Northwestern University | DeepColleges

Northwestern University · Evanston, IL

How Much Do APs Matter at Northwestern University?

AP Impact Score: 50/100

APs are considered but not decisive at Northwestern University. Focus on GPA and overall application strength.

What Northwestern University Values in Admissions (CDS Data)

From the Common Data Set — what Northwestern University officially says matters in admission decisions.

Factor	Importance
Academic Gpa	Very Important
Rigor Of Secondary School Record	Very Important
Class Rank	Considered
Standardized Test Scores	Considered
Application Essay	Very Important
Recommendation	Very Important
Extracurricular Activities	Very Important
Talent Ability	Very Important
Character Personal Qualities	Very Important
First Generation	Considered
Alumni Relation	Considered
Interview	Considered
Work Experience	Considered
Volunteer Work	Considered

Best AP Classes to Take for Northwestern University

Based on Northwestern University's most popular majors and admission priorities, these AP courses are most valuable:

For Social Sciences (20% of students)

AP U.S. History
AP Government
AP Economics (Macro/Micro)

For Engineering (11% of students)

AP Calculus BC
AP Physics C: Mechanics
AP Physics C: E&M
AP Chemistry

For Psychology (9% of students)

AP Psychology
AP Statistics
AP Biology

For Biological Sciences (9% of students)

AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Statistics

AP Strategy for Northwestern University Applicants

Take as many APs as you can handle well

At a school as selective as Northwestern University, 7-12 AP courses across your high school career is typical for admitted students. Quality matters more than quantity — a 5 on a hard AP beats a 3 on an easy one.

Score high for credit

Most colleges require a 4 or 5 to grant credit. AP credits can save you a semester of tuition — that's $15,000-$30,000 in real savings.

Match APs to your intended major

Admissions officers notice when your AP choices align with your stated interests. If you say you want to study engineering, AP Calculus and Physics should be on your transcript.

More About Northwestern University

Northwestern University Acceptance Rate Northwestern University Tuition & Cost Best Majors at Northwestern University Northwestern University AP Credit

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard. Northwestern University is not affiliated with DeepColleges.