Admissions
What we look for in a student:
The MSC Program looks for students who show a life-long interest in learning and professional development. Because the program suits a wide variety of industries and careers, we actively seek students with a diversity of experience. Students must have a four-year baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. International students must have the equivalent of a four-year bachelor degree from an accredited institution.
Because the MSC Program is a focused, highly interactive program, we look for students who will add value to the classroom through their experience, perspective and academic excellence. Each application is viewed in context with the rest of the file, including the statement of purpose, resume, and letters of recommendation.
Application Process
The MSC Application consists of the following items:
- Completed online application, including a statement of purpose, uploaded resume, and $50 application fee.
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
We must receive transcripts in envelopes sealed by the issuing colleges or universities. PDF files originating from the issuing college or university are acceptable when sent directly to the MSC Admissions Office at msc@northwestern.edu. Transcripts not received in this manner are not considered official and will not be accepted.
Mailing address:
MSC Admissions
Northwestern University
2240 Campus Drive, 2-118
Evanston, IL 60208 - Three Recommendation Forms, each including a Letter of Recommendation, from persons who are familiar with your academic or professional work and can comment meaningfully on your potential as a graduate student (form available through the online application).
- Attendance to an open house (out-of-state or international applicants may schedule a phone call).
After application review, qualified applicants may be invited for a personal interview with the admissions office.
Applicants who obtained their bachelor’s degree outside of the U.S. must submit their transcripts to Education Credential Evaluators for a course-by-course verification instead of submitting them to the MSC office.
For international applicants:
- International applicants must also provide TOEFL results with a required minimum overall score of 100 and a minimum score of 26 on the “Speaking” section. Students with TOEFL scores below these standards will not be accepted. The test must have been administered after September 1, 2009. The MSC TOEFL code is 6162. The MSC Program does not accept the IELTS test.
- The TOEFL may be waived for applicants who live in countries where English is the official language or for applicants who completed their bachelor’s degree in the U.S.
Application Deadline
Early Decision: December 10, 2011
Priority Deadline: March 10, 2012 (International Student Deadline)
Late Admit (space permitting): June 10, 2012
International students must apply by March 10, 2012. Please note that International Student Applicants must also submit a TOEFL score, with a minimum required score of 100 on the TOEFL and a minimum score of 26 on the "Speaking" section. The test must have been administered after September 1, 2009. The MSC Program does not accept the IELTS test.
Questions and Status Updates
Contact Admissions at 847-467-1098 or msc@northwestern.edu with questions regarding the application process or for an update on the status of your application.
Application Decisions
After the admissions committee has reviewed your completed application, you will receive a letter informing you of its decision.
Once Accepted
Please sign and return the Intent to Register Form along with a $500 tuition deposit within 45 days of dated acceptance letter. Your place in the incoming class is not secure until both items have been received; accepted students risk losing their space in the upcoming class if they do not confirm their intent to register within 45 days.
Once classified as an incoming student, you will be able to apply for Federal Loans with the Student Financial Services Office.
If you are unable to return your IRF and deposit promptly, contact Admissions at 847-467-1098 or msc@northwestern.edu.
Accepted Student Checklist:
- Return the Intent to Register Form (IRF) with a $500 tuition deposit within 45 days of dated acceptance letter.
- Activate your Northwestern email account by changing your temporary password once MSC Staff emails you your account information.
- Complete the Entrance Health Requirements for Non-Healthcare students as mandated by the state of Illinois.
- If eligible and interested, apply for Federal Loans. See the Tuition and Funding page or visit Northwestern University’s Student Financial Services Office.
- If you were still finishing your degree when you applied, make sure the MSC Program receives an official copy of your final transcript showing the date your undergraduate institution awarded your bachelor’s degree.
- International Students should begin the student visa process.
MSC students are eligible to enroll in the part-time student NU/Aetna health insurance plan on a voluntary basis. To enroll, students must fill out the part-time application during the first quarter of enrollment. After completing the application, students must submit payment in full by check to the Insurance Office. Students who do not fill out the part-time application in the first quarter of enrollment will not be able to enroll in health insurance thereafter.
Note: The MSC Program reserves the right to make changes affecting the policies, fees, curricula, or any other matters referenced on this site.
