. Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:

• Given the prompt’s wording, quality answers should involve the intersection of two or more disciplines.
• Course creation essays can and should reveal your ability to connect and synthesize information.
• Make sure that the topic of your course is not overly broad or already offered. The topic should not be akin to a 101 college course like Intro to Psychology…be creative!
• Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

Keep in mind that Northwestern has already seen the President’s Volunteer Service Award and the impressive number of hours you volunteered at multiple nonprofit organizations. They know that you have been an active member of your high school/local community. The admissions committee now desires to understand precisely how you will contribute to  their  community of 8,000+ undergraduate students. Highlighting the link between your past efforts and future aims is critical here. For example, if you dedicated many hours to increasing your high school’s mental health support services, it will be more impactful when you now express your commitment to joining Northwestern’s Active Minds organization.

The strongest Northwestern community essays will show evidence of meaningful school-specific research. This research process will actually give you a better idea of how you would sincerely like to become engaged at each prospective school on your list. Admissions officers will appreciate a Northwestern-centric answer far more than a generic (often recycled from app to app) response. Moreover, given the word count, you’ll be able to produce the strongest response if you focus on just one or two specific aspects of your identity and perspective.

• Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

If you choose to answer this question, know that you’ll need to think very deeply about your answer. Admissions officers are going to receive scores of responses about the number of opportunities available in Chicago, generalities about living in a suburb of a major city, and proximity to famous regional landmarks. As such, if Northwestern’s location feels particularly important to you, dig deep as to why . What location-specific experiences will you be able to have at Northwestern that you won’t be able to have anywhere else?

• Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

This prompt asks you to not only share a particular life experience but also describe why that experience will enable you to contribute to Northwestern in general. Essentially, it’s asking you to take your essay’s reflection one step further—you’ll need to share why the experience you’ve chosen has impacted you as well as why/how you believe it will allow you to positively impact the Northwestern community.

First, choose a key aspect of your experiences or background that reveals something deep and meaningful about you. (Although you could choose more than one, we’d advise against it, given that you only have 200 words in which to respond.) As you brainstorm, consider the following avenues:

• Your role in your family.
• Your role in your social group.
• A challenge you’ve faced.
• A formative experience or realization.
• Core values and beliefs.
• Important aspects of your upbringing.
• Cultural, religious, or community influence.

Second, you’ll need to describe both personal and future impact. Make sure that your answer reveals something about how you will live out Northwestern’s values or contribute to a specific academic/social community.

Finally, this prompt is quite similar to the required prompt about background and identity (see above), so if you choose this option, be sure you’re not repeating yourself in any way. If you’ve already said everything you need to say about your background in the required prompt, you’ll likely want to choose a different option.

How important are the Northwestern supplemental essays?

The essays (including the Common App essay) are viewed as “important” to the Northwestern applicant evaluation process. The other factors that are also considered “important” are: recommendations, extracurricular activities, talent/ability, and character/personal qualities. The only four factors viewed as being more important than the essays are GPA, test scores, class rank, and the rigor of one’s curriculum.

Want personalized essay assistance?

If you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Northwestern supplemental essay, we encourage you to  get a quote  today.

Need additional college essay-writing resources? Consider checking out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• How to Write the Community Essay
• College Essay

Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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Required, Supplemental, and Optional Application Elements

Completing Your Northwestern Application

A quick checklist of application components can be found on our main  Apply page . Below, you can find help related to application components, such as your letters of recommendation or personal statements, and answers to common questions.

Standardized Test Scores

Northwestern will remain test-optional for the 2024–25 admissions cycle. We will not require ACT or SAT scores from first-year or transfer candidates applying for fall 2025 entry.

If students choose to take an SAT or ACT, there is no preference for either exam—and will review a “superscore” for both tests. For students who take the SAT or ACT more than once, this means that our system will combine the highest section scores across multiple test dates and calculate a “superscore” that will override the high score from a single sitting in our database. Applicants are not obligated to report scores from all test dates, though are welcome to do so.

• For students who take the ACT section tests, we will factor any individual section scores into your ACT superscore. You may utilize ACT’s new superscore reporting option to report an official superscore.
• Students may self-report all SAT and ACT scores, but   please do not calculate your own ACT superscore —report your highest ACT section scores and your highest composite score from a single test date, and our system will calculate the ACT superscore. Admitted students who choose to enroll will be required to submit official SAT or ACT test scores that confirm highest self-reported section/composite scores prior to matriculation.

Letters of Recommendation

TIP: Letters of recommendation should be from individuals who can best speak to the range of your strengths and abilities.

We require two letters of recommendation.

One letter should come from your high school counselor. This could be your college counselor, guidance counselor, academic advisor, career center specialist or whoever can to best speak to your overall high school curriculum and involvement within the context of your high school. The second letter should come from one of your teachers who can address your strengths as a student in the classroom; this recommender should most likely be a teacher from one of your core subject areas, in your junior or senior year.

If you have an additional reference who would like to submit a letter on your behalf, we will accept supplemental letters of recommendation. It is in your best interest that each letter provides new or different information about you.

Personal Statement and Supplemental Essay(s)

Northwestern 2024–25 first-year writing supplements.

We have designed these writing supplements to help us understand your experiences throughout high school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become. The supplemental questions below touch on areas we see as important for building Northwestern’s Class of 2029, but you should feel free to repurpose essays you’ve written for other applications (including the Common/Coalition Application personal essay, which we no longer require) if they tell the story you’d most like to share.   

We also know there may be information or qualities not covered in our supplemental questions that  you  see as important to your application. To that end, we welcome—but by no means expect—your submission of a personal essay or additional information in the Common Application.

The following question is required for all Common Application and Coalition with Scoir applicants (optional for QuestBridge applicants). Please respond in 300 words or fewer:

• We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?

We encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two of the following questions. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

• Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?
• Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?
• Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.
• Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?
• Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Northwestern 2024–25 Transfer Writing Supplements

We have designed our writing supplements to help us understand your experiences in school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become. Our supplemental questions touch on areas we see as important for shaping our incoming transfer cohort, but you should feel free to repurpose essays you’ve written for other applications (including the personal essay, which we no longer require) if they tell the story you’d most like to share. 

We also know there may be information or qualities not covered in our supplemental questions that you see as important to your application. To that end, we welcome—but by no means expect—your submission of a personal essay or additional information, which you can upload via your Northwestern portal. 

The following questions are required for all applicants. Please respond in 300 words or fewer:

•  We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?
• Please share with us why you would like to transfer to Northwestern.

Activity Chart

TIP: The activity chart is your opportunity to be thorough about the depth and range of your involvement, whatever it may be.

The activity chart is your chance to explain any and all activities in which you’ve been involved outside of your high school classes. Provide as much detail as you can, explaining any abbreviations or acronyms that may be unique to your school. If you have held any leadership positions or received any awards, honors or distinctions, be sure to include that information on the activities chart as well. There’s no “right answer” to what kind of activities we like to see: Northwestern has over 500 different clubs and activities on campus, so we appreciate a very wide range of activities and value diversity of student interests.

As of the 2024–25 admissions cycle, Northwestern no longer offers alumni interviews as an optional part of the application process. Prospective students can still connect with our incredible alumni through new Alumni Conversations, an opportunity to learn about Northwestern via diverse alumni perspectives . In these settings, you’ll steer the discussion toward connections and topics that matter most to you: maybe you want to hear from someone who comes from the same part of the world as you do. Or you may be looking for perspectives on academic or career interests from a Northwestern graduate with expertise in those areas. Or perhaps you want to explore a shared identity or background. These one-on-one conversations are designed to enhance your college search as you seek authentic insights into a best-fit community. Head to the Alumni Conversations page to learn more.

Glimpse Video Submissions

While our application volume is such that we cannot offer interviews, students applying from US high schools are welcome to record a Glimpse video if you wish to add a more candid voice to your application. (Students applying from international high schools can skip ahead to learn about a similar opportunity through InitialView .)

Glimpse allows you to share a 60–90 second video helping us get to know you better: your values, your perspectives, your background or experiences—whatever you feel matters and may not otherwise come through fully in your other application materials. These videos are entirely optional, and students who choose not to submit a Glimpse video are at no disadvantage in the review process. For more information about Glimpse, including information about Glimpse fee waivers and collaborations with Community Based Organizations, please visit the Glimpse website here .

All Glimpse videos must be submitted by November 7  for Early Decision or January 17  for Regular Decision.

InitialView Interviews

For students applying from international high schools, Northwestern accepts interviews from InitialView . Similar to Glimpse videos, InitialView interviews are not required and applicants without one are at no disadvantage in our review process. InitialView does not review or rate the interviews. Evaluation is done only by members of the admissions committee and provides an additional source of information and perspective about your English language proficiency, personal qualities, academic interests, and potential fit for Northwestern.

All InitialView interviews for the 2024–25 cycle must be completed by November 7  for Early Decision or January 17  for Regular Decision.

Selecting Early or Regular Decision

TIP: If Northwestern is a school that, if admitted, you would attend without hesitation, applying Early Decision best positions you within a competitive applicant pool. If you’re applying for financial aid, we use the same need-based process for financial aid awards for early decision and regular decision; your aid package will be the same regardless of when you apply.

If Northwestern is a top choice, and you feel comfortable applying through the Early Decision process, you are strongly encouraged to consider applying Early Decision. We use the same review criteria for both early and regular decision. Applicants in both cycles are very competitive. Last year we enrolled approximately 50% of our incoming freshman class from early decision. To learn more about application options and deadlines , please visit our Application Dates and Deadlines page.

Northwestern allocates financial aid on the basis of demonstrated financial need. Should you receive an offer of admission, your financial aid (including scholarships) will not differ whether you apply under the early decision or regular decision time frame. Please use our  Net Price Calculator  to determine your expected family contribution. Northwestern guarantees to meet 100% of the demonstrated need between your expected family contribution and the total cost of attendance.

Applications That May Require Additional Materials

Some applications may require materials in addition to an application for undergraduate admission. Below, you will find a list of requirements for Bienen School of Music, Integrated Science Program (ISP), Mathematical Methods in Social Sciences (MMSS) and School of Communication's Musical Theater Program. For questions pertaining to the content of submission of supplemental application material, please contact the corresponding office directly. 

Bienen School of Music

In addition to an application for undergraduate admission,  all   undergraduate applicants to the Bienen School of Music must submit a   Bienen School Supplement.   Submitting the Supplement ensures that the Bienen School of Music is aware that you are applying for a music major, and provides a portal to submit music application materials. Bienen School applicants also register for auditions via the Supplement.

Supplement materials:

• Music   prescreening and/or portfolio materials
• Music teacher recommendation letter (required, submit via  Bienen School Supplement )

See instructions and deadlines for submitting the supplement.   Please note that many supplement deadlines fall prior to those of the general application for admission. 

Integrated Science Program (ISP)

Students who wish to apply to the Integrated Science Program must also complete an ISP application using the  online application .

The application processes to Northwestern and to ISP are separate. Admission to Northwestern is not a guarantee of admission to the ISP and the status of your ISP application will not affect your Northwestern general acceptance decision. 

• For an updated list of required materials, please see the   ISP website .

ISP application considerations:

• Your high school preparation should include four years of mathematics, including one year of calculus, and four years of science, including chemistry and physics. Taking AP Physics and Chemistry is highly recommended.
• You should complete the study of one-variable differential and integral calculus before enrolling in ISP. If you will not complete this study in high school, we will ask you to outline how you plan to fulfill this requirement. 

See instructions and deadlines for submitting the supplement. 

Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences (MMSS)

Students who wish to apply to the Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences program must also complete an MMSS application using the  online application . 

The application processes to Northwestern and to MMSS are separate. Admission to Northwestern is not a guarantee of admission to the MMSS and the status of your MMSS application will not affect your Northwestern general acceptance decision. 

MMSS application considerations:

• A strong high school curriculum, including a year of calculus, is required for admission. 

School of Communication Applicants to the Music Theatre Certificate Program

Students applying to the Northwestern University School of Communication Theatre Major who are interested in pursuing admittance to the Northwestern University Music Theatre Certificate Program are encouraged to submit an   optional   Music Theatre Supplement.

Students who are interested in Music Theatre and are applying to the Bienen School of Music   do   not   need to submit this Music Theatre Supplement. Bienen School of Music Voice Majors   must   audition for the program after their first quarter of study. 

Supplement materials include:

• How do you see yourself contributing to the future of music theatre as a field?
• How can a liberal arts education in music theatre at Northwestern bring you closer to your specific goals?
• Please prepare two contrasting musical selections that you love to sing. 
• Video of a monologue, dance, instrumental skills, etc.

Visit the School of Communication for Music Theatre Supplement instructions and deadlines, including a complete list of requirements.

Special Circumstances

TIP: Use the “Additional Information” section of the Common Application to share any information that may have significantly impacted your academic performance or other involvement.

If you have experienced any special or outstanding circumstances that may have interrupted or significantly affected your academic performance in high school, you may write about those in the “additional information” section of the Common Application. If your high school counselor is aware of these circumstances, he or she may also use the Counselor Recommendation to explain this information. Should you have additional circumstances that need to be addressed, you can email a brief summary to  [email protected] .

Confidentiality and Mandated Reporting

While we treat the information in your application with utmost confidentiality, we feel it’s important to share with our applicants that all Northwestern employees, including our Undergraduate Admissions staff, are Mandated Reporters, which means we are responsible for reporting to the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance all allegations of sexual misconduct (including sexual assault, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and sexual harassment), discrimination based on a protected category, and harassment based on a protected category of which we become aware in the scope of our work for the University. We are also responsible for reporting suspected cases of child abuse and/or neglect . Should we come across any such allegations or evidence of child abuse and/or neglect in application materials, we are required to report that information to the appropriate office/entity.

Once You’ve Hit “Submit”

TIP: Once you’ve submitted your application, keep an eye on your email account associated with your Common Application or Coalition Application – that’s where we’ll send any important updates regarding your application status.

Congratulations! You’ve completed your application. Sit back and relax. Keep your eye on the email address associated with your Common Application or Coalition Application. If we are missing any of your application materials, you will receive an email from  [email protected] . Otherwise, you’ll hear from us with an admission decision by mid-December for Early Decision applicants, by the end of March for Regular Decision applicants, or by the end of June for transfer applicants.

Need to submit an update or want to check on the status of your application? Once your application has been submitted, we will email a personalized link with instructions on how to access the Applicant Status Portal, which can be used to monitor the progress of your application.

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How to Write the Northwestern Supplemental Essays

Bertrand cooper.

• Last Updated on September 5, 2024

Table of Contents

Though short in length, the Northwestern supplemental essays are not necessarily easier to write than the longer Common App personal statement. In fact, compared to the personal statement, supplemental essays often require more research and attention to detail. The Northwestern supplemental essays also offer a fair amount of choice, so you’ll want to give yourself time to make the best selection. 

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the process of writing the Northwestern supplemental essays, offering tips and suggestions to help you stand out to admissions. 

Northwestern Supplemental Essays 2024-2025

For 2024-25 first year applicants, multiple supplemental essays are recommended , but only one of the Northwestern supplemental essays is required : 

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? (300 words or less)

Now, beneath the required supplemental is a list of additional prompts with the following instructions:

“We encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two of the following questions.” 

In general, if a highly selective school says something is “optional” or “encouraged,” consider it required. Additionally, if they’re giving you the option to choose one or two prompts, you can be sure that many of your fellow applicants will choose two, and you should do the same. 

Here is the full list of Northwestern Supplemental Essays you can choose from for your second and third essay (again, we recommend writing three): 

• Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why? (200 words or less)
• Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators? (200 words or less)
• Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus. (200 words or less)
• Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why? (200 words or less)
• Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus? (200 words or less)

What’s the Goal of the Northwestern Supplemental Essays? 

Have you thought about why colleges ask for supplemental essays in the first place? Probably, if you’re like most people, the application process is just something you want to get through. You’re not spending too much time trying to assess the underlying logic animating this process. But the aforementioned question is worth answering because it will help you write a much better essay. 

Something you’ll notice about the Northwestern Supplemental Essays (and basically all Supplementals) is that they focus on how you’ll relate to or interact with some aspect of the school. That might be the academic ethos, the campus culture, the locale of the school, or any number of specific features–but the heart of the question remains the same. Why? 

The truth is that competitive colleges know their reputation. They know what they offer you, and they know what benefit you get from being able to list them on your resume or eventual C.V. 

Application materials like your GPA, test scores, and teacher recommendations already give the school what it needs to assess your academic ability. What they don’t know is whether or not you’re passionate about them specifically. Northwestern wants students who are genuinely in love with the school because those are the students who will be the most active on campus and who will, down the line, be the most generous with their time and financial resources as alumni. 

The supplementals are your opportunity to demonstrate your passion for the school itself. That is also why supplementals require research. You won’t be able to convince an admissions reader of your passion for Northwestern if you cannot make specific and concrete connections between yourself and the school. When you research, you’re looking for this quality of connection. 

Choosing Your Prompts

One of your Northwestern Supplemental Essays is chosen for you, but two are left up to you. You may be wondering if some prompts are, for any reason, better choices than the others? 

Thankfully, none of these prompts is more valued than the rest. However, when choosing your two prompts, consider whether there are any that touch on aspects of Northwestern that you are already familiar with. That could save you research time. Additionally, consider what you’re most comfortable writing about.

Timeline for Northwestern Supplemental Essays 

At the earliest, you will be able to submit your application on November 1st, which means you ideally want to start on your Northwestern Supplemental Essays in July or August. Keep in mind that because these essays require research, if you wait until the fall to start writing, you may be juggling research demands with school work. 

Writing your Northwestern Supplemental Essays

While it is important to research before writing your essays, it’s a good idea to examine the prompts before you start researching – that way, you know what you are looking for. An easy approach is to take each prompt and convert its key questions and information into bullet points that isolate the specifics you need to answer the prompt fully. 

This is the first of the Northwestern supplemental essays, and it’s a pretty dense block of text. It’s useful to paraphrase this as something visually simpler before you start writing. Any visual will work, but bullets and sub-bullets are the simplest: 

• What aspects of your background shape how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community? 
• How will your background impact the ways you will interact with communities at Northwestern?

You may have some idea of how you’ll interact with and contribute to communities at Northwestern. But, again, you still want to engage in research prior to writing your essay so that your response shows insight and passion.

When researching for this prompt, you’ll want to think about whether you’re going to primarily belong to academic, extracurricular, cultural, political, social, or other communities at Northwestern. Once you’ve identified the relevant communities you can learn more about them on the Northwestern website, YouTube channels, or any other social media. 

Since background can include any experience or any identity that you may have, you have many options for this prompt. As a quick example, being a woman in a male dominated field or a male in a female dominated field would impact how you engage with your peers. Or, hypothetically, the experience of taking care of elderly family members might have given you strong opinions on the politics of healthcare. 

Once you have selected the aspect of your background you want to focus on, make sure you find a way to connect in specific, concrete terms to Northwestern. If you’ve had experience with physical or mental disability, perhaps you’re going to ensure that every project you do in a Northwestern computer engineering program or club is concerned with accessibility and accommodations. In which case, make that clear. 

We encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two of the following questions. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question.

For practice, let’s take each prompt and distill it into the simpler bullet points. You don’t need to use the ones written here, but it’ll give you a sense of how to do it. 

Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

• What would you paint on The Rock? 

Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

• What is an imaginary class, research project, or creative effort you’d create? 
• (Implied: say why those individuals would be ideal)

Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

• (Implied: describe why that group and what that connection looks like) 

Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

• What aspects of our location are most compelling to you? 

Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

• What’s a perspective drawn from your background? 
• How will that perspective contribute to the classroom? 
• How will that perspective contribute to the campus? 

Simplifying prompts into bullet points or another visual scheme might seem like an unnecessary step. What does it really add? 

At HelloCollege, we see dozens upon dozens of student essays in a season, and one of the biggest mistakes we see with supplementals is only partially answering the question. It happens frequently with questions that include an explicit or implied “why?” For example, let’s look again at one of the prompts above: 

This prompt is so short, it might not seem worth breaking down into bullet points. But many students produce paragraph that lists a dozen “compelling” features of the local area but completely forget to say “why” those features are “compelling.”

Breaking the prompts into smaller bullet points by cutting out the fluff and paraphrasing gives you a blueprint of what to write. It helps ensure that you don’t miss any parts of the prompt. It also gives you a way to check your work. Once your first draft is done, you can check it against the bullet points to make sure you answered every part of the question. This small step will ensure you avoid the biggest mistake when writing your Northwestern Supplemental Essays. 

Prompt Selection Strategy

You may be wondering if some prompts are, for any reason, better choices than the others? 

Thankfully, none of these prompts is more valued than the rest. But keep in mind that admissions will read all of your essays. Between your personal statement and the Northwestern supplemental essays, you have the option to produce a well-rounded picture of your identity. Or, you could, without realizing it, say the same thing about yourself again and again. We would definitely recommend the well rounded picture over too much repetition. 

Think about what you wrote in your Personal Statement. Then consider the aspects of your identity and background that you wrote about in the required supplemental essay. Based on that, we’d recommend choosing prompts that allow you to describe new aspects about yourself. 

If you’ve already showcased one identity, pick another one. If you’ve talked about academics, consider discussing your creativity (or vice versa). If you’ve discussed the robotics club, focus on another organization. With so many prompt options, you should see a path for expressing multiple aspects of who you are. 

How to Research 

Once your prompts are broken down into bullet points or some other easy-to-read scheme, what you need to research should be clear. 

In terms of sources for research, your first stop should be the Northwestern website. That said, internally navigating the website is sometimes unwieldy (college sites aren’t always the best designs). In this case, Google is a useful shortcut. 

Searching for some version of “XYZ Northwestern University” will typically bring up official material that you can use as a resource. You can do this even for checking on hypothetical questions. For example, maybe you want to know if there is a STEM club for women at Northwestern ( and there is! ). In this case, you can Google “Women in STEM club Northwestern.”

In addition to reading on the official website, you can also look at the university’s YouTube channel or any other profiles it has on video sources. 

Specificity and Northwestern Supplemental Essays

As a final note, we should revisit “specificity.”

Take a look at this prompt: 

Here’s an example of what not to do: 

“At Northwestern, there are numerous clubs and organizations where I can make an impact. I think joining any of the clubs would be amazing because Northwestern is such a great school.” Compare this to what you should do:

“Given my volunteer experience with the Ronald McDonald House, I look forward to providing pro-bono consulting services for medical non-profits through the Northwestern Students Consulting for Nonprofit Organizations (SCNO).” 

The difference between these two is specificity. Doing your research will allow you to speak with specificity about Northwestern, which will go a long way towards demonstrating your passion for the school. 

The Northwestern supplemental essays provide a distinct challenge compared to the Personal Statement. However, if you start early, choose prompts that complement each other, and do your research, you can move through one of the trickiest parts of the essay writing process with confidence.

And if you need a second set of eyes to make sure no bullet points were missed, consider reaching out to HelloCollege – we have an excellent team of essay coaches excited to help you write the best essay you can. To learn more about our essay services and the benefits of one-on-one time with an expert essay coach, contact us for a free consultation today.

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July 29, 2024

Northwestern University Supplemental Essay Prompts: 2024-2025

Northwestern University has released its supplemental essay prompts for the 2024-2025 college admissions cycle. And, unlike over the last several years, Northwestern is asking multiple essay questions of applicants — in addition to The Common Application ’s Personal Statement. So what are this year’s Northwestern essay prompts ? Hint, hint: they’re the same as last year’s essays. Let’s dive in!

2024-2025 Northwestern Essay Topics and Questions

Required essay prompt.

The first essay prompt, which is required of all applicants to Northwestern’s Class of 2029, reads as follows and should be answered in 300 words or fewer:

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? 

As, for years, Northwestern asked a “Why College” essay question as its only supplemental essay prompt, it can only be inferred that this year’s required prompt is a direct response to the Supreme Court’s outlawing of Affirmative Action — because the ruling left an opening for colleges to consider a student’s race and background in college admissions essays.

As Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in his majority opinion , “At the same time, as all parties agree, nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise.”

Herein lies that opportunity for Northwestern applicants. And remember, students do not need to be an underrepresented minority to answer this question powerfully. Students, for instance, can focus on something interesting about their family or community in their response.

Optional Essay Prompts

In addition to the required essay prompt, Northwestern has posed five optional essay prompts to applicants this year. Applicants are encouraged to answer at least one of the essays and up to two in 200 words or fewer.

Translation: applicants should write two 200-word essays in addition to the aforementioned required essay on the Northwestern supplement because (1) that which is optional in elite college admissions should never be considered optional and (2) it gives applicants more real estate to make their case for admission.

1)  Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

This prompt offers students a chance to pepper in some genuine Northwestern specifics into their application that do not apply to any other university — particularly since Northwestern is no longer asking the typically required “Why Northwestern?” essay prompt. Students should demonstrate, through their singular hook that they hope to contribute to Northwestern (rather than well-roundedness) how they hope to get involved in activities and causes on Northwestern’s campus. So if a student is an environmental activist, how they paint The Rock should reflect that passion.

2)  Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

This prompt offers students the chance to create a pithy course name or research project and explain why it would be meaningful to them. It should, of course, be a course or project that’s consistent with the hook the student has demonstrated through their activities and other essays. While students should never tell the same story twice, they should highlight different angles of their interest to showcase how they’re abounding in ideas related to their singular pursuit.

3) Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

This prompt is a Why College essay focusing on extracurricular activities and/or communities. As such, applicants should cite specific activities or communities (no more than two) and then include examples of how they hope to be engaged on Northwestern’s campus through the activity or community. Simply writing that an applicant wants to get involved in an activity without highlighting what Northwestern students have been doing through this activity would fail to showcase that a student has done their homework on Northwestern. It’s all about the small specifics. In their response, applicants should aim to teach Northwestern admissions officers stuff they don’t know about their own school.

4)  Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

This prompt is also a Why College essay prompt , but this particular prompt focuses on location. As such, students need to cite specifics about how the site of Northwestern — and, no, writing vague sentences about Evanston’s beauty or deep dish Chicago pizza will not suffice — will allow them to pursue their ideally singular interest (rather than well-roundedness). In short, students should showcase, by citing specific examples, how they hope to leave their mark through their hook on Northwestern’s surrounding community.

5)  Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

As this essay prompt is essentially a different way of saying the same question posed in Northwestern’s required supplemental essay, we would advise students to choose one of the previous four prompts unless they have another story to tell related to their background or community that they didn’t share previously.

Ivy Coach’s Assistance with Northwestern 2024-2025 Supplemental Essays

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How to Write the Northwestern Supplemental Essays 2024–2025

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Northwestern University , known for their stunning lakeside campus and strong programs in medicine and journalism , attracts many talented applicants every year. Their accomplished alumni include George R. R. Martin, Seth Myers, Gillian Flynn, and Adlai Stevenson II. Hoping to become a Wildcat? You’ll need to nail your Northwestern supplemental essays. Let’s dive in.

Northwestern’s 2024-2025 Prompts

Required short essay question.

• We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? (fewer than 300 words)

Optional Short Essay Questions

We encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two of the following questions. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

• Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?
• Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?
• Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.
• Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?
• Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

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General Tips

Although Northwestern does not require the Common App personal essay , they do require you to write at least one supplemental essay in order to apply. Furthermore, you can add on one or two more essays to share more about yourself and who you’ll be at Northwestern.

Although taking the time to write these optional essays isn’t required, doing so could boost your chances of acceptance to Northwestern. There are four reasons for this:

• Writing the optional essays shows your dedication and eagerness to attend Northwestern.
• Submitting more essays causes the admissions team to spend more time thinking about you and envisioning who you’ll be at Northwestern.
• Writing more essays about who you will be at Northwestern, and thinking about Northwestern more generally, will help you better understand who you are as a college applicant and what opportunities are available to you.
• Giving Northwestern more materials about yourself allows you the space to give the admissions team more reasons to be interested in you as an applicant.

For these reasons, it’s not only advisable to write one or two of the optional Northwestern supplemental essays, but also to submit both the Common App personal essay and the required Northwestern supplemental essay. This is as opposed to repurposing the Common app personal essay to write the required essay.

That said, there are also a few reasons not to write the optional essays:

• Writing is truly not your strong suit, and you’d rather the admissions team focus on your other application elements.
• Northwestern is not a top choice for you, and you’re just throwing on the extra application without much concern for your chances.
• You don’t have the time to write good essays that you are proud of.

If any of the above reasons are true for you, you should feel justified in skipping the optional essays. After all, they are optional. But, if you change your mind, refer to this article and/or send in your essays to our College Essay Review service.

Northwestern Required Short Essay Question

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: what aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise (300 words or fewer).

This essay response is your chance to provide the admissions team at Northwestern with additional information about your background and life experiences that is not otherwise communicated in your application. In addition, you should frame those aspects of your background and life experiences that you wish to discuss in the context of how they will impact the way you navigate Northwestern.

What does this look like in practice? For instance, you could begin your essay by discussing your experience as a homeschooled student, before explaining how that aspect of your background will influence your experience at Northwestern as a self-motivated, self-guided learner. Alternatively, you could write about how the culture you grew up in has impacted your personal values, daily habits, and life goals. Because of this background, you are approaching your Northwestern experience with an open mind to learn about others’ cultures, values, lifestyles, and goals.

However you choose to respond to this essay prompt, think of it as just another Common App personal statement, just a bit shorter. On their admissions website, Northwestern writes, “Because we have a required writing component to our supplement, we made the personal essay optional—we want applicants to feel free to repurpose essays (or parts of essays) they’ve written for other applications, including the personal essay.” In other words, whether you choose to send in your Common App essay or not, approach this essay prompt similarly. Still, if you send in both essays, make sure that they are not redundant.

Northwestern Optional Short Essay Questions

These essay prompts are optional, but we recommend answering at least one of them; you can answer up to two . Every essay opportunity is another opportunity to demonstrate to Northwestern how excited you are to attend and how well you’ll fit in as a student.

Each essay response is limited to 200 words.

1. Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

This prompt gives you the opportunity to share your creative side with the Northwestern admissions team. In your response to this prompt, you can reveal your identity, cultural background, political opinions, and/or artistic vision, whether directly or indirectly. Consider the parts of yourself that you haven’t yet discussed elsewhere in your college application. Or, write about the parts of yourself that would benefit from further details.

For example, if activism is important to you, discuss how you would use the opportunity to paint The Rock to provoke civil discourse. Specify the message(s) you would write or the content of the art you intend to create. If you have a background in art and/or activism, you could also write about your past experiences with communicating messages through art and/or activism. Remember to look into the history of The Rock to better understand how others have used it for activist causes in the past.

Alternatively, if there is a particular art form that speaks to you, or a cultural expression you hope to see at Northwestern, start by explaining to the reader why your intended painting on the rock is important to you. Then, dive into the details of how you would implement your vision.

2. Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

This is a multi-part question, so it might be helpful to break it down:

• Why is this your vision?
• What motivates this vision?
• Is this through a class, a musical, a new club, or some other vehicle.?
• Are they current faculty or staff members at Northwestern?
• What types of members of the Northwestern community do you hope to meet during your undergraduate experience whom you envision as ideal collaborators?
• What are the characteristics of the people you wish to work with?
• Why do you want to work with this person or these people?
• Are these resources you have already researched and which are available at Northwestern?

While brainstorming your response to this question, try to answer all of the questions listed above. Some of those questions are explicit in the prompt, while others are implicit. Regardless, once you have answered all or most of those questions, you should have all the material ready to answer this prompt. If you’re lucky, you might just be able to add some transition words and be good to go!

3. Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

This question requires a bit of research before you get going on your response. Look up clubs, groups, alliances, and other student organizations Northwestern. Check out the directory ; it’s quite extensive, so you’re likely going to find numerous groups that pique your interest. Note that there are still other affinity groups, sports teams, etc. that are not listed in the link provided above.

In your essay, it’s important to not only name the group(s) that interest you, but also explain why. Tell the reader how joining this group will make you feel at home, challenge you to become a better version of yourself, push you outside your comfort zone, and so on. Describe what you hope to learn and who you hope to meet.

In addition, be sure to mention at least briefly your intended contributions to the groups you’d like to join. This can look like pursuing an administrative role in the group. Or, for instance, you might bring some related work experience to the table. Alternatively, maybe you have a unique perspective on the social issue a certain a group focuses on, or a lived experience related to a certain cultural group. Whatever ways you hope to contribute, be specific and humble in your explanation of them.

4. Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

If you come from a place that is very different to Northwestern, then you should dive right into your reasons for seeking a new experience. If your hometown is similar to Evanston, then perhaps you could discuss how you’ll feel at home at Northwestern even while being in a new place. You can also bring up some of the subtle differences! And, lastly, if you are from the area around Northwestern, you should explain why staying close to home is important to you.

Before answering this question, it’s advisable to undertake some research. Look up the local demographics, resources, history, and politics. Understanding the community in Evanston and in the surrounding area will be integral when you embark upon your essay. If you skip out on the thorough research, you risk making untrue assumptions or generalizing the experience of people who live at or near Northwestern. If possible, speak to a local or a current/recent graduate of Northwestern. You can also read about real people’s experiences as students at Northwestern and/or living in the area.

5. Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Think about who you’ll be in the patchwork of Northwestern students. How do you envision yourself fitting in? What about your life experiences and cultural background are unique? What identities do you hold that are less common or commonly misunderstood?

Before you begin writing, make a short list of all the aspects of yourself you wish to write about. Although there’s no strict limit on how many identities or elements of your background you can write about in this essay, you may want to keep your list short simply so that each item can be given its due nuance and detail.

Lastly, while drafting this essay, bear in mind that you need to contextualize with Northwestern’s particular community. In other words, don’t just describe your identities broadly. Rather, note how you will uniquely fit in and stand out at Northwestern. You can even branch out to discussing the different people you hope to meet and learn from, as well as describing how you will contribute to the community.

If you need help polishing up your Northwestern supplemental essays, check out our College Essay Review service. You can receive detailed feedback from Ivy League consultants in as little as 24 hours.

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Blog > Essay Advice , Private University , Supplementals > How to Write the Northwestern Supplemental Essays (With Examples)

How to Write the Northwestern Supplemental Essays (With Examples)

Admissions officer reviewed by Ben Bousquet, M.Ed Former Vanderbilt University

Written by Alex McNeil, MA Admissions Consultant

Key Takeaway

How to write the northwestern supplemental essays.

With an acceptance rate hovering around 7%, getting into Northwestern isn’t easy. For 93% of students, it just doesn’t happen.

In the admissions process, so much seems out of your control. So what steps can you take to help you beat the odds?

One word: essays.

Like all highly-selective schools, Northwestern requires students to exceed expectations when it comes to factors like GPA, course rigor, extracurricular achievement, and letters of recommendation. You’ve worked diligently over the past three and a half years to cultivate each of these areas of your life. But at this point in the admissions process, there isn’t much left for you to control.

What you can control, however, are your essays. From your personal statement to the Northwestern supplemental essay, you have the chance to make your case for admission.

In this post, we’ll cover how to approach your Northwestern supplemental essay so you can increase your chance of getting in.

''Why Northwestern'' Statement

Let’s start by taking a look at the prompt itself. As far as supplemental prompts go, it’s pretty straightforward:

*While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community.

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.*

Now we’ll break the prompt down, piece by piece.

Northwestern Supplemental Prompt Breakdown

As you already know if you’ve read our supplemental essay guide , the first step in writing any supplemental essay is breaking down what the prompt is asking you to do. The Northwestern supplemental essay is a classic “Why Us” supplemental prompt. While it may be straightforward, it does have a lot of parts. We’ll take a look at each.

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community.

In this short preface to the prompt, Northwestern tells us specifically that this supplemental essay should tell them “about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community.” That means that your supplemental essay should focus specifically on engagement and community.

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here.

This part tells us a few things that you’ll need to do.

#1: Your essay should be 300 or fewer words.

#2: The goal of your essay should be to help your admissions officers understand how you would engage with specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities at Northwestern.

#3: All of this means that you’ll need to do some research. Specifically, you’ll need to find particular resources, opportunities, and communities that you can see yourself being involved with if you were to attend Northwestern.

The “and/or” part of the prompt also tells you that you can choose to focus on only one of these areas, or you can write about two to three of them.

We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.

The last sentence of the prompt gives us a couple more vital details.

#1: We learn that you need to explicitly state the specific parts of campus life you want to engage with. Sentences like, “I’m looking forward to participating in the academic community at Northwestern” just won’t cut it. They want specifics.

#2: We also learn that your focus should be on enrichment, during your time as a student as well as your life after you graduate.

In short, all of this combined tells us that our Northwestern supplemental essay should…

a) be 300 words or fewer.

b) reference specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities that you can engage with.

c) discuss how these specific parts of campus would enrich your life as a student and after you graduate.

Now that we’ve broken down the prompt and know what’s expected of us, it’s time to discuss how to do effective research that will help you write the best supplemental essay possible.

How to Do Northwestern School Research

We always recommend that you start by researching the school’s values. You can do this by googling the school’s motto and mission statement.

A simple google search of “Northwestern” + “Motto” (or “Mission Statement”) will tell you everything you need to know.

From this search, we learn that Northwestern’s motto is, "Whatsoever things are true.” And the mission statement is, “Northwestern is committed to excellent teaching, innovative research and the personal and intellectual growth of its students in a diverse academic community.”

Now we can incorporate ideas like truth, teaching, innovation, research, personal and academic growth, diversity, and academic community into our essay.

Once you’ve gotten ahold of the values, you’ll need to find the specific details the prompt asks of you.

To begin, it’s a good idea to start with your academic area of interest. Poke around on the website and look for faculty members, syllabi, course offerings, research labs, past research projects, internships, and academic groups or clubs. All of these areas are rich with details and connections that you can draw from in your essays.

Once you have a couple of those pinned down, take a look at any relevant extracurricular offerings you can find. Focus specifically on activities you’ve been involved with in high school and are looking forward to continuing in college. Alternatively, you can look for activities that interest you that you haven’t yet had access to as a high school student.

After gathering your details, feel free to start writing.

3 Tips for Writing the Northwestern Supplemental Essay

Writing supplemental essays is hard. Here are three tips that can help as you navigate your response to the Northwestern prompt.

Find specific details that connect with your own background and goals.

Recall from our supplemental guide that the goal of supplemental essays is to convey school fit. That means showing admissions officers that you belong on campus and in the classroom of the school you’re applying to.

The easiest way to do this is to connect things you’ve already done—classes, accomplishments, particular academic goals—with what is offered at a school.

If you’re accomplished in robotics and have an interest in disabilities studies, then maybe you reference the Assistive and Rehabilitation Robotics Lab . If you love volunteering at your local historical society, then bringing up the Leopold Fellowship might be a good idea.

Whatever you bring to the table, try to select specific academic and community resources that allow you to seamlessly connect your background with what your life would look like at Northwestern. Doing this will show admissions officers that you’re a natural fit.

Remember that you and your story should still be at the heart of your essay.

Although supplemental essays aren’t typically as personal or vulnerable as your personal statement , that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be front and center. The point of a supplemental is, after all, to show admissions officers why you are a good fit for the school.

So as you’re writing about school resources or values, remember to describe how they relate to your own story and values.

Don’t neglect the very last part of the prompt: “enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.”

One of the easiest mistakes to make when writing any supplemental essay is to accidentally ignore part of the prompt. In Northwestern’s case, this last bit at the end can slip through the cracks.

Even though this detail is at the end, it’s actually one of the most important parts of the prompts. Admissions officers at Northwestern aren’t just interested in knowing which resources and opportunities are relevant to you. They want to know how they’ll make you a better student and person, and they’re curious how you think access to these resources will shape your future.

This is a time to focus on your academic and career goals and plans. Make a case that Northwestern’s resources are the best way to get you where you want and need to go.

Northwestern Supplemental Essay Example + Annotations

Before my seventh birthday, the only people who could understand what I said were immediate family members((Attention-grabbing hook.) . Because of complex factors like gender and socioeconomic status, I didn’t get the speech therapy I needed until second grade. This delay impacted my academic and social development, and it’s one of the main reasons I want to take my secondary education in a Northwestern Direction((Clever connection to a NW-based slogan. Shows research.)) .

It wasn’t until I happened upon the Human Development in Context((Specific connection to a Northwestern academic offering.)) major that I realized how interconnected my speech delays were with other intersections of my identity. My teachers and parents thought that I was just shy, and my school didn’t have adequate speech resources to help me regardless. I’ve already learned so much from Northwestern’s offerings, and I am eager to connect with faculty and students to learn even more.

As a Human Development in Context major, I would be able to think multi-dimensionally about how human development intersects with social systems. Participating in Dr. Haase’s Lifespan Development Lab would help me develop my research skills to prepare me for graduate school, and working in the Pediatric Development Center for my practicum internship would set me off on my career helping kids who are just like me.((Explicit connection to the prompt -- very important!))

Courses like Language Development and Usage and Culture, Language, & Identity will advance my interdisciplinary interests. And outside the classroom, participating in clubs like Project Sunshine and the Undergraduate Psychology Association or living in the GREEN house will help me connect with like-minded friends.

Out of everything, what excites me most about the classroom experience at Northwestern is the “ rigorous but empathetic((Another values-based connection.)) ” approach to education. Because of my speech background, I haven’t always felt at home in the classroom. But with empathy and rigor, I know that whatsoever things are true, I’ll be there learning alongside my classmates and professors.

(Looking for more supplemental examples? Check out our college essay examples post.)

Key Takeaways

No matter how stellar a student and person you are, applying to Northwestern is always a gamble. It’s the reality of the numbers.

But writing your essays, especially the supplemental, strategically can set you apart from the 93% of applicants who end up in the “deny” pile.

Focus on answering the prompt, doing thorough and values-based school research, and weaving in your own story.

You’ve got this! If you want more Vanderbilt application strategy, hop on over to our Northwestern Common Data Set post and How to Get into Northwestern guide.

And if you're looking for even more essay help, consider joining the Essay Academy for exclusive access to a comprehensive college essay writing video course.

Liked that? Try this next.

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How to Ace the 2024-2025 Northwestern Supplemental Essays

Prior to coming to Scholarships360 for her first internship in 2022, Savannah utilized her campus publications by joining various fashion publications that are offered at Ohio University. One of those publications is Thread Magazine, where Savannah has had the opportunity to work on articles related to world-wide related fashion news and events, as well as articles closer to home, such as a fashion piece on Athens hometown-hero Joe Burrow. This year, Savannah also had the opportunity to be a content writing intern for Aiken House, as well as a section editor for Southeast Ohio Magazine. In 2023, Savannah served as the Chapter President of her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta. These collective experiences, as well as her experience currently working for Ohio University’s Undergraduate Admissions, has led her to Scholarships360 and aided in her passion for helping students better understand the college admissions process and financial aid. In her free time, Savannah enjoys horseback riding, watching Formula One races, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family. Savannah will graduate from Ohio University in May 2024 with a degree in Journalism News and Information and a certificate in Italian Studies.

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Northwestern University is a small private, four-year university in Evanston, Illinois. At schools as selective as Northwestern , supplemental essays are a crucial part of students’ application in order to stand out from the crowd. The Northwestern supplemental essay is a great way to tell the admissions professionals why you chose their school. If your GPA and SAT or ACT scores are great, then they are going to need something else to narrow down the applicants– these essays are how they do it! 

Northwestern supplemental essay prompt (optional for QuestBridge applicants) 

“We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? (fewer than 300 words)*”

300 words and under is the perfect number to get your point across in a college application essay. You do not have to feel pressured to write exactly 300 words, and you can always go over, as long as you go back through and revise to make it shorter. Start by writing what you feel, and then go from there.

Brainstorm 

You may be asking yourself, “What should I write about?” This essay can be either challenging or easy for many people because it is so open ended. To begin responding to this prompt, brainstorm some aspects of your life that are important to you and make you you! This could be a hobby, a culture, a personality trait, a life experience or really anything! The important thing is you are choosing a piece of yourself that you are passionate about and that reflects you as a person. Try to take this piece of you and describe it through a narrative or story. Showing rather than telling will get you far in the supplemental essay world! Remember, this insight into you does not have to be all-telling of your whole life story, rather it should just be revealing one small but important aspect of your identity. 

Research Northwestern

Once you have established what you will be writing about, now it’s time to research Northwestern! Go through their website and jot down what clubs, professors, classes, etc. you are excited to participate in. You can even note what may be missing from their community that you would like to establish while attending school at Northwestern.

Once you have a good idea of what Northwestern is like, write about which aspects you envision yourself participating in. Be sure you are being extremely specific about what you want to participate in at Northwestern. For example, rather than saying you are excited to take a biology course, say you are interested in taking BIOL_SCI 380- Biology of Cancer because you aspire to conduct research on cancer in the future to hopefully find a cure. Taking the extra step shows that you have thoroughly researched Northwestern will prove to the admissions committee that you truly want to attend Northwestern. 

Now that you have written about yourself and what you want to participate in at Northwestern, you need to connect these things! Describe what Northwestern offers and why you are interested in these features. Ultimately, your description about a piece of your identity should seamlessly connect to what you want to participate in at Northwestern. How has your background shaped what you want to pursue at Northwestern? Overall, you want to show Northwestern that you will be a perfect fit for their community due to your unique background. 

Questions to consider

• What is an important part of your background that has shaped you? 
• What about Northwestern has drawn you to their school? 
• Are there any clubs that you want to participate in at Northwestern? Or even any clubs you want to create at Northwestern? 
• How has your background shaped what you want to pursue while at Northwestern? 

The following questions are optional, but we encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

1)  Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

To begin, look up “the rock” at Northwestern to get a good idea of what you are hypothetically painting in this response! Then, think about what you would truly love to paint on the rock. This response offers a lot of creativity so the options are endless! Ultimately, try to describe something you love and are passionate about so the admissions committee gets to know the authentic you!

2)  Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

This response has a lot of creative freedom! First and foremost, you should brainstorm what you are passionate about and how you could turn this passion into a course, project, or some sort of creative effort. Then, describe what this would look like in an ideal world. Who would be teaching the course? How will you engage participants? What will participants learn from this experience? 

3) Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

This prompt allows your Northwestern expertise to shine through! Make sure you have adequately researched Northwestern and all of the clubs, extracurriculars, and groups that you are most excited to join! Then, describe these opportunities you want to take advantage of and share why. Be sure you are revealing why you would be an especially good fit for these communities as well!

4)  Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

If Northwestern’s location is one of the main reasons you want to attend the school, talk about why! Make sure you do some research beforehand. Describe what the location will allow you to do as far as leisure activities and furthering your career and achieving your goals.

5)  Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Highlight what makes you unique! Discuss the parts of your background and life experiences that may be unique how this perspective will help you contribute to Northwestern’s diversity. However, make sure you are discussing something about yourself that has not yet been mentioned in your Northwestern application! You want to be revealing new things about yourself rather than repeating the same characteristics and experiences. 

Final thoughts for students

Northwestern University’s supplemental essay is not here to scare you– it is an opportunity for the admissions professionals to get to know you better. As long as you are honest and open about what you expect to learn and experience at their university, they will be interested in hearing more. 

Additional resources

As a rising college student, we understand that you have a lot on your mind. Even once you’ve finished your Northwestern supplemental essays, the work is far from over. That is why we want to take some of the stress off of your shoulders and make things easier! Check out our guide on how many colleges to apply to , or our guide on how to plan college tours .

Maybe you are thinking that Northwestern University is not the school for you, and that’s okay! We have supplemental essay guides for other schools too, as well as tips and tricks for scholarships. Good luck with the rest of your collegiate endeavors! 

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6 Northwestern Essay Examples & Why Northwestern (2024)

Writing your Northwestern supplemental essays can be tricky, but they're important because your responses can have a big effect on your application chances.

Along with your personal statement essays , Northwestern offers students the chance to respond to a "Why Northwestern" essay prompt as part of its writing supplement.

In this article, I've gathered 6 essays that worked that helped get students admitted into Northwestern recently.

What is Northwestern University's Acceptance Rate?

Getting into Northwestern is quite difficult. Last year, a record 51,554 students applied to Northwestern.

And Northwestern had an overall admit rate of only 7%. Or in other words, about 1 in 13 students get accepted.

Northwestern University Acceptance Scattergram

To get into Northwestern, you've got to stand out from the crowd, which you can do by writing a strong writing supplement section.

What are the Northwestern Supplemental Prompts for 2022-23?

The Northwestern writing supplement for this year only asks one essay question of 300 words: Why Northwestern?

''Why Northwestern'' Statement :

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community.

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.

6 Northwestern University EssaysThatWorked

Here are 6 of the best Northwestern essays that worked, including example essays for the "Why Northwestern" statement prompt.

I've also included some great Common App essays from admitted Northwestern students.

Get inspired and start writing your "Why" statement with the help of these examples.

• Northwestern University Essay Example #1
• Northwestern University Essay Example #2
• Northwestern University Essay Example #3
• Northwestern University Essay Example #4
• Northwestern University Essay Example #5
• Northwestern University Essay Example #6

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #1

Prompt: "Why Northwestern" Statement:

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond. (300 words max)

I love Northwestern’s academic flexibility, including the freedom of the curriculum to explore a variety of fields and the emphasis on cross-department study. Also, the quarter system provides a faster pace of learning and the opportunity to take more classes than a semester school.

Specifically, I am excited by the Spanish and Portuguese department and the classes on Hispanic and Lusophone culture, literature, and phonetics. For example, the accelerated Portuguese program is a perfect way to pick up the language at a faster pace using my prior knowledge of Spanish. I intend to supplement my language acquisition through the study abroad programs offered at the Fundação Getúlio Vargas in Rio de Janeiro or an affiliate program in Santiago, Chile. Additionally, the GESI program in Costa Rica is another intriguing opportunity through its intersectionality. It will allow me to combine a practical application of my language skills with studies in environmental conservation that I find a pressing and interesting issue. As an open-minded learner keen to forge links between academic fields of study, I believe I would be an excellent fit for the program.

I am also interested in Linguistics and pursuing undergraduate research or possibly undertaking the coterminal BA/MA program. The opportunity to link my research to a modern language of choice and investigate, for example, regional variation in Latin American Spanish or how Portuguese loanwords have infiltrated native Amazonian languages sounds fascinating and exciting.

Finally, the unique sense of community at Northwestern captivated me when I visited campus. The residential college system, the school spirit at Wildcat games, and the friendliness of the students I met, one of whom described the school as “the most welcoming place ever”, were all emblematic of this atmosphere for me. I think I will thrive in such a dynamic and inquisitive place.

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #2

The only reason I fear going for lunch in a hotel is probably because I wouldn’t choose between fried chicken and roasted meat and so is my dilemma over my college major. The multifaceted whole brain approach at McCormick, however, grants me the perfect opportunity to pursue my interest in Computer Science whilst acquiring the appropriate skills in entrepreneurship to a one day startup as an innovator.

As a NU computer scientist, I particularly look forward to Software Development EECS 473 – NUvention: Web, through which I would not only learn intricacies of Software development, but have related studies in real time software development in relation to market requirements in CS+X that would form a base for a startup. That would also provide a bridge for me to join Prof Todd Warren at Farley Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation where I would specifically join the NUvention; Web + Media. Through this unparalleled program I would have the intimacy of working in a team with fellow wild cats towards an innovative business project. The results of which will be an introduction to the Northwestern Innovation and New Ventures Office (INVO) through which I look forward to gaining practical exposure in launching businesses to the general public.

Outside McCormick, I would be excited to pursue the Managerial analytics Certificate program at Kellogg to acquire intelligent business management skills, let off steam at SPARK exploring hacks while fostering entrepreneurial habits, and eventually joining preparations for the Benedictine Eagle Invite at the Henry Crown Sport’s Pavilion (SPAC) with the NU track club. I may not the best of singers, but I do have intense phases of music obsessions and where best to let it off than taking non major classes at Bienen and, joining one of the numerous Acapella groups as I await Armadillo day!

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #3

Why Northwestern? Because this introduction was so difficult to write; because I cannot possibly summarize these reasons in one introductory sentence. Simply put, my interests span across a wide range, and Northwestern has a place for them all.

As an enthusiastic programmer and advocate for positive minority representation in the media, I hope to combine both these interests and conduct research on the influence of media on society. To my delight as a prospective communications major, the School of Communication's research labs showcase project topics ranging from the depiction of STEM in media to improving digital communication. I look forward to taking advantage of the high-quality research, internship and even career opportunities offered to explore my ideas.

My multiple passions keep me creative and energetic, and I plan to continue pursuing them at Northwestern. With years of editing and writing experience for school publications under my belt, for instance, I hope to join the staff of Helicon and North by Northwestern . Last but not least is the constant school spirit and sense of inclusion present within campus. During my campus tour, each tour guide seemed genuinely excited to introduce prospective students to the school. As my particular tour guide described the quarter system and tradition of guarding and painting the rock with passion in her eyes, I knew that only at Northwestern could I find students as enthusiastic about the school itself as they are about their majors. I also spotted many students of color while visiting; as an Asian woman, Northwestern's focus on diversifying reassures me that not only will I not be judged for my background, but that I will get to meet students of all ethnicities and cultures.

College is a time of self-discovery, and I firmly believe I can see my dreams become reality at Northwestern.

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #4

I felt the cold sheets beneath me and the beeping sounds of a monitor next to my bed, my chest moving up and down and my body sinking into the mattress. I opened my eyes and was greeted with a plastic surgeon holding the cyst that was once in the corner of my eye. Medicine, I decided, was my destiny.

Flash forward to 8th grade, the year I decided to read 100 books. Emerson, John Green, Ernest Cline--you name the author, I read them. I became instantly inspired to learn to write like the wonderful authors I had read. So, writing, I decided (maybe), was my destiny.

Wait--or was it medicine? Well, perhaps it can be both.

The thing I find most striking about Northwestern is its emphasis on the word “AND.” Northwestern students can love computer science AND music theory, poetry AND Latin History, journalism AND business--I can love science AND English. At Northwestern, my interests would not be hindered by strict and unwavering guidelines. Rather, they could be effortlessly streamlined and integrated into one another. I could go from ​PSYCH 361--Brain Damage and the Mind to ENG 206 - Reading and Writing Poetry to Carol Clayberger’s Lab to continue my extensive research on T-lymphocytes, similar to that I conducted at UPMC. I would be learning each level of the human psyche, communicating my thoughts through writing, and putting them into action through my research.

At Northwestern, I plan to take advantage of the various resources that would enable me to pursue my passions, find new ones, and combine them into one, pulling from both sides of my brain. I know that I am right for Northwestern and Northwestern is right for me because we have a mutual understanding of what education should look like--emphasis on “AND,” not “OR.”

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #5

Think Purple: Aspiring journalist dreams of being a Wildcat F​iled under ​A​dmissions​, ​Top Stories

After brochure browsing, website wandering, and campus canvassing what felt like hundreds of different schools, it took Daisy Conant exactly 32 seconds on the Northwestern University campus to realize she had found the one.

“Northwestern is undefinable in the best way, an addicting hub of intellectuality, creativity, and school spirit - something especially appealing to a football lover,” laughed Conant. “But what excites me most about NU is the opportunity to study at the Medill School of Journalism.”

A writer with hopes of becoming a foreign correspondent, Conant has always been drawn to people and their stories, especially those completely unfamiliar to herself and her experiences. Once learning she could start on day one at Medill acquiring investigative journalism experience writing an enterprise story and end on day 600 with a journalism residency and international experience already under her belt, she was hooked.

“Conducting groundbreaking research on the socioeconomic disparities in the CPS system for the Medill Justice Project, spending a semester abroad reporting on cultural crisis in Greece, interning at the Post - at Medill, my options are boundless,” remarked Conant. “I could explore the world of print news writing in-focuses for the Daily Northwestern, dabble in magazine editing laying out spreads for North by Northwestern, even try my hand at broadcast reporting for WNUR.”

A journalist at heart, Conant is fascinated with the intersections of other disciplines. As an NU student she would be free to engage her passions for international studies and business through outside concentrations in addition to investigative journalism, uncovering the adventures (and discovering the tenacious Wildcats) that lie between Evanston and the shores of Lake Michigan. “My story is just beginning,” said Conant. “And Northwestern is the perfect lede.”

Northwestern Essay Example #6

Prompt: Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (100-250 words)

I held my breath as my trembling fingers, made for the enter key, my eyes glued to the screen savoring every moment. In a split of a second, the results of my sleepless nights were imprinted on the screen.

>>>syntax error

I felt my eyes became watery but I quickly forged a smile convincing myself I wasn’t about to cry.

However disappointed I felt that moment, it wasn’t something new to me. I am not a natural programmer and I have failed more than a million times when running my codes. In fact, I have gotten used to failing, that anytime I get it right on the first attempt I assume I got lucky and I redo the code. Every time I get a syntax error I have eventually learned something new from the code. It’s at these moments that I have learnt more about my world.

Through coding, I have learnt to appreciate shortcomings in life as room for improvements. I have come to understand being raised in a camp in Chalbi dessert is a chance for me to have the first-hand experience of what needs to be done to make the world a better place. I stopped being disappointed I was born in a less tech-savvy country and seen it as an opportunity for me to create an impact with the much I have learnt. I understand with every syntax error, every life obstacle, I learn and take a step closer to a perfect code, achieving my dreams.

What Can You Learn From These Northwestern Essays?

These 6 Northwestern essays that worked show you exactly what it takes to write successful "Why Northwestern?" essays. Answering the "Why Northwestern" statement as best you can is the key to having a successful Northwestern application.

What did you think of these Northwestern essays?

Meet the Author

Ryan Chiang

I'm Ryan Chiang and I created EssaysThatWorked.com - a website dedicated to helping students and their families apply to college with confidence & ease. We publish the best college admissions essays from successful applicants every year to inspire and teach future students.

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What do outstanding essays have in common? Here are our 23 most effective strategies based on lessons from admitted students.

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Mastering Northwestern University's 2023-2024 Supplemental Essays

If you're looking to paint the perfect picture for Northwestern University, you'll need to convincingly demonstrate your passion, commitment, and fit to their academic community. This blog post will delve into Northwestern's supplemental essays for this admissions cycle, offering detailed advice, prompt-by-prompt analysis, and examples from successful past applications.

Northwestern’s Commitment: "Why Northwestern?" (300 words max)

This classic prompt seeks to understand why you're interested in Northwestern. Here's a succinct but convincing response from a former applicant:

"Northwestern’s balanced commitment to research and undergraduate education is what draws me in. As a prospective biology major, the Undergraduate Biological Sciences Education Research program's dedication to improving biology education through research strikes me as a unique opportunity to contribute to my field, even as an undergraduate.

Additionally, the Integrated Science Program (ISP) at Northwestern aligns with my belief that today's scientific problems require interdisciplinary approaches. ISP's rigorous coursework and research opportunities would provide the interdisciplinary scientific foundation I seek.

Moreover, Northwestern's bustling arts scene complements my academic interests. I look forward to joining the Northwestern Bands to continue my passion for music and build lifelong friendships."

Community Engagement: "While other parts of the application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community. In 300 words or less, help us understand what aspects of Northwestern appeal most to you, and how you'll make use of specific resources and opportunities here." (300 words max)

This prompt emphasizes your potential contribution to the Northwestern community. Here's an impressive response from a previous applicant:

"As an advocate for mental health awareness in my high school, I'm drawn to Northwestern’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). I am excited to join the CAPS Peer Network and facilitate conversations around mental health on campus.

Northwestern's "One Book One Northwestern" program also intrigues me. The communal reading and subsequent discussions would allow me to engage with diverse perspectives, something I'm passionate about. I would love to participate in these discussions and even help organize events for this program.

Moreover, I would love to contribute to the interdisciplinary dialogue at the Kaplan Humanities Institute. I can already see myself attending lectures, engaging in thought-provoking discussions, and furthering my understanding of the world."

Approaching Northwestern's supplemental essays, strive to highlight your interests, experiences, and how they connect with the resources and opportunities at Northwestern.

Remember, the admissions committee is eager to learn more about you . Let them do so through your essays.

Good luck and happy writing!

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Northwestern Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

Northwestern University, nestled by the shores of Lake Michigan, is not just a place of learning; it’s a vibrant community where ideas intersect, cultures converge, and individual stories weave into the larger narrative of the university’s legacy.

Here, your voice matters; through the supplemental essays, you have the unique opportunity to let that voice echo through academia. These essays are your moment to transcend beyond numbers and lists of achievements; they are your space to breathe life into your application , to infuse it with color, personality, and depth.

As you embark on this task, remember that Northwestern’s supplemental essays 2023-2024 are a canvas, and you are the artist; with each stroke of your pen, you can illustrate who you are and who you aspire to become within the Northwestern community.

How Many Supplemental Essays Does Northwestern Have?

As you navigate the application process for Northwestern University , it’s essential to understand the expectations for Northwestern’s supplemental essays 2023-2024. The university requires applicants to submit one mandatory essay that serves as a window into their personal experiences and how these experiences have shaped their perspective on engaging with the Northwestern community. This essay is not just an assignment; it’s a narrative that encapsulates your journey and the distinctive qualities you bring to the table. But the task continues.

In addition to this required essay, applicants can choose from optional prompts . These prompts are your chance to distinguish yourself further and to showcase the breadth of your interests and the depth of your reflections. They are an opportunity to demonstrate how your unique voice and vision align with the dynamic spirit of Northwestern.

Strategic Approach to Selecting Which Optional Questions to Answer

Approaching Northwestern’s supplemental essays 2023-2024 with a strategic mindset is paramount. When deciding which optional questions to tackle, consider where your strengths lie and which stories you still need to tell.

Think of these optional essays as pieces of a puzzle that, when put together, presents a complete and engaging picture of who you are. The goal is to select prompts that complement the required essay, fill in any gaps in your profile, and ultimately underscore your readiness and enthusiasm for contributing to the vibrant Northwestern community.

What are the Northwestern Supplemental Essays 2023-2024?

The required essay prompt for Northwestern’s supplemental essays 2023-2024 is a reflective question that asks you to consider the various aspects of your background, identity, or the settings of your school, community, or household that have significantly influenced your view of engaging with Northwestern’s community.

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?

This prompt is not just about recounting your experiences; it’s about distilling the essence of those experiences into a coherent narrative that aligns with the values and opportunities at Northwestern. It’s about pinpointing the elements of your upbringing and environment that have equipped you with unique perspectives and skills and how these will translate into your academic and extracurricular endeavors on campus.

Optional Short Answer Questions

Northwestern understands that some of the questions might not apply to everyone. However, it is recommended that you take the opportunity to answer at least one and no more than two questions that you find relevant. Keep your responses concise and limit them to no more than 200 words per question. Below are the optional short answer questions for Northwestern Supplemental Essays 2023-2024:

• Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?
• Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?
• Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.
• Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?
• Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

How to Write the Northwestern Supplemental Essays 2023-2024?

When contemplating your response to Northwestern’s supplemental essays 2023-2024, it’s crucial to employ strategies that allow for deep reflection on your personal experiences and identity. Begin by mapping out the essential experiences that have defined you—those turning points that have steered your decisions, values, and goals.

Consider the cultural, social, and educational contexts that have influenced your worldview. Reflect on how these experiences have carved out the individual you are today and how they resonate with the intellectual and social climate at Northwestern. It’s about weaving a narrative rich with insight that captures the nuances of your journey and how it has prepared you to be an active, contributing member of Northwestern’s community.

Northwestern Prompt 2023-204

The Northwestern University Supplemental Essay for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle presents a unique opportunity for applicants to share their personal stories.

This question seeks to understand the multifaceted nature of your experiences and how they have prepared you to contribute to and thrive in Northwestern’s diverse community. It’s an invitation to delve deep into your journey and reflect on the experiences that have significantly influenced your perspective and aspirations.

Understanding the Prompt

To connect your background to the Northwestern community in your essay, start by familiarizing yourself with the university’s culture, values, and offerings. Research the academic programs, extracurricular activities, and social initiatives that align with your interests and experiences.

Then, in your essay, draw clear lines between your past experiences and how they have equipped you to engage with these aspects of Northwestern. Discuss specific opportunities you plan to pursue and how your unique perspective will add value to the campus dialogue.

This is not just about stating a desire to join the Northwestern community; it’s about demonstrating a thoughtful and intentional plan to immerse yourself in the campus culture, contribute to its diversity of thought, and grow within its collaborative and innovative environment.

Brainstorming Your Response

Consider creating a list to organize your thoughts effectively when brainstorming your response. Here are some potential points to include:

• Cultural Heritage: Reflect on how your cultural background has shaped your worldview and interactions with others.
• Family Dynamics: Consider the influence of your family structure or dynamics on your personal development.
• Educational Experiences: Consider how your school experiences, including any significant academic or extracurricular activities, have impacted you.
• Community Involvement: Describe any community service or local involvement and its effect on your sense of social responsibility.
• Challenges Overcome: Share any obstacles or challenges you’ve faced and how they’ve shaped your resilience and perspective.
• Unique Interests or Talents: Discuss any special interests or talents and how they might contribute to Northwestern’s community.
• Global Experiences: If applicable, talk about any international experiences or travel that have broadened your understanding of the world.
• Career Aspirations: Link your background and experiences to your future goals and how they align with Northwestern’s offerings.

Structuring Your Answer

In structuring your answer, aim for a cohesive and engaging narrative. Start with an introduction that sets the tone and gives a glimpse into the central theme of your essay. Each paragraph should focus on a different aspect of your background or experiences, providing specific examples and reflections. Ensure that each point ties back to the main question, illustrating how your experiences have prepared you for engagement in Northwestern’s community.

Conclude with a strong closing paragraph summarizing your key points and reiterating your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute to and benefit from Northwestern’s diverse and dynamic environment. Remember, the goal is to provide a well-rounded picture of your identity and how your unique experiences have shaped you.

Northwestern Optional Short Answer Questions 2023-2024

The Northwestern University Supplemental Essays for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle include optional short answer questions. These questions allow applicants to showcase different facets of their personality, interests, and experiences.

Each question targets a specific aspect of campus life at Northwestern, from traditions and community involvement to the unique location and the value of diversity. Applicants are encouraged to respond in fewer than 200 words per question, making it essential to provide concise yet impactful answers that reflect their individuality and how they envision themselves contributing to the Northwestern community.

Understanding the Optional Short Answer Questions

To effectively approach these questions, it’s essential to understand what each one aims to uncover about the applicant. The question about “The Rock” explores your creativity and what matters to you.

The interdisciplinary culture question is about your academic interests and innovative thinking. The community question examines your social and extracurricular engagement, while the location question concerns your connection to Northwestern’s unique setting.

Finally, the diversity question asks you to reflect on how your background can enrich the campus community. Each question offers a window into a different part of your life and how it aligns with Northwestern’s values and environment.

Brainstorming Your Response to the Optional Short Answer Questions

When brainstorming your responses, consider the following listicle approach for each question:

• The Rock: Identify a cause, event, or idea you’re passionate about. Reflect on why it’s important and how it represents your values or interests.
• Interdisciplinary Project: Consider a unique class or project that combines your interests. Consider what makes it innovative and who would make ideal collaborators.
• Community Involvement: List communities or groups at Northwestern you’re interested in. Reflect on why they appeal to you and how you can contribute.
• Location Appeal: Identify specific aspects of Northwestern’s location that excite you. Consider how these elements align with your academic or personal interests.
• Contributing to Diversity: Reflect on aspects of your background that provide a unique perspective. These experiences can add value to classroom discussions and campus life.

Structuring Your Answer for the Optional Short Answer Questions

Each response starts with a clear, engaging introduction addressing the question. In the body of your answer, provide specific examples or ideas that illustrate your point. For instance, if you’re discussing a project idea, outline what it entails and why it’s essential.

If you’re reflecting on a community, describe what draws you to it and how you see yourself getting involved. Remember to connect your response to how it relates to your potential experience at Northwestern.

Conclude each answer by summarizing your main point and reiterating your enthusiasm for the opportunity to bring these aspects of yourself to the Northwestern community. Remember, clarity and authenticity are essential – your responses should answer the questions and give a glimpse into who you are and what you’ll bring to campus.

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Don’t let the complexities of college applications hold you back. Join the ranks of successful AdmissionSight students and turn your college aspirations into reality. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and embark on the path to academic excellence.

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How to Write Northwestern University Supplemental Essays

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 4/26/24

Northwestern University is a popular addition to any college list. If you're ready to enjoy the vistas Lake Michigan offers, get ready to write the Northwestern supplemental essay. 

Northwestern University is a popular school for many applicants due to its location near Chicago and its focus on interdisciplinary studies. Writing a compelling essay is a pivotal step for showing your fit with the school's values. 

With a rigorous Core Curriculum , the Northwestern essays demonstrate to the admissions committees why you're an excellent fit for their school. It shows that you've done the research necessary to understand how its course offerings mesh with your educational goals. 

This article provides tips for tackling Northwestern's supplemental essays, along with examples of essays that were successful. Crafting the perfect essay for Northwestern doesn't have to be difficult - read on to learn how to write a masterful essay and get into Northwestern ! 

Northwestern Supplemental Essay Prompts 2024-2025

You'll need to write a personal statement as part of the Common Application or Coalition Application which should be a direct response to this prompt below. Your response should be no more than 300 words. 

Northwestern Personal Statement Prompt

“We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?”

Additionally, you have the option of responding to one or two of these optional Northwestern essay prompts. While it is not required, you’re highly encouraged to write at least one .

“Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?”

“Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?”

“Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.”

“Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?”

“Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?”

How to Write Each Essay Prompt For Northwestern

Writing each essay can be difficult, so we’ve created an outline on how to tackle each one. Below, you’ll find an analysis of each prompt and tips on how to best write your essay.

How to Write Northwestern Supplemental Essay #1 + Analysis and Tips

"Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?"

Analysis of Prompt #1: This creative prompt allows applicants to demonstrate their interests, values, background, and how they would engage with campus life at Northwestern. It reveals what matters most to applicants.

Tip #1 : Choose a design that ties to your background, interests, or values not already showcased elsewhere in your application. Explain the deeper meaning and importance behind what you would paint.

Tip #2 : Use vivid imagery and details to help the admissions officers visualize and understand your rock design and its significance to you.

Tip #3 : Explicitly connect your idea for the rock to how you envision contributing to campus life at Northwestern as a student. Show your enthusiasm for engaging with the community.

Tip #4 : If applicable, relate your rock design to your intended major, academic interests, or future goals to showcase fit with Northwestern's offerings.

Tip #5 : Brainstorm creative ways to get your message across visually that would grab attention and interest from the Northwestern community.

How to Write Northwestern Supplemental Essay #2 + Analysis and Tips

"Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?"

Analysis of Prompt #2: This prompt allows applicants to demonstrate creativity, passion, and knowledge of Northwestern's interdisciplinary focus. It's a chance to show original thinking and innovative ideas.

Tip #1 : Choose a unique yet feasible topic at the intersection of multiple disciplines. Avoid overly broad or already offered topics. Explain what would be explored.

Tip #2 : Show in-depth knowledge of the topic and Northwestern's ability to support the idea through collaborations across schools and disciplines. Name specific programs or professors.

Tip #3 : Describe what students and collaborators could gain from this experience and why it would be impactful. Use vivid language that gets the reader excited about the idea.

Tip #4 : Emphasize how the class or project aligns with and furthers your academic interests and future aspirations. Relate it to your major or career goals.

Tip #5 : Explain why you are the ideal student to make this idea a reality by citing your background knowledge, skills, or relevant experience with the topic or project type.

How to Write Northwestern Supplemental Essay #3 + Analysis and Tips

"Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus."

Analysis of Prompt #3: This essay reveals applicants' interests and goals not shown elsewhere. It demonstrates the desire to be actively engaged in campus life.

Tip #1 : Choose a student organization, club, or campus community tied to background, values, or goals not already discussed in other essays.

Tip #2 : Convey why involvement with this group deeply matters to you and how it would lead to personal growth.

Tip #3 : Describe specific leadership roles, events, or initiatives you want to participate in and your potential contributions.

Tip #4 : Explain how belonging to this community would allow you to make an impact on campus aligned with your aspirations.

Tip #5 : If relevant, relate the group back to your intended major, academic discipline, or future career goals.

How to Write Northwestern Supplemental Essay #4 + Analysis and Tips

"Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?"

Analysis of Prompt #4: This essay reveals applicants' academic and professional goals and how Northwestern's location supports those interests. It demonstrates knowledge of the resources available nearby.

Tip #1 : Research opportunities in Chicago related to your academic discipline or career aspirations. Explain which specific options excite you.

Tip #2 : Provide examples of how you would take advantage of the location based on your goals and enrichment opportunities that inspire you.

Tip #3 : Describe any previous experiences that spark your interest in engaging with Chicago resources or motivate you to explore the location.

Tip #4 : Relate location details back to specific Northwestern offerings such as courses, faculty, or programs that would complement or further these goals.

Tip #5 : Convey genuine enthusiasm and personal reasons why proximity to Chicago appeals rather than just facts about the city itself.

How to Write Northwestern Supplemental Essay #5 + Analysis and Tips

"Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?”

Analysis of Prompt #5: This essay reveals applicants' academic and professional goals and how Northwestern's location supports those interests. It demonstrates knowledge of the resources available nearby.

Tip #1 : Consider all aspects of your identity or background that aren't highlighted elsewhere, including cultural, ethnic, religious, geographic, socioeconomic, or personal experiences.

Tip #2 : Explain specific viewpoints, values, or insights your life experiences have instilled in you that shape your perspectives and provide examples.

Tip #3 : Emphasize what you can positively contribute to classroom discussions and campus life by sharing these diverse perspectives with others.

Tip #4 : Describe how your background has made you more understanding and equipped to connect across differences.

Tip #5 : Conclude by reiterating why your diversity of perspectives would enrich learning and dialogue at Northwestern.

Examples of Northwestern Supplemental Essays That Worked

The following essays were written by successful applicants who were admitted to Northwestern University. We provide feedback explaining why each essay effectively demonstrated the applicant's fit with Northwestern.

Sample Essay #1

“I would paint a butterfly on “The Rock”. This choice is deeply rooted in my identity as an Indigenous person, where the butterfly holds profound symbolism of transformation and metamorphosis.

In Indigenous cultures, the butterfly represents not only physical transformation but also spiritual growth and renewal. It embodies the idea that change is a natural part of life and that through struggle and perseverance, one can emerge stronger and more beautiful. This symbolism resonates with my own journey and the experiences of many Indigenous individuals who have faced adversity, colonization, and the challenges of preserving their cultural heritage.

Painting a butterfly on "The Rock" would not only celebrate my culture but also serve as a reminder to the Northwestern community of the importance of embracing change and transformation. It would symbolize the resilience of indigenous peoples and the beauty that can emerge from the process of personal and collective growth.

Moreover, the butterfly's presence on "The Rock" would promote awareness and appreciation of Indigenous cultures, fostering a sense of unity and understanding within the Northwestern community. It would encourage conversations about the significance of Indigenous symbolism and the importance of recognizing the contributions of Indigenous peoples to our shared society.”

Why Essay #1 Worked

This essay uses the symbolism of the butterfly in Indigenous cultures to convey the writer's personal growth and tie it to promoting cross-cultural understanding at Northwestern. The vivid explanation allows the admissions officers to visualize the rock design and shows the applicant's passion for celebrating their heritage.

Sample Essay #2

“My dream project would be groundbreaking undergraduate research aimed at exploring the potential of homeopathic remedies in breast cancer treatment. Having tragically lost three family members to cancer, I am fervently driven to investigate alternative, less invasive approaches to combat this devastating disease. Witnessing their suffering and the toll that harsh medicines took on their health has underscored the urgency of exploring gentler alternatives.

My ideal research project would assemble a diverse team of students from various academic backgrounds, including biology, chemistry, complementary medicine, and patient care.  

We would analyze the impact of homeopathic remedies on cancer cells, patient well-being, and quality of life. Additionally, we would collaborate with oncologists, herbalists, and holistic healthcare practitioners to bridge the gap between conventional medicine and alternative therapies. Together, we could unlock the untapped potential of nature's medicine cabinet.

This research project not only aligns with my personal passion but also exemplifies Northwestern's interdisciplinary ethos by bringing together students and experts from diverse fields to tackle a critical issue. We would strive to provide hope and more compassionate, effective treatment options for those battling breast cancer while minimizing the harm that traditional treatments can inflict on their bodies.”

Why Essay #2 Worked

This essay outlines an ambitious yet feasible interdisciplinary research project aligning with Northwestern's values. It demonstrates the writer's interest in collaborating across fields to make an impact. The deeply personal motivation for studying cancer treatments also allows the essay to stand out.

Sample Essay #3

“I eagerly anticipate joining the pre-med community at Northwestern, a vibrant and supportive network where my passion for medicine will find a nurturing home. This community embodies my aspirations and values, as it fosters collaboration, learning, and a shared commitment to healthcare.

Within the pre-med community, I envision forging meaningful connections with fellow aspiring healthcare professionals who, like me, are driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. Together, we will navigate the challenging path toward medical school, sharing experiences, supporting one another through rigorous coursework, and collectively striving for excellence.

Furthermore, I am excited about the potential to engage in healthcare-related volunteer opportunities and research projects that Northwestern offers. These experiences will not only enrich my academic journey but also deepen my connection to the broader healthcare community on campus.

In the pre-med community, I see myself not only as a student but as an active participant in a collective mission to contribute to the well-being of others. Northwestern's commitment to community and belonging aligns perfectly with my vision for my pre-medical journey, and I eagerly anticipate becoming a part of this inspiring network.”

Why Essay #3 Worked

This essay conveys the applicant's alignment with Northwestern's tight-knit campus community. It spotlights their passion for medicine and desire to support fellow pre-med students. The emphasis on participating in healthcare-related activities shows their commitment to active engagement.

Sample Essay #4

“Growing up in Chicago, Lake Michigan was a place of cherished memories. My father and I would spend countless hours fishing on its shores, forging a bond that would shape my values and dreams.

As I embark on my own academic journey at Northwestern, I find myself drawn to this beautiful shoreline, which symbolizes both my roots and my aspirations.

My father, a dedicated Northwestern alumnus, left a lasting impact on my life. In his final moments, he expressed a profound sense of incompleteness. His legacy has become my driving force. Coming to Northwestern and being near Lake Michigan is, for me, a way to complete his mission. I aim to study political science and eventually law, follow in his advocacy footsteps, and work towards helping others in a way that he felt he couldn't.

This location is not just where I come from; it's where I am actively choosing to build my future and honor my father's memory. Northwestern's setting connects me to my biggest inspiration and reminds me of the potential for positive change in the world, making it the perfect place for my academic and personal growth.”

Why Essay #4 Worked

This essay uses vivid imagery and personal connections to showcase the significance of Northwestern's location. Linking their goals to continue a family legacy gives deeper meaning to studying there. It aligns location with values.

Sample Essay #5

“Growing up in foster care, I always had a suitcase packed by the door. This constant state of preparedness, always getting ready to move to a new place, made it challenging to ever feel truly at home. Yet, Northwestern represents the kind of community I've longed for—a place where individuals with diverse backgrounds from around the world come together to learn and connect.

Throughout my life, adaptability and resilience have been my constant companions. I've learned to embrace change, connect with people from various walks of life, and navigate through different environments.

This background has taught me the value of empathy, understanding, and the significance of creating a sense of belonging for others, as it's something I often yearned for during my journey through foster care. My experiences have honed my ability to bridge gaps, mediate conflicts, and foster connections among individuals from diverse backgrounds.

My story serves as a reminder that diversity goes beyond cultural or ethnic differences, encompassing a wide range of life experiences that can enrich our collective learning and strengthen our sense of community.”

Why Essay #5 Worked

This essay offers a compelling background story and emphasizes the applicant's ability to connect across differences. It underscores their unique perspectives that would enrich campus diversity. The focus on empathy and community is well-aligned.

Get More Sample Essays Here!

The prep doesn’t stop there. View our database of over 190 essay examples from some of the top schools. 

Still have questions about Northwestern essays? We’ve got you covered! Check out the section below for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. If you’re looking for a complete Northwestern application guide, check out our college guides directory .

1. How Many Supplemental Essays Does Northwestern Require?

Northwestern requires one 300-word supplemental essay and also provides four additional 100-word essay prompts that are optional but highly encouraged. At least one of the optional essays is recommended.

2. When Are Northwestern Supplemental Essays Due?

The Northwestern supplemental essays are due at the same time as the rest of the Northwestern application. Typical deadlines are January 1 for early decision and January 5 for regular decision.

3. How important are the supplemental essays for Northwestern?

The Northwestern supplemental essays are very important for the admissions decision. Along with your Common App essay, they allow you to explain why Northwestern is the right school for you and how you will positively contribute to campus life. Put time into crafting a thoughtful, well-written response.

4. Will Northwestern Always Have the Same Supplemental Essay Prompt? 

No supplemental essay at any college is set in stone. Schools can change their supplemental essay prompts each cycle, but they usually revolve around the same themes. 

5. Is Northwestern’s Activity Chart Another Supplemental Essay? 

No, but it is another mandatory piece of your application. The activity chart is your opportunity to describe your extracurricular activities in detail and include their depth and scope. 

Final Thoughts

Northwestern's supplemental essay gives you a chance to showcase your fit beyond test scores and grades. Research the school to find specific connections between your goals and Northwestern's offerings. Use vivid examples and anecdotes to illustrate what makes you a great match for the Northwestern community. With thoughtful responses, you can boost your chances of admission.

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Northwestern’s Supplemental Essay Prompts

• Post author By Dr. Elizabeth Doe Stone
• Post date November 9, 2023
• No Comments on Northwestern’s Supplemental Essay Prompts

With a rich history dating back to 1851, Northwestern University has consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States, known for its exceptional faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a diverse and engaged student body. It is also one of the most competitive, with over 52,000 applicants last year and an overall acceptance rate of 7%. The university’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary learning and a strong sense of community ensures that students have access to a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Northwestern’s beautiful lakeside campus is just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city of Chicago, providing students with countless cultural and professional experiences. As you delve into Northwestern’s supplemental essays , consider how your unique background and aspirations align with the university’s values and offerings to craft a compelling application that showcases your potential as a Wildcat.

Essay Guidance

Get our expert guidance on your college essays.

In addition to one required essay, applicants to Northwestern are also asked to answer 1-2 optional questions that focus on the specific ways Northwestern would be a good fit.

NORTHWESTERN’S SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAY PROMPTS

The following question is required for all Common Application and Coalition with Scoir applicants (optional for QuestBridge applicants). Please respond in 300 words or fewer:

1. We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?

2. The following questions are optional, but we encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

A. Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

B. Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

C. Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

D. Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

E. Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

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It’s important, throughout your essays, to highlight how your unique qualities would contribute to Northwestern’s community, emphasizing how they align with the university’s values and goals. Ultimately, the key to a successful response is to demonstrate a genuine connection between your background and your potential role within Northwestern’s diverse and dynamic environment.

Are you aiming for Northwestern University ? Not sure how to approach these questions strategically? Contact us today to discuss our Essay Guidance Program or Personal Boot Camp !

Top Tier Admissions is tracking supplemental essay prompts for all top schools here — we look forward to supporting you !

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How to Write the Northwestern University Supplemental Essay 2017-2018

Northwestern, a beacon of strong academics located in Evanston, Illinois, currently occupies the 12th spot in U.S. News and World Report’s National Universities rankings .

With an acceptance rate of 10.6%, Northwestern offers competitive programs in almost every academic field. In particular, the Medill School of Journalism is consistently ranked as the best journalism school in the world, and the School of Communication is renowned for its stellar theater program.

The average SAT score of accepted applicants is 1510, with an average weighted GPA of 4.13 — meaning that most accepted applicants were close to the top of their class.

With this in mind, it is easy to see why Northwestern University is a selective school. This can be intimidating, especially when penning their essays for the first time. But we here at CollegeVine are here to help. Read on for helpful tips and tricks on tackling the Northwestern supplement.

Want to learn what Northwestern University will actually cost you based on your income? And how long your application to the school should take?  Here’s what every student considering Northwestern University needs to know.

Northwestern University Application Essay Prompt

‘why northwestern’ statement (completion strongly recommended), other parts of your application give us a sense for how you might contribute to northwestern. but we also want to consider how northwestern will contribute to your interests and goals. in 300 words or less, help us understand what aspects of northwestern appeal most to you, and how you’ll make use of specific resources and opportunities here..

Since Northwestern only has one 300-word supplemental essay, candidates with lots of information to convey may feel restricted by the lack of space. Thus, it is helpful to approach the prompt in two directions. First, discuss your interests and goals; second, explain how Northwestern will help you further these intellectual and personal endeavors.

A common trap many applicants fall into when writing is trying to cram their entire resume into this short essay. But listing off every single high school extracurricular is counterproductive and unnecessary; there is already a section for that in the Common Application. Instead, this essay is your time to piece together a cohesive picture of your character, drawing from the essence of your Common Application — the extracurriculars, the awards, the advanced classes, etc. — and explain why these ventures will best be realized at no other institution but Northwestern University.

If you are applying to the School of Journalism, you would be ill-advised to dedicate one paragraph to your love for speech and debate, one paragraph to your leadership of the school magazine, and one paragraph to your internship at the local newspaper over the summer, though you may love these three activities equally. Instead, choose a single interest to discuss.

An example:

You could write about your ability to influence with storytelling, and then explain how Northwestern’s unique journalism residency program for undergraduates’ junior and senior years will help you expand your audience. By focusing on one or two skills, your essay as a whole will present more depth, as opposed to the breadth evidenced by your Common Application.

Moreover, adding “flavor” to the essays by elaborating on your personal connection with your chosen interests, and the unique contributions you have made to them are also critical to your candidacy. Remember that you do not have to win a Nobel Prize or cure cancer to engage your readers and make them feel that you will add to the excellence of the institution. Uniqueness is conveyed through personal anecdotes, narrated with a detailed voice.

If you are passionate about biomedical engineering, do not write, “I love the intersection between biology and engineering.” Everyone majoring in biomedical engineering also finds such overlap appealing. Instead, start the essay with an anecdote about how when you missed school because of a stomach flu, you spent the long hours in bed sketching designs of ingestible micro-machines that could disseminate antibiotics more efficiently than regular medicine, thinking of the pain it would spare you and millions of other people.

Not only is this specific anecdote a more appropriate way of conveying to the reader that biomedical engineering already permeates your life, it also implies that you are inventive and industrious with your time. This supplement is only 300 words, so using specific anecdotes like this with multiple layers of meaning is essential to saturating the space with as much content as possible.

Do not, however, treat this as a shorter Common Application essay . Ultimately, the emphasis is on your fit for Northwestern’s specific resources. You could begin by illustrating how you would bury your head in literature written by the likes of Kafka and Camus all weekend, then show up Monday morning before everyone else arrives at school for an advanced lab that aims to find a cure for Alzheimer’s, then transition to discussing how Northwestern’s Science in Human Culture Program is a perfect fit for you and your interdisciplinary mind.

Remember to talk about what you will actually do in the program; envision yourself there, already at Northwestern. What will your day look like? Which professors would you like to work with within the Science in Human Culture Program? What kind of scholarship or internship opportunities within the program will you take advantage of for your research proposal?

Again, specificity is key. Avoid making general statements such as: “Northwestern’s state-of-the-art theater program makes it the perfect school for me.” That answer is one that could be given by virtually anyone, even those who haven’t the slightest idea of what theater is. Generality connotes lack of interest, lack of research, and worst of all, lack of effort. So when writing this essay, ask yourself: What are the specific aspects of Northwestern University that sets it apart from all the other top 20 schools? What could I do at Northwestern that would be hard for me to do at other colleges?

Therefore, a strong essay by a prospective theater student could begin with discussion of how her passion for theater was ignited by an afternoon of people-watching in a small Parisian cafe, after which she developed a fascination with understanding humans that could only be satisfied by the versatility of the school’s theater program and the flexibility to double major across different schools. She can thus explain her intention to double major in theater and sociology. This essay works because the student demonstrates her personal interest in theater (Parisian cafe anecdote), elaborates on how she has contributed to the field (developed a fascination), and ties it to Northwestern’s specific resources ( versatility of theater program and double major), and then connects it all together with a concrete example of how Northwestern University would aide in her growth.

Be cautious of sounding overly presumptuous. Do not use phrases that imply that you have already been accepted. Instead, phrase things in terms of hypotheticals. For example, do not say: “When at Northwestern, I will be sure to use their biology labs to continue conducting research on stem cells in mice.” Instead, write: “As a Northwestern student, I would use the biology labs to continue conducting research on stem cells in mice, which I started during my junior year in high school…”

General Reminders

The Northwestern supplement may not allow a lot of words, but with a strategy in place, you can be sure that the essay you submit will make a substantial impact.

• Open with a personal, detailed anecdote about your intended major/interest (approximately 25% of the essay).
• Discuss your in-depth accomplishments in this field, without repeating what you have written in your Common Application (approximately 25% of the essay).
• Explain how Northwestern’s resources will aid in your development in this particular field. Do not forget to sketch out what you hope to accomplish at the school (approximately 50% of the essay).

With these three things in mind, writing Northwestern University’s supplement will be a lot easier.

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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Northwestern University

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Want to see your chances of admission at Northwestern University?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

Northwestern University’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Why this college short response.

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?

Select-A-Prompt Short Response

The following questions are optional, but we encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

Northwestern University Supplemental Essays Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to approach the Northwestern essay prompt? With tips from a Harvard graduate, CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the Northwestern supplemental essays 2021 will show you how to write an engaging Northwestern University supplement essay that will maximize your admissions odds. If you need help crafting your Northwestern supplemental essays, create your free  account  or schedule a no-cost advising consultation by calling (844) 836-8250.

Northwestern  Supplemental Essays — Quick Facts:

• Northwestern has an acceptance rate of 9%— U.S. News  ranks Northwestern as a  most selective  school.
• We recommend answering the Northwestern essay prompt thoughtfully and thoroughly in order to increase your chances of admission.

Does Northwestern have supplemental essays?

Yes! In addition to the personal statement that you’ll write for the  Common App  or  Coalition App , all applicants must respond to  one Northwestern essay prompt . We will discuss this Northwestern supplement essay in detail later in this guide.

Note that students who apply to additional programs within Northwestern—such as Northwestern’s  Integrated Science Program  or  Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences —may be asked to write additional Northwestern supplemental essays. For more information on these programs and their requirements, visit the Northwestern  website . This guide, however, will focus on the primary Northwestern essay prompt required for all applicants.

What are the Northwestern supplemental essays?

The Northwestern essay prompt can be boiled down to one classic question—why Northwestern?

You’ve likely encountered similar prompts during your college process. However, while the Northwestern essay prompt might seem straightforward, that doesn’t make it any less important. Rather, this “Why Northwestern” essay can make or break your application. After all, admissions officers want to admit students who will attend their institutions. Strong Northwestern supplemental essays will demonstrate a genuine engagement with Northwestern and its offerings.

We’ll discuss the full Northwestern essay prompt in more detail later in this guide. Still, as you brainstorm for your Northwestern supplement essay, think about why you want to attend Northwestern. Your Northwestern University supplement essay should cite specific reasons why Northwestern is right for you. Once again, the best responses to the “Why Northwestern” essay will show that students have done their research.

Visit the Northwestern website, take a campus tour, or speak to current students about their experiences. Think about classes you’d like to take, professors who interest you, clubs you would like to join, and more. Strong Northwestern supplemental essays will reveal a deep engagement with the university and its offerings.

Is the Northwestern supplemental essay required?

Yes—all applicants must complete the Northwestern supplement essay to be considered for admission.

However, don’t let the “Why Northwestern” essay scare you. Instead, view the required Northwestern University supplement essay as a chance to introduce yourself to the admissions team. Your readers already know your grades and test scores. A great response to the Northwestern essay prompt can boost your candidate profile and help you stand out in the admissions process.

Remember, the Northwestern supplemental essays 2021 are your opportunity to show demonstrated interest (DI). DI is used by universities like Northwestern to determine how interested a student is in attending their school. Last year, there were over  39,000  applicants to Northwestern. Demonstrated interest, communicated through Northwestern supplemental essays can make the difference between two statistically similar students. The individual who has clearly demonstrated their enthusiasm about Northwestern in their “Why Northwestern” essay, beyond the obvious reasons for attending (prestige, reputation, etc.), is more likely to be admitted. As you approach the “Why Northwestern” essay, think about the fact that 13.7% of colleges said that DI was considerably important in freshman admissions, and another 25.5% said it was  moderately important . Students with authentic, personal, and engaging Northwestern supplemental essays have a higher chance of admission!

How do I write the Northwestern supplemental essay?

So far, we’ve talked about the importance of research, engagement, and authenticity in the Northwestern University supplemental essay.

Completing the additional Northwestern supplemental essays 2021 for the science and social programs? Don’t worry—you can use the breakdown below for the “Why Northwestern” essay to help you craft engaging responses to those Northwestern supplemental essays as well. The science and social programs also ask for demonstrated interest in their prompts—specific reasons that draw you to that program and Northwestern University. The direction that we provide will help you articulate that clearly in all of your Northwestern supplemental essays 2021.

How to Write Northwestern Supplemental Essays — Question 1 (Required)

Now that we’ve discussed some elements of strong Northwestern supplemental essays, let’s break down the Northwestern essay prompt:

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community. In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond. (300-word maximum)

As we’ve discussed, this is a classic “Why Northwestern” essay. However, before we describe strategies for writing your Northwestern supplement essay, let’s focus on the language this Northwestern prompt uses.

Defining the Prompt:

This Northwestern essay prompt centers around engagement. Namely, it asks “how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community” as well as “how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities” at Northwestern. In evaluating the Northwestern supplemental essays 2021, the admissions team wants to identify students who will actively enrich the academic, artistic, cultural, and social communities at Northwestern. Your Northwestern University supplement essay allows you to show what impact you’d make on Northwestern’s campus.

As you brainstorm for your “Why Northwestern” essay, keep this idea of active engagement in mind. Northwestern doesn’t want to admit students who will passively experience campus life without offering their own contributions. Instead, they want students who will be active participants in the spaces they occupy.

Next, notice that the Northwestern supplemental essay asks for “specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities” that interest you. These Northwestern essay prompt categories are intentionally broad and could include clubs, classes, programs, libraries, and many other facets of Northwestern. No part of campus life is off-limits for your Northwestern University supplement essay!

Brainstorming:

We’ve unpacked the Northwestern supplemental essay—now, let’s start brainstorming.

Begin brainstorming for your “Why Northwestern” essay by researching the school. Think about what first attracted you to Northwestern. Was it the region? The campus? The programs? Any of these things could form the basis of your Northwestern University supplement essay.

Make a list of everything about Northwestern that interests you. Feel free to include broader topics—you likely won’t use these broader answers in your Northwestern supplement essay, but they can help you find specific topics that excite you. For instance, if you’re interested in exploring Chicago, write that down. Then, look into specific  clubs  at Northwestern that work within the community. For example, which of the two sentences, better reflects demonstrated interest in a Northwestern supplement essay?

Ex. 1. Since visiting at the age of five, I’ve always wanted to attend school in Chicago.

Ex. 2. I would love to join Northwestern’s Botany and Bees organization. Their work with the Evanston Environmental Association and other organizations in and around Chicago is one of the reasons that I decided to pursue a degree in environmental studies at Northwestern.

The second sentence is obviously a better answer to a “Why Northwestern” essay than the first. An admissions officer reading Northwestern supplemental essays would breeze right through the first applicant’s essay—there are many schools in Chicago—an applicant only looking to attend a school in the area could apply to any other college. The second sentence, however, is quite specific to Northwestern, you wouldn’t be able to miss the applicant’s interest.

Defining “community”:

Northwestern supplemental essays 2021 will answer the question of “how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community.” Notice how the Northwestern supplement essay emphasizes  community . Unlike some “Why school” essays, the “Why Northwestern” essay explicitly asks you not to think about yourself in isolation. Instead, successful Northwestern supplemental essays 2021 will emphasize how, in specific terms, you hope to relate to the communities—academic, social, extracurricular, or otherwise—that make up Northwestern University.

As you brainstorm your Northwestern supplement essay topics, remember that there are no wrong answers. While you’ll eventually want to reference specific professors, clubs, courses, and opportunities in your Northwestern University supplemental essay, use this brainstorming session to be honest with yourself. Strong Northwestern supplemental essays will come from authentic self-reflection.

Freewriting and reflection exercises

Once you’ve made this list, it’s time to get specific. Begin with a structured free-writing session. What that looks like: identify three of the resources, opportunities, and communities that most appealed to you from your research of Northwestern. Set a timer and write on each subject for 10 minutes, spending a total of 30 minutes writing. Were there any topics you wrote about easily? Any topics that you struggled to write about? Make note of these until you identify your strongest topics.

For more information on reflection exercises and choosing a topic for your supplemental essays, you can read our  blog article .

Let’s look at another example. Say you were interested in studying sustainable energy and were particularly interested in Northwestern’s programs. This already gives you plenty to discuss in your Northwestern supplement essay. However, you could make your Northwestern essay prompt even stronger by including more specific details. You might use your “Why Northwestern” essay to talk about your interest in the Argonne-Northwestern Solar Research Center or your desire to assist certain key professors in their research. Strong Northwestern supplemental essays will show the admissions team that you’ve considered Northwestern’s offerings and that you care about making an impact on their community.

Additionally, the interest you write about should line up with the rest of your application. For instance, if you’ve written your personal statement on poetry and have spent little time engaging with STEM fields academically, it may not be wise to describe an interest in computer science—unless, of course, you can complement that interest with related classes and extracurriculars! Your Northwestern supplement essay should enrich your candidate profile, not muddle it.

Hopefully, after a thorough brainstorming session, you’ve found solid topics for your Northwestern supplement essay. These resources, opportunities, and communities should relate specifically to the Northwestern essay prompt—if you can swap out Northwestern for any other school and the essay works, then you’ll need to go back to the drawing board.

Congratulations—you’ve begun crafting your Northwestern supplement essay! Now, it’s time to start writing.

Northwestern supplemental essays 2021 have a limit of 300 words. This isn’t a lot, so you’ll want to use each word wisely to maximize your essay’s impact. As you start to draft your Northwestern supplement essay, however, try not to get hung up on the word count. Save your stress for revisions—for now, focus on getting words on the page.

You might choose to open your essay with an anecdote. To return to the renewable energy example, you could write about your experience working with an environmental advocacy group. You could then connect that work to your desire to make a change using Northwestern’s resources. This can be an effective way to show your reader where your interests originate and how they’ve made you who you are. You can also discuss how Northwestern’s resources inform your educational and career goals.

Additionally, don’t lose sight of the Northwestern essay prompt’s emphasis on community. As you write, think about how your interests relate to your future professors and peers. Will joining a specific club help you find like-minded people? Do you hope to meet your future research partner in one of Northwestern’s labs? The best Northwestern supplemental essays will reveal a dedication to community as well as an engaging set of individual interests.

Once you’ve written your Northwestern supplement essay, you can start thinking about the word count. Look at each word and ask yourself whether it belongs. While cutting phrases, sentences, and even whole paragraphs might feel discouraging, careful editing will make your writing stronger!

Finally, the best Northwestern supplemental essays will tell a story. In reading your “Why Northwestern” essay, the admissions team should be able to determine what interests you, where these interests come from, and how these interests will inform your place in the Northwestern community.

Northwestern Supplemental Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Does your Northwestern supplement essay draft mention specific resources, organizations, and/or opportunities you hope to pursue at Northwestern?
• Do you emphasize the role community plays in your hopeful future at Northwestern?
• Does your draft authentically reflect your interests?
• Do you show you’ve done your research on Northwestern University and its offerings?
• Does your draft complement the rest of your application?

Is the Northwestern supplemental essay important?

Yes! The Northwestern supplemental essays 2021, like previous years’ essays, have a major impact on admissions.

As a  highly selective  university, Northwestern receives thousands of applications from qualified candidates each year. In fact, their  admissions rate  is falling steadily. What does this mean? More students are applying, but the university’s open seats aren’t increasing. Candidates often have similar grades, test scores, and even extracurricular achievements. This can make it hard for any student to stand out. Don’t let this discourage you from applying. Use every available tool at your disposal, including the “Why Northwestern” essay to make a case for why you should be admitted.

Your Northwestern University supplement essay lets you show the admissions committee what makes you special. Essentially, your Northwestern supplement essay is an introduction and case for admission. Your readers don’t take this lightly, and neither should you!

Remember, the strongest Northwestern supplemental essays 2021 will allow the admissions team to visualize a particular student on Northwestern’s campus. Your Northwestern supplement essay has a lot of power—use it wisely.

Northwestern Supplemental Essays: Final Thoughts

The Northwestern University supplement essay prompt might seem intimidating. However, don’t let this discourage you! As long as you approach your Northwestern supplement essay with consideration and planning, you can write an essay sure to stand out.

In the research phase of answering the Northwestern supplemental essay, make sure to check out our free webinar on Northwestern University. In this 60-minute panel with a Q&A session, two Northwestern alumni discuss their experiences applying to and attending the university.

A well-crafted Northwestern University supplement essay can make a huge difference to the admissions team. Use this guide to help you craft an engaging Northwestern essay that will boost your chances of admission. Finally, don’t forget to revise, edit, and proofread your final Northwestern supplement essay. You might also ask a parent, counselor, advisor, or other trusted adult for a second pair of eyes.

To see examples of essays written by our advisors who were admitted to Northwestern, check out last year’s blog article.

We hope this guide helped you gain a stronger understanding of the Northwestern supplemental essays 2021. Good luck!

This Northwestern supplemental essays guide was written by Abbie Sage, Harvard ’21. For more CollegeAdvisor.com resources on Northwestern, click  here . Want help crafting your Northwestern supplement essay? Visit app.collegeadvisor.com to create your free  account  or  schedule a no-cost advising consultation  by calling (844) 836-8250.

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3 Tips to Write a Perfect "Why Northwestern" Essay

College Info , College Essays

Northwestern University is an excellent choice for college, but can you easily explain just why you want to go there? If you're planning to apply to Northwestern, you'll need to submit the Northwestern supplemental essays —supplemental statements that describe why you've chosen to apply to this school and what you think Northwestern can offer you in terms of your future goals.

In this article, we'll go over what these supplemental essays entail as well as why you're required or encouraged to submit them. We'll also cover various topics and tips you can use to craft a compelling Northwestern supplement essay.

Feature Image: Herb Nestler /Flickr

No More Northwestern "Why This College" Essay

In the past, Northwestern asked students to write an optional "why this college" essay , which asked students to explain why Northwestern was a perfect fit for them. As of 2023, Northwestern no longer requires a "why this college" essay as part of the application process. 

Instead, the Northwestern application now has new essay prompts  that students have the option to answer. 

While Northwestern no longer has a "why this college" essay , many other schools require it.  Other schools that require or offer this type of essay include NYU , Tulane , and Brown .

If you're considering applying to a school with a "why this essay" prompt, reviewing 

Do You Need to Submit the "Why Northwestern" Essay?

According to the Northwestern application, although you are not required to submit the "Why Northwestern" essay, Northwestern strongly recommends that you do so anyway.

On both the Common Application and Coalition Application (depending on which system you use), you'll be shown this message on the Northwestern application:

Do you plan to complete the ''Why Northwestern'' Statement? (We strongly encourage a response, as your answer will help us connect the dots across your application to imagine what kind of college student you might become.)

You'll then select either "Yes" or "No" from a drop-down menu. If you select "Yes," you'll get a blank space in which to type/paste your essay. While you technically have a choice about whether to submit the "Why Northwestern" essay, we strongly recommend that you complete it.

Here's what the Northwestern application requirements page says in regard to the essays that applicants must submit with their applications:

"Applicants to Northwestern complete two sets of essays: essays appearing on the Common Application or Coalition Application, and the Northwestern Writing Supplement essay [i.e., the 'Why Northwestern' essay]."*

*Bold emphasis mine

Interestingly, there's no mention here of the "Why Northwestern" essay being optional at all—you're simply expected to write it. It's safe to say, then, that this "extra" essay actually plays a hugely important role in the application process, and that the majority of Northwestern applicants write two essays for their applications: the Common App/Coalition App essay and the (supposedly optional) "Why Northwestern" essay.

Additionally, it's worth noting that Northwestern highly values the concept of "fit" within their community . In this sense, it's not much of a surprise that Northwestern wants applicants to spend some time thinking about what kind of relationship they want to develop with the school.

Overall, you should treat the Northwestern supplement essay as a required part of your application.

The Northwestern Essay Prompt Analyzed

You should definitely submit the Northwestern supplement essay—but what is the prompt asking you to do, specifically? Also, how should you answer it so that you can give yourself a solid chance of getting accepted to the school?

In order to answer these two questions, let's take a look at the Northwestern essay prompt:

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community. In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.

Your "Why Northwestern" essay can be a max of 300 words, making it rather short. (Most college essays are around 500-550 words.) This means that you'll need to be clear and concise in order to get your point across and ultimately be able to craft an effective response.

This Northwestern essay prompt isn't that different from other "why this college" essay prompts in that it really just wants you to answer one big question: how will Northwestern help you further your interests and achieve your goals?

Northwestern already has a general idea of how you can contribute to the school; now, it wants to know how it can help you .

The "Why Northwestern" essay is more of a "why us" essay than it is a "why you" essay because it's asking you to elaborate on why you're applying to Northwestern specifically, and how an education there will help you fulfill your academic, professional, and/or personal aspirations.

Here are some topics you could write about in your Northwestern supplement essay:

• Your experience visiting the campus and talking to current students or professors and why this experience helped you envision yourself feeling at home at Northwestern
• Specific professors you want to work with or classes you want to take and how they'll help you achieve your goals
• Specific activities, clubs, or events Northwestern offers that you wish to participate in and why these are important to you and your aspirations
• Any other specific resources the school offers, such as internship opportunities, career fairs or connections, lectures and talks, study abroad programs, etc., that you believe will benefit your intellectual and professional growth

If you're not sure what to write about for your Northwestern supplement essay, spend some time doing research. Start by perusing the official Northwestern website , paying particular attention to pages about any programs, courses, and/or majors you're interested in.

You can also browse other student-geared websites to see what people have to say about Northwestern, including what makes it unique.

Real Northwestern Essay Examples + Analysis

Below are two real Northwestern essay examples for you to use as references when writing the "Why Northwestern" essay. The essays were both written by admitted applicants and should give you a good idea of what kinds of topics and styles you can use in your own essay.

Before we look at the two essays, though, be aware that both are answering an older, slightly different version of the "Why Northwestern" prompt, which was as follows:

What are the unique qualities of Northwestern—and of the specific undergraduate school to which you are applying—that make you want to attend the University? In what ways do you hope to take advantage of the qualities you have identified?

Northwestern Essay Example 1

As noted above, this first essay responds to an older version of the "Why Northwestern" essay prompt: it asked applicants to focus on the specific qualities that made the school unique and explain why these were ultimately appealing to them.

Since this student wanted to study in the Medill School of Journalism, he mainly writes about this facet of Northwestern.

At about 350 words, this essay is a little longer than what the current word limit allows (300 words), so just know that you'll have to write more concisely for your own essay.

Here's the sample:

One unquestioned pillar of journalism is the importance of accuracy in a journalist's work. So when my counselor at the National High School Institute, a current Northwestern journalism student, proclaimed, "Medill kicks your ass," I knew she had given my fellow cherubs and I the straight-up truth. Many exchanged nervous looks, and several immediately dismissed any chance of attending the Medill School of Journalism.

I surveyed the room, surprised at the fear hanging over the group. After all, we were 83 student journalists giving up a substantial portion of our summer to learn about and participate in the art.

Northwestern's reputation as a top-rated academic institution immediately drew me to the school. Specifically, the close connection with high-caliber professors was one quality that I originally found appealing even before my summer stay. I was also intrigued by the abundance of resources and facilities within the university and the city of Chicago. The journalism school has unmatched amenities and a rigorous curriculum designed to produce top-of-the-line journalists. But above all, Medill has a reputation as the best journalism school in the country.

Outside of the classroom, I would be the first to get involved with resources such as the Northwestern News Network, The Daily Northwestern , Northwestern Radio WNUR, and other student periodicals.

Northwestern's outstanding academics combined with an athletic program in the Big Ten Conference makes the university unique. It is certainly fun for everyone (except maybe for the Northwestern football team) to see the Buckeyes and Wolverines roll into Ryan Field every couple years.

I would be able to use my experience writing about the Detroit Lions to report on Northwestern teams. And by covering the lowly Lions, I would be prepared for any sort of losing season thrown at me.

But I am sure of one thing: I am attending college in order to learn, contribute, and to become the best journalist I can be. So while my friends may be having an easy, fun time at some school not named Medill, I'll be getting my ass kicked. And to tell the truth, I won't mind at all.

Here's what makes this "Why Northwestern" essay work:

• It's super specific. There's no doubt this essay was written for, and only for, Northwestern. The applicant goes into detail about the School of Journalism specifically and also mentions many unique opportunities he's interested in, such as working with The Daily Northwestern and the Northwestern News Network.
• It's got a lot of personality and humor. The applicant injects bits of humor with references to Medill "kicking his ass" and the Detroit Lions' losing streak. These quirky areas add tons of color to the essay and give balance to the student's more practical and academic reasons for applying to Northwestern.

Northwestern Essay Example 2

This second "Why Northwestern" essay example was written by an admitted student who chose to focus on extracurriculars at Northwestern and how the School of Engineering and Applied Science would benefit their desire to learn several skills at once. Once again, like the first essay, this essay is responding to the older version of the "Why Northwestern" prompt (given above).

Note that this essay is exactly 300 words long —the max length you are allowed to do for your own "Why Northwestern" essay.

Sweat drips onto my violin as we are filing into the auditorium.

I just arrived from a basketball game, I'm not nervous. However, that changes when I realize that I still have my basketball shoes on. And that I still have a plethora of edits to make in the newspaper room. And that I have three tests the next day.

Although it was stressful, I enjoyed every minute of juggling such diverse extracurriculars. I appreciated the many opportunities that my high school gave me, and took advantage of as many as I could handle. Thanks to these opportunities, I've fallen in love with various topics in different disciplines; all of which can be nurtured at Northwestern.

I'd be thrilled to pursue membership in the University Singers and the Philharmonia. It would be a great opportunity to learn from nationally recognized Emily Ellsworth with the Singers. I would also love to continue working with orchestral music in the Philharmonia.

The excellent humanities classes at the Weinberg School of Arts and Sciences also interest me. I'd love to pursue further education in subjects I was introduced to in high school, such as physics, psychology, and economics.

Finally, I believe that I am a perfect fit for the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science due to its unique philosophy. The idea of "Whole-Brain Engineering" meshes perfectly with my interest in a wide array of subjects and disciplines. I have always believed in equal emphasis on logic and creativity in problem-solving situations, and an education at McCormick (and Northwestern in general) will bolster my well-roundedness.

My Northwestern experience isn't only about reaching an engineering career, but growing as a person. Such balanced growth will allow me to succeed through analyzation and innovation, preparing me to have an impact on the world.

• It's got a creative, attention-grabbing opening. There's not a lot of space to write for this essay, yet this applicant manages to come up with a memorable hook that grabs you almost immediately and thrusts you into the story. Within just the first few lines, we learn—through showing, not telling—that the applicant plays basketball in addition to helping out with the school newspaper. While these activities have contributed to increased stress, they've also (and more importantly) led to a stronger sense of intellectual satisfaction.
• It's highly specific. Like the first sample essay, this essay uses clear examples and details to discuss what attracted the applicant to Northwestern in particular . These include things such as the University Singers and the McCormick School's philosophy concerning the importance of a well-rounded education.

How to Write a Great "Why Northwestern" Essay: 3 Tips

Once you have an idea about how you want to approach the Northwestern essay prompt and what you plan to write about, use the following three tips to help you produce a great essay.

#1: Focus On What Makes Northwestern Unique

One of the most important tips to remember when writing the Northwestern supplement essay is to concentrate on what makes Northwestern different from other colleges. Think about it: If Northwestern didn't offer anything unique, why would students want to apply there specifically?

Don't just say you want to go to Northwestern because it's super prestigious or because your mom went there and loved it. Think deeply about why you've chosen to apply to Northwestern over the thousands of other colleges in the country.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Does Northwestern offer the major(s) you're interested in pursuing? Is it well known for a specific program or field of study you want to enter?
• Are you interested in specific clubs, sports, or other extracurricular activities offered at Northwestern?
• Are there certain professors you wish to work with?
• What unique features of Northwestern do you like or think will be useful to you? For example, perhaps you're a fan of the school's close proximity to Chicago, where you'll have convenient access to research positions, internships, and other professional opportunities. Or maybe you love Northwestern's emphasis on small class sizes, or its impressive array of 100+ study abroad programs.
• Have current or former Northwestern students said anything about the school that made you want to apply there?

Although the Northwestern essay prompt is pretty open ended, take care to avoid writing about how prestigious, popular, and selective it is (after all, lots of schools are like this!) .

#2: Be Specific and Use Concrete Examples

You don't have a lot of space (just 300 words!) for the Northwestern essay, so try to write as clearly and specifically as possible. Use concrete examples to ground your story in reality and to make it clear to the admissions committee why applying to this school is so important to you.

For example, if you visited Northwestern, don't just say you went there and liked the campus—talk about something specific that happened to you and why this experience had such an impact on your decision to apply there.

Perhaps a professor said something encouraging to a student that made you realize how much you appreciated the supportive nature and sense of camaraderie there. Or maybe you noticed how earnestly students studied and could readily envision yourself doing homework alongside them.

In addition, if you plan to mention a specific professor you want to work with or a class you want to take, try to go beyond simple name-dropping. Instead, discuss why working with that professor or taking that class will help you attain your future goals, and why Northwestern is the only place you can actually do this.

#3: Polish It Up

As with any college essay, you need to spend some time editing and proofreading your "Why Northwestern" essay. Doing this will ensure that you're submitting a clean, polished, and overall well-written statement.

Here's what to do: once you finish writing a rough draft of your essay, put it away for at least a few days. Don't look at it during this time; you want to have a fresh perspective when you take it out again.

After some time has passed, take out your essay and begin to look for any glaring typos and grammar errors, as well as any areas you can expand, add, or delete. Pay attention to the organization and structure of your essay, too. Ask yourself: is the focus clear here? Am I being specific enough? Does the general flow make sense?

Once you've done this entire process a few times, give your essay to someone you trust, such as a mentor, teacher, parent, or older sibling. Have them look over your essay and offer comments on its topic, style, and structure. They should also check for technical errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Finally, make sure they read the Northwestern essay prompt so they can confirm that you're actually answering what's being asked of you.

What's Next?

Applying to Northwestern means you'll also have to submit an essay for either the Common App or Coalition App. Check out our guide to the current Common App essay prompts for tips on how to compose an unforgettable personal statement.

Freaking out about how to write a killer college essay? First, take a deep breath. Second, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a college essay and take a look at our analysis of 100+ real college essays to get a feel for what colleges want—and don't want—to read in an application.

Learn more about Northwestern, including its average test scores and average GPA, by reading its admissions requirements page .

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Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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Command Education Guide

How to write the northwestern university essays, updated for 2024-2025.

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? (fewer than 300 words, required)

Explanation:

The Northwestern University supplement asks you to showcase who you are to admissions officers and share how your background will shape the kind of community member you will be at Northwestern. In order to tackle this prompt, it is helpful to break this question down into two parts. First, reflect on your experiences and values to answer the question:

What aspects of your background, identity, school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped you?

Begin with a vivid and specific anecdote that encapsulates a key aspect of your background. This could be a defining moment, such as a significant challenge you overcame, a cultural tradition that has deeply influenced you, or a community initiative you led or participated in. Explain how this experience has shaped your identity and influenced your worldview. Be sure to connect this personal story to your broader engagement with your environment, demonstrating how it has prepared you to contribute to Northwestern’s community. Highlight qualities like resilience, empathy, leadership, or a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Then, reflect on what you want to study and why Northwestern is a good fit for you. As you answer, try to identify any connections between your values and your intended major. That will be your answer for the second question:

How will that impact what you do at Northwestern (academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, etc.)?

Be specific about how you see yourself contributing to and benefiting from Northwestern’s academic, extracurricular, and social environments. Mention particular programs, clubs, or initiatives at Northwestern that align with your interests and values. For instance, if you’ve been involved in community service, discuss how you plan to continue this at Northwestern through specific service organizations or projects. If your background has given you a unique perspective on cultural or political issues, explain how you will bring this perspective to discussions and activities on campus. Bear in mind that it is more impactful to cite programs, professors, research opportunities, and other unique opportunities you can find only at Northwestern, rather than generic clubs or courses offered at many universities.

Conclude by reinforcing how your background and experiences uniquely position you to enrich the Northwestern community, emphasizing your readiness to contribute meaningfully and grow alongside your peers in this dynamic and diverse environment.

“Trust me. Things just don’t make sense here…”

The wisdom and experience of my fellow HOPE Florida volunteers made it clear that there was nothing we could do to get Wanda enrolled in SNAP benefits without a permanent address. She was homeless—of course she didn’t have an address! There has to be a workaround. SNAP is designed to support low-income individuals to get access to nutrition.

Addressing and supporting the houseless community has been my passion since middle school. In my community, intersections are full of individuals asking for food. What began as storing and distributing snack kits from my parents’ glove compartment has turned into weekly volunteering and now, hopefully, systemic change.

Studying Learning and Organizational Change (LOC) at the School of Education and Social Policy will empower me to analyze diverse organizations, creating a personal framework for effective work in the public realm. The curriculum’s unique combination of learning sciences paired with business management and leadership development will allow me to better handle inevitable change and challenges.

As a teenager who has witnessed disparities within my own community, I’m committed to devoting my academic and extracurricular pursuits towards meaningful change. Education enables action, and Northwestern’s commitment to student experience resonates with me. Through my Junior Year Practicum, I will have the opportunity to gain first-hand professional experience and make an impact while still an undergraduate student receiving feedback from my professors.

Through the Community Engagement Certificate, I will take courses such as “Social Policymaking and Implementation,” where I will analyze the complexities of public policy and present a policy brief proposing alternative eligibility for federal benefits.

I am dedicated to serving marginalized communities, and I am certain that Northwestern’s dynamic curriculum, resources, and opportunities will allow me to realize my dream of making an impact.

Optional Prompts:

We encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two of the following questions. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

In order to effectively answer this prompt, students should Google “The Rock” to have a visual as they write. Given the public nature of painting The Rock, this prompt is your opportunity to share a message, value, or cause that you believe others should be aware of. Aim to showcase something unique about yourself or your interests that might not be elsewhere on your application so far, and don’t be afraid to get creative!

Be sure to answer both parts of the question, first describing what you would write on The Rock and then offering a compelling reason as to why you would write it. Explain why this message or image is important to you personally. Share any relevant experiences, such as involvement in related activities or personal encounters that have shaped your perspective, and connect this to how you hope it will resonate with the Northwestern community. Discuss the broader impact you aim to achieve, whether it’s raising awareness, fostering a sense of unity, or inspiring action.

“FEED THE FUTURE: food drive! 10/15/24, 2 pm, Hinman Hall.”

Surrounded by drawings of fruits and vegetables, this announcement would advertise a partnership between Northwestern’s Purple Pantry and a local food pantry in a nearby Chicago neighborhood.

Throughout high school, I participated in local activism and volunteer work fighting food insecurity and bringing fresh produce to food deserts in my region. Food insecurity affects those from all walks of life, including students on college campuses across the country.

I hope to continue my work in nutrition activism within the Northwestern community as a future member of the Purple Pantry. I would love to work not only to ensure that those in the Northwestern community have access to the proper quantities of nutritious food, but also to spread awareness about pervasive food insecurity. By connecting with others who share my passion, I hope to be a part of a larger network of student activists who will fight for equity on campus and in their hometowns.

Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

This question allows you to creatively present your academic interests while demonstrating your grasp of Northwestern’s interdisciplinary curriculum. While your response should reflect your distinct academic interests and research questions, note that the prompt is about collaboration, so it is essential that you reflect on how you might explore your interests in an innovative and community-oriented way.

First, brainstorm a creative title for your course, project, or creative effort that will catch your reader’s eye instantly. Next, identify ideal classmates and collaborators who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table. Consider students from different majors, highlighting how these varied backgrounds will enrich the project and foster a dynamic exchange of ideas. You should also showcase your knowledge of Northwestern by mentioning specific faculty members whose research aligns with your project and could provide mentorship, as well as any unique resources at Northwestern, like research centers or labs, that would support your endeavor.

EDU 305: Educational Technology and Social Change

The last few decades have seen great strides in educational technologies and their applications in fields such as the digital humanities. I would ideally develop a class that taught the ways in which these technologies can be used outside the classroom—whether in the workplace, nonprofit organizations and foundations, or the public square—to increase equitable access to information. I believe that democratizing knowledge and providing diverse thinkers with unique tools to process and better understand information will be a catalyst for social change. I would love to collaborate with Jennie Magiera, whose TED Talk on educational technology and equity inspired my interest in the topic, and I would hope to fill the class with students who share my passion for forward-thinking solutions toward a more inclusive future.

Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

With this prompt, admissions officers are seeking to envision you as a member of the Northwestern campus community. Where might they find you spending your time? This prompt is very similar to the first prompt, so be sure not to repeat yourself or mention the same communities. This is a great opportunity to write about research opportunities, clubs, study abroad programs, or other opportunities that are of interest to you. While you don’t want to repeat your response in the first essay, be sure to choose opportunities that fall in line with the hook you present in the rest of your application!

The sounds of the rhythmic banging on trash cans thunder behind me. I move my body in accordance to the choreography we spent weeks perfecting, perfectly in sync with the dancers to my left and to my right.

This is how I envision spending my free time as a Northwestern student: exploring the sounds of classical, hip-hop, and contemporary music along with my peers. Boomshaka appeals to me primarily because it embraces its members’ strengths to experiment with new mediums of expression.

This is a philosophy I hope to bring beyond the dance studio as a member of the Northwestern community, whether as a member of Girl Up at Northwestern, where I hope to find a community of like-minded women who want to further women’s rights initiatives, or MiniChefz, where I can dedicate myself to educating Chicago’s youth about the importance of nutrition and making healthy choices. Though my work advocating for the houseless community allows me to feel comfortable in advocacy roles, I look forward to using my strengths to explore new opportunities in the future, as well as connecting with like-minded individuals who similarly want to enact change in their communities.

Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

You should never use a school’s location as the primary reason for your desire to attend when answering a “why this school?” type prompt. However, this prompt provides you a specific opportunity to tell the admissions committee why you’re interested in completing your undergraduate studies in Chicago. The best way to answer this question is to research opportunities Northwestern uniquely offers because of their geography: perhaps a club or organization is involved in a specific Chicago neighborhood, or offers an internship or partnership opportunity in collaboration with a Chicago-based business. Be sure that you are not only highlighting the opportunities that Chicago has to offer, but also how Northwestern connects students to the broader community as well.

X marks the spot.

A large red X, intricately painted as part of a geometric mini-mural on the lakefill rocks, indicated to me that I had found my spot. It was as though with the most literal metaphor the spot was asking me to claim it as my own. Overlooking Lake Michigan, the colorfully painted rock provided a peaceful refuge on campus. During my campus visit to Northwestern, the spot afforded me the time to soak in all of the many joys and anxieties of the college application process, and I could envision myself as a student at Northwestern returning there to ruminate on future milestones. I imagined coming there to read and study on chilly fall days, to get away from the stress of exams and the rigor of classes, or to play spikeball with classmates on an unusually warm spring day.

Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Though you have likely written about one of your primary identities in the Common App personal statement, this is a great place to write about an aspect of your background or identity that you have not yet addressed elsewhere in your application. You can choose to write about an aspect of your sexuality, religion, or race or ethnicity that informs your viewpoint as a student. Pay attention to the latter half of the prompt—as you discuss this facet of your identity, be sure to explicitly address how it will contribute to the diverse tapestry of Northwestern’s campus community.

“I’d like to discuss what would happen if we were to propose amendments to the fundamental laws by which they run their society.”

Last spring, my English teacher asked our class to split into groups and write creative pieces about Ursula K. Le Guin’s “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas.” Some of my group members proposed stories about the experience of the single child upon whose misery the utopia relies. Others wanted to write about the fictional characters’ lives in the city, and another proposed writing about a young teenager who chose to walk away.

I, on the other hand, drew on Jewish tradition, and proposed a story about changing Omelas’ laws. Growing up in a Jewish household has taught me to question everything I am taught to believe, and as a result, I often take a macro-level approach to problem solving. My group ended up writing the story of a political revolution, ending in a change in Omelas’ functioning. The collective society would share the emotional load; each experiencing misery for one day. As I continue my educational journey, I hope to carry that skepticism and curiosity that has propelled my learning into this new season of discovery.

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? (300 words, required)

How will that impact what you do at Northwestern (academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, etc.).

The wisdom and experience of my fellow HOPE Florida volunteers made it clear that there was nothing we could do to get Wanda enrolled in SNAP benefits since she didn’t have a permanent address. She was homeless—of course she didn’t have an address! There has to be a workaround. SNAP is designed to support low-income individuals to get access to nutrition.

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Northwestern University Admission Essay Writing Guide

Application Guide

Essay examples, northwestern university essays.

Northwestern University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Students who attend Northwestern University can choose from various majors, minors, and concentrations. In addition to the many academic programs available at Northwestern University, students can also participate in several extracurricular activities.

Each student has the opportunity to find an academic program that meets their needs and interests. One may ask, 'Does Northwestern has essays?' The answer is yes, they do. All students who apply to Northwestern University will be required to submit an essay. The essay should be between 500 and 1000 words in length, and you should submit it along with the application form.

For students, the Northwestern university essay is just one part of the admissions process, but it can be a helpful way for the admissions committee to get to know you better. It would be best not to worry about the essay since several custom websites to buy essays online.

Application and Admission Process for College

You will need to submit an application form, an essay, and a non-refundable application fee to apply to Northwestern University. The admissions committee will review your application and decide based on your academic record, test scores, and extracurricular activities. If the university admits you, you will be required to submit a final transcript and proof of financial support.

Application Essays

All students who apply to Northwestern University are required to submit an essay. The essay is just one part of the admissions process, but it can be a helpful way for the admissions committee to get to know you better. The topic of the essay is up to you, but you should focus on your academic interests and how Northwestern University can help you achieve your goals. If you are struggling with these write-ups, work with an online site that specializes of this work. Our team of experts knows what each university needs and will be at your service with the utmost professionalism and unmatched work ethic.

Types of Northwestern Application Essays

There are different types of essays required for admission to Northwestern University. It can be challenging to know which article to write with so many choices. The best way to decide is to read the instructions carefully and choose the essay that best reflects your interests and experiences.

The most common types of essays are:

• Personal statement
• Letter of recommendation
• Scholarship essay
• Supplemental essay

Personal Statement Essay for Bachelor Students

It may require you to write a response to a specific question like the ‘northwestern why us essay’, or you may be asked to provide additional information about your academic record or test scores. The personal statement essay is your opportunity to tell the admissions committee about yourself and explain why you are interested in attending Northwestern University.

Letter of Recommendation for Master's Degree

It's good to have at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor who knows you well. The letter should be sent directly to the admissions office by the person who wrote it. Furthermore, if you have any questions about the application process, you can contact the admissions office for help.

The Northwestern University Supplement Essay

This type of essay is generally shorter than a personal statement, and it may be specific to a particular program or department. For example, if you are applying to the engineering program, you may be asked to write an essay about your interest in engineering. You will find Northwestern essay examples on the internet to help you write a winning essay. If you are applying as a transfer student, you will be asked to write an essay about your reasons for transferring to Northwestern University.

Graduate and Undergraduate Admissions Essay

All students who apply to Northwestern University as undergraduate students will be required to submit an essay. For graduate school, your essay should focus on your academic interests and how Northwestern University can help you achieve your goals. There are Northwestern essays that worked examples that you can use as motivation to write your paper.

Financial Aid Essay

All students who apply for scholarships will also submit an essay. The essay should focus on your financial need. The report will be used to determine your eligibility for graduate school financial assistance.

Scholarship Essay

If you are applying for a scholarship, you will write an essay about your academic achievements and future goals. You should also include information about your financial need.

Financial Aid for Graduate School

Northwestern University offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for their education. Students eligible for financial aid can receive grants, loans, and scholarships. In addition, the university also offers payment plans and work-study programs. The university provides several scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, and they do not have to be repaid. You can visit the university's website or contact the financial aid office for scholarships information.

Tips for Writing a Winning Essay for Scholarships

• Start early : The essay is just one part of the admissions process, so it is essential to start early. It will give you enough time to revise and edit your paper. Also, starting early will help you to avoid any last-minute rushing.
• Choose a topic you are interested in : The essay should be about something you are interested in, and it should be well-written. Writing what you love will make the article more interesting to read.
• Be honest: It is essential to be honest in your essay. The admissions committee wants to know who you are and what you are interested in. Do not try to change yourself to fit the mold of what you think the admissions committee wants to see.
• Be specific: The admissions committee wants to know why you are interested in attending Northwestern University. Be specific in your essay and focus on your interests. Please do thorough research on the university and its programs.
• Use examples: If you can, use examples to support your points. It will help the admissions committee to understand your facts better.
• Proofread and revise: Once you finish writing your essay, it is essential to proofread and edit it. It will help to ensure that your essay is free of mistakes. You may also want to ask someone else to read your article and provide feedback.

Cover Letter

For the internship application to be complete, you must submit a cover letter. The cover letter should be addressed to the admissions committee. In addition, the cover letter should state why you are a good fit for the university. It includes information about your skills and experience. It is essential to write a cover letter tailored to the position you are applying for. In addition, you can also personalize the letter for the college that you are applying to.

For the professor, address your cover letter to the person responsible for hiring employees. Since there are different schools in the university, it is best to address your letter to a specific school.

When writing your cover letter, be sure to:

• Use a professional tone: The cover letter is a formal document, so it is essential to use a professional tone.
• State your qualifications: The cover letter should state why you are qualified. Be sure to highlight your skills and experience.
• Explain why you are interested in the position: The cover letter should explain why you are interested and how you can contribute to the organization.

How to Write a Northwestern Application Essay

Introduction.

The introduction should be brief and concise. It should state the purpose of the essay. In addition, it should also introduce the topic that you will discuss in the paper. The intro should hook the reader and make them want to read more.

Moreover, the introduction should also provide some background information about the topic. It will help to set the stage for the rest of the essay.

Body paragraphs

The body paragraphs should be where you discuss your points in detail. Each section should focus on one central point. In addition, each paragraph should support your thesis statement. In addition, the body of the essay should also address the question that was asked in the prompt.

Every paragraph in the essay should be focused on a specific topic. The essay's body should be well-organized, and it should flow smoothly. It should be around 3-5 paragraphs long.

The conclusion is the last paragraph of the essay. It should summarize the main points that were discussed in the article. In addition, it should also leave a lasting impression on the reader. The conclusion should not introduce any new information.

Work-Study Programs for University Students

The work-study program is a financial aid option that allows students to work part-time jobs to help pay for their education. The work-study program is available to students who demonstrate financial need. Students who participate in the work-study program can work on campus. Campus jobs include positions in the library, the dining hall, and the bookstore. Off-campus jobs are typically in the community and are related to the student's field of study.

Final Thoughts

It is important to remember that the admissions committee is looking for bachelor's students who are a good fit for the university. In addition, the essay should be well-written and error-free. The admissions committee will review your report and your other application materials to determine if you are a good fit for the university.

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FAQ about Northwestern University

2024 Fall Quarter Updates

Dear instructors,  

We write to share several updates as you prepare for the Fall Quarter. 

We hope you have found the University syllabus statements page helpful in the past. This year we have simplified our approach by creating a single student-focused page displaying all the standard statements. You can now link to  this new page , eliminating the need for you to copy and paste each statement individually into your syllabi.  We recommend that you include the following in your course syllabus this Fall.  

Northwestern University Syllabus Standards   

This course follows the  Northwestern University Syllabus Standards . Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with this information.  

Second, instructors and students can now access ChatGPT through  Microsoft Copilot  at no cost to the user. This tool stores non-sensitive data securely, and Microsoft does not use it for product improvement or to train AI models. We encourage you to take a look at the many resources available to explore how  generative artificial intelligence can enhance your teaching this fall . 

For instructors of undergraduate students, we want to make you aware of a new  Undergraduate Policy on In-Person Arrival and Course Engagement , which specifies that undergraduate students enrolled in courses with in-person class meetings are expected to be on campus and in attendance no later than the end of the first week of the quarter, and must plan to remain in attendance until the end of the quarter. Should students make requests that fall outside of these requirements, you may refer them to the policy. 

Finally, as described in our  Policy on Academic Accommodations for Religious Holidays , students should not be penalized for class absences to observe religious holidays. Thank you for your efforts to support this important goal. To assist, we are piloting a new process for student requests concerning an undergraduate common midterm exam (a midterm that takes place outside of the regular class meeting time) or final exam. For such requests, students should complete  this form  managed by the Office of the Provost. Once we collect the information from students, Office of the Provost staff will follow up with you to discuss options for appropriate academic accommodations. Please remind students that all requests for academic accommodations for religious reasons should be made before the end of the second week of the quarter October 4, 2024. 

We wish you an engaging and fulfilling academic year. 

Sincerely,  

Jaci Casazza Assistant Provost and University Registrar 

Miriam Sherin Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education