School of Education & Social Policy
 
Application Process

Program | Finances | Certification | Application Process
Placement and Jobs | Miscellaneous

How do I apply? What tests are needed?

Applications are submitted online through Apply Yourself.

The following are required for application:

  • Application and four-part essay
  • GRE scores (general test, not the subject test); use institution code 3115. Those applicants who hold advanced degrees beyond the master's level (e.g.,M.D., J.D., Ph.D.) may petition to waive the Graduate Record Exam as part of the application.
  • Official transcripts (these must arrive in the MS office in sealed envelopes from the registrar; we need the transcripts from every institution you have ever attended, even if only for one course; if you have participated in a study abroad program through a different school, we need the transcripts from the university that sponsors the program.)
  • At least two recommendations (one of which should be from an academic source)
  • Foreign students should take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
  • Applicants for the Elementary or Secondary Teaching programs must also submit passing scores to the ICTS Basic Skills Test (or proof of registration to take that test).

When do I apply?

We have a rolling admissions policy, which means we are taking applications for each of the four quarters at Northwestern: fall, winter, spring and summer. However, we encourage you to apply as early as you can. Application deadlines can be found on our admissions page.

If I submit an online application on The Graduate School web site, will it get to you?

No. While The Graduate School does handle the admissions process for most graduate-level programs at Northwestern, including the doctoral-level programs at the School of Education and Social Policy, there are a handful of programs which handle the admissions process on their own. We are one such program. If you apply online on The Graduate School website, we will not receive your application.

Are there a limited number of spaces available in the program?

Not a number we have reached for this quarter. We are a competitive program, and certain concentrations have a larger number of students applying for them. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

When do you look at the applications?

Once your application is complete, we submit it to the admissions committee. Again, early applications are encouraged, especially if you are planning to apply for financial aid.

How long will it take to get a decision?

In general, you will know no later than four to six weeks after your application is completed and has been submitted to the admissions committee. We work to get a decision to you in writing as soon as possible.

Do you require an interview as part of the application process?

No, we do not require that applicants come in to interview with our program. However, we are happy to set up informational meetings for prospective students wanting to come in and meet with a staff member from our department. Contact the program manager, Pat Rodriguez, to set up an appointment. She can be reached by e-mail or by phone at 847/491-7526.

We also have monthly information sessions that we strongly encourage prospective students to attend. The director, as well as program staff and current students, are typically in attendance at these sessions. Most attendees have found these sessions to be very helpful in answering most of their questions about our program.

Monthly Information Sessions.

I was a Northwestern undergrad. Do I still need to have transcripts sent?

Yes.

What GRE scores do I need? What about GPA? TOEFL?

First, we look at the applications on their individual merit. We look at all of the materials and try to arrive at an accurate portrait of the applicant that includes experience, the breadth of previous coursework and recommendations. We do see scores and GPAs in all ranges. In general, however, competitive GRE scores will be in the 600s for the verbal section, in the 600s for the quantitative section, and 5 or above (on a 6-point scale) for the writing section. Competitive GPAs will be 3.0 or above.

Second, we recommend that you take the GRE at least one month before the application deadline in order for us to receive your scores and review your completed application.

Again, in general, competitive TOEFL scores will be a minimum of 550–600.

Do you accept the LSAT or any other standardized tests?

No. We accept the GRE. It is absolutely necessary for your application to be processed.

Where can I get information about the GRE?

Call toll free at 800/GRE-CALL (Or in Princeton, NJ at 609/771-7670). You can also visit the web site at www.gre.org.

How do I report my GRE scores to the MSED program?

If you have taken the test but did not indicate MSED to receive your scores, please call ETS to add us as a recipient; our school code is 3115. If you have not taken the GRE, please select NORTHWESTERN U MS PROG EDUC when indicating where you would like your scores mailed. Also, you may self-report your scores on the application form. If we do not receive your scores from ETS in a reasonable amount of time, we can call to verify your scores.

What if I've been out of school for several years and can't get an academic reference?

These situtations are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Include a note in your application that addresses this. There is a chance, however, that you may be asked to pursue a recommendation anyway. Depending on the time that has passed since your coursework and on the strengths of the other aspects of your application, as well as the concentration that you hope to enter, your application may be processed without the academic reference.

May I have recommendations or transcripts sent to the MSEd office directly?

Yes. We keep files of all application materials until the applications are complete, at which time they are passed on to the admissions committee. If you have materials sent independently of your application, please keep following up with our office until you know your application is complete.