Dhiraj Kandel
Sr. Student AdvisorSchedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
If you’re serious about learning from world-class faculty and working on real-life projects even as a student, Northwestern University should be on your radar.
Located just outside Chicago, this is a dream university for Nepali students who want to blend strong academics with innovation, career opportunities, and a supportive international community.
Whether you’re into journalism, computer science, economics, or theatre, Northwestern offers you a balance of Ivy-level prestige and Midwestern warmth.
And the best part? They welcome international students with strong academic potential—even if you didn’t go to a fancy school.
You get the charm of a lakeside college town with access to the energy and job market of one of the biggest cities in the US. Whether it’s internships in downtown Chicago or hangouts near Lake Michigan, you get the best of both worlds.
Northwestern alumni are everywhere—from Silicon Valley to Wall Street, from Broadway to international diplomacy. Students get access to one of the most helpful career development networks in the US, with a strong focus on internships and paid research.
Over 8,000 international students and scholars study at Northwestern. From international orientation to visa support and cultural festivals, you’ll feel seen and supported.
All campuses are interconnected, giving students opportunities to study and research across locations.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/campuses
Here are some of the top picks among international students, including Nepali students:
Stream | Course Example | Degree Type |
---|---|---|
Computer Science & IT | Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence | BSc, MSc |
Business & Management | Economics, Marketing, MBA | BA, BBA, MBA |
Engineering | Mechanical, Biomedical, Civil | BEng, MEng |
Media & Communications | Journalism, Film & Media Studies | BA, MA |
Social Sciences | Political Science, Psychology | BA, MA |
Arts & Performance | Theatre, Music, Performing Arts | BFA, MFA |
Pro Tip: Planning to study at Northwestern from Nepal? You can explore more courses and talk to Goreto counsellors to find your best fit.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/academics
Let’s be real—Northwestern is not a budget university.
But if you’ve got the grades, drive, and a story to tell, you could be looking at generous scholarships and excellent return on investment.
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Coverage |
---|---|---|
Northwestern University Scholarships | Need-based; strong academic background | Up to full tuition |
Northwestern Endowed Scholarships | Automatically considered based on the application | Partial to full tuition |
QuestBridge National College Match | For high-achieving, low-income international students | Full ride (tuition + living) |
External Scholarships (e.g., Fulbright, PEO) | Separate applications required | Varies |
These scholarships are highly competitive, so early application and a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) are key.
Goreto can guide you on writing a winning SOP and application essay.
Source: https://undergrad.northwestern.edu/financial-aid
From theatre festivals to tech clubs to South Asian dance crews—there’s something for everyone.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/student-life
Source: https://www.alumni.northwestern.edu
Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/universities/northwestern-university
Tuition Fees at Northwestern (2025 Intakes):
Program Level | Annual Tuition (USD) | Tuition in NPR (Approx.) |
---|---|---|
Undergraduate | $65,997 | NPR 8,713,595 |
Graduate (Avg.) | $50,000 – $70,000 | NPR 6,600,000 – 9,240,000 |
Exchange rate used: 1 USD = NPR 132. This may fluctuate. Check with Goreto for updated info.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/financial-aid
Living Expenses in Evanston / Chicago Area:
Expense Category | Monthly Estimate (USD) | Monthly Estimate in NPR* |
---|---|---|
Housing & Utilities | $800 – $1,200 | NPR 105,600 – 158,400 |
Food & Groceries | $300 – $500 | NPR 39,600 – 66,000 |
Transportation | $100 – $150 | NPR 13,200 – 19,800 |
Health Insurance | $250 | NPR 33,000 |
Personal Expenses | $200 – $300 | NPR 26,400 – 39,600 |
Total (Monthly) | $1,650 – $2,400 | NPR 217,800 – 316,800 |
Students often save money by cooking at home or living with roommates. Goreto’s pre-departure counseling helps you plan all of this smartly.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/student-finances
Northwestern University Library system is one of the largest private university libraries in the world, with:
Source: https://www.library.northwestern.edu
Northwestern’s Career Advancement Office helps students land internships and jobs with top global employers.
Many students also take part in research opportunities and co-op programs, especially in science and engineering.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/careers
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/careers
Northwestern graduates enjoy strong career outcomes:
Source: https://www.payscale.com/research/US/School=Northwestern_University/Salary
As an international student on an F-1 visa, you can:
Work Type | Allowed Hours | Where You Can Work |
---|---|---|
On-Campus | Up to 20 hours/week | Libraries, dining halls, labs |
Off-Campus (CPT/OPT) | After 1 year (with approval) | Internships, paid work |
Need help finding student jobs? Northwestern has a student job board and a dedicated job center.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/student-employment
Intake Season | Application Deadline (UG) | PG Deadlines |
---|---|---|
Fall (Sept) | January 1 (Regular Decision) | Varies by program |
Early Decision | November 1 | N/A |
Spring (Jan) | Limited courses available | Varies by department |
For undergrad, apply via the Common App. PG applicants must apply through the respective program portals.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/admissions
Program Level | Minimum Requirements |
---|---|
Undergraduate | Completion of +2 / A-Levels with a high GPA (3.6+ preferred) |
Graduate (Master’s) | 4-year bachelor’s degree with strong academic record (3.5+ GPA) |
SAT/ACT (UG only) | Optional but recommended for a competitive edge |
GRE/GMAT (PG only) | Required for some programs (especially MBA, Engineering) |
Northwestern has a holistic admissions policy—meaning your essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars matter.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/admissions
Document | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
---|---|---|
Academic Transcripts | +2 mark sheets | Bachelor’s transcripts |
Standardized Test Scores | SAT/ACT (optional) | GRE/GMAT (if required) |
English Language Test | IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo/PTE | IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo/PTE |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Personal Essay | Program-specific SOP |
Letters of Recommendation | 2 – from teachers | 2–3 from professors/employers |
CV/Resume | Not mandatory | Mandatory for most PG programs |
Passport Copy | Required | Required |
Financial Documents | Proof of funds for I-20 issuance | Proof of funds for I-20 issuance |
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/admissions
Test | Minimum Score (UG) | Minimum Score (PG) |
---|---|---|
IELTS | 7.0 overall | 7.0–7.5 overall |
TOEFL iBT | 100+ | 100+ |
Duolingo | 125+ | 125+ |
PTE Academic | 70+ | 70+ |
Higher scores give you an edge, especially if applying without SAT/GRE.
Source: https://www.northwestern.edu/admissions
Prog Code:
N/A
Duration:
4 years
Part time jobs:
Yes
PGWP eligibility:
Yes
IELTS:
7.0
TOEFL:
100+
PTE:
70+
*Note:
Fees in USD
Prog Code:
N/A
Duration:
2 years
Part time jobs:
Yes
PGWP eligibility:
Yes
IELTS:
7.5
TOEFL:
100+
PTE:
70+
*Note:
Fees in USD
MS Journalism
Prog Code:
N/A
Duration:
1 Year
Part time jobs:
Yes
PGWP eligibility:
Yes
IELTS:
7.0
TOEFL:
100+
PTE:
70+
*Note:
Fees in USD.
Guaranteed for first-year students. Options include traditional residence halls, suite-style housing, and themed communities. Cost: $12,000–$17,000 per year.
Apartments in Evanston are common for upper-year students. Average rent: $800–$1,200/month depending on sharing.
Support: Northwestern’s Off-Campus Life Office helps students find housing and roommates.
From choosing the right country to finding scholarships and housing — our counselors will guide you at every step.
Choose the right country based on your goals
Find courses that match your career plan
Get guidance on colleges and universities
Plan your finances, scholarships & part-time jobs
Plan your abroad stay & post-study plan