Northeastern University Admissions 2026: Requirements, Application Deadlines & Fees

Known widely for its STEM-designated courses, Northeastern University remains a popular choice among international students for its cutting-edge research, co-op opportunities with the top global companies, and industry-related curriculum. Some of those most popular programs are  MS in Computer Science, Data Science, and Electrical Engineering. 

Also, international students benefit from Boston City as the university's location. 

International students need to have the English language proficiency as the Northeastern University courses are taught in English only. Look at the table given below to know what all scores do you need to get in -

Yes! Getting in is difficult at Northeastern, international students must have at least a GPA of 2.0 on a scale of 4.0 for UG admission and at least 3.0 for PG admission at Northeastern. Applicants are atleast required a GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 to be eligible for admission to UG and PG programs at the university.

The Northeastern University admissions can be considered very tough, as the acceptance rate for some of its most popular courses, like MS in Computer Science, Data Science, and Electrical Engineering, ranges between 20% and 25%. 

Although international students must not get discouraged by meeting the Northeastern University admission requirements, they can secure their offer letter. Mentioned below are those requirements:

• Four-year Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (Computer Science, IT, Engineering, Mathematics, etc.)

• A minimum GPA of 3.0 plus in the previously attended organisation

• Most of the students admitted had a GRE score of 308+

• An English proficiency test with a TOEFL iBT  score of 92+ and an IELTS score of 6.5+

• An SOP is required with two to three letters of recommendation

• Subjects like Programming, Mathematics, and Statistics (varies by program)

Maintaining a competitive edge with a very low acceptance rate hovering around 5%,  Northeastern University is a difficult university to get into. To be eligible to apply at this university, international students are required to fulfill certain eligibility requirements mentioned below: 

UG admission requirements

• Must complete a high school degree in a relevant discipline
• Standardized test scores of ACT/ SAT are optional
• Non-native English-speaking applicants must submit the proof of English language proficiency
• Submit the Declaration and Certification of Finances (DCF)

PG admission requirements

• Must complete a undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline
• Submit a personal statement, detailing your interest in the programme and goals
• Submit one to three letters of recommendation (vary by program)
• Must provide an updated professional resume and/or curriculum vitae
• Submit an official GRE, LSAT, or GMAT scores (If required by your program)

MBA admission requirements

• Complete a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline
• Unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools attended
• Two essays detailing your interest in the programme and goals
• Submit your updated professional resume
• Two letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
• Optional GMAT or GRE scores
• English language proficiency test scores

Also read: Requirements to Study in the USA for International Students

The Northeastern courses like MS in CS, Data Science and Cybersecurity are competitive courses and mostly require an earlier application. Well, the applicants can be strongly benefit from this. 

The reason being enough time for visa processing.  Earlier applications are always encouraged for a fair shot at Northeastern admissions as Indian students. 

Yes, Indian students have the option for a Summer start at Northeastern University but mostly in graduate professional fields. 

The timeline to start these programs is between May and August for which Indian students should try applying earlier (between January and March). It is important to apply earlier to allow visa processing.

If an applicant has applied for the Northeastern University admissions well, then this university takes a few months to get back with an application decision.

For the admission cycle 2026-2027, International students can expect the application decision for Early Decision 1 by Jan 1, 2027. 

For other rounds, the Northeastern dates are given below - 

• Early Action: Feb 15, 2027
• Early Decision: Mar 1, 2027
• Regular Decision: Apr 1, 2027

Yes, international students are required to pay a non refundable application fee to apply at NU. Look at the table given below for the exact fee you nee to pay here: 

(1 USD= INR 87.21)

To apply at Northeastern Uni Check out the steps mentioned below -

Log in to Common App and complete UG application for admission

Submit non refundable application fee

Submit required documents such as academic transcripts, LOR, SOP etc

Provide English proficiency score

Check your application status

Submit your student visa application

Northeastern University is very popular among international students, so naturally, this university can be considered a little expensive. Northeastern University, Boston, fees for international students vary between INR 48.77L and 55.72 L for the UG level, from INR 11.06 L to 58.46 L for the PG level. This should be noted that this is only the first- year fee without the inclusion of living and accommodation. The table below includes the Northeastern University fees for the first year:

International students are required to meet certain admission requirements to apply to Northeastern University undergraduate courses. Below are these mentioned: 

• Submit a secondary school report
• Minimum 2.0 GPA required
• Submission of standardized test scores
• English language requirements
• Academic Transcripts for each year
• Evidence of English language proficiency
• ACT/SAT score

As per the recent 2024 report of the Northeastern University overs 2,759 students get enrolled at the univeristy out of 98,425 applications. where nearly 5,133 students got admitted that means the univeristy selection process is completitive and students with higher academic performance and excellent test scores.

New International students are offered mentorship and buddy programs. The Office of Global Services (OGS) facilitates the entire process of pairing experienced peers with the newcomers to guide the international students throughout the first semester. 

Students can access the Global Student Support (GSS), which offers academic and English language support through tutoring, workshops, and group sessions made for international students. 

International students at Northeastern University who work part-time under F-1 status are entitled to standard protections under the US labor Law. During the studies or through the authorized practical training (OPT/CPT), international students must comply with visa rules, like working not more than 20 hours per week during semesters. Any violations can result in F1 visa revoke and deportation. 

Below are the rights and responsibilities for Northeastern University students: 

• Right to fair pay (must be paid at least minimum wage)

• Right to safe working conditions

• Protection from discrimination or harassment

• Off-campus work is allowed only with CPT/OPT authorisation

• Can report mistreatment to the university or the U.S. Department of Labor