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UNITED STATES · BOSTON

Northeastern University

private · Founded 1898 · Languages: en

In short

Northeastern University is a private research university founded in 1898, with its main campus in Boston, Massachusetts, and a global system of 14 campuses. It is recognized for its experiential learning model, interdisciplinary research, and strong industry partnerships, offering diverse opportunities for students worldwide.

Key facts

Type: Private
Founded: 1898
Students: 27,133
International students: 17,000
Acceptance rate: 7%
Tuition (intl): €18–29k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Boston, United States

Northeastern University is a private research university founded in 1898, with its main campus in Boston, Massachusetts. The university is globally recognized for its unique experiential learning model, extensive research initiatives, and strong partnerships with industries worldwide. Northeastern focuses on hands-on experience, urban engagement, and interdisciplinary research to address global challenges in areas like health, security, and sustainability. It operates a global university system with 14 campuses across the U.S., U.K., and Canada, fostering a dynamic international community through academic programs, co-ops, research, and service opportunities.

Why study here

Gain real-world experience through the university's renowned experiential learning model, including co-ops, research, and international study.
Access a vast global network of 14 campuses, 49 alumni communities, and over 3,900 employer partners for diverse opportunities and collaborations.
Engage in high-impact, interdisciplinary research aimed at addressing critical global challenges in health, security, and sustainability.
Benefit from a flexible and responsive academic approach, with programs designed to fit alongside professional life and immediate application of research to practical problems.
Become part of a diverse and supportive community that encourages innovation and teamwork, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various fields.

Student life

Northeastern University offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for engagement. The university boasts 17 Division I athletics teams, including varsity esports, 55 intramural sports, and 64 club teams. Students are encouraged to explore various ways to feel like a 'Husky,' participating in campus activities and events. The global university system provides diverse experiences across its various campuses, fostering a rich environment for academic and personal growth.

Fees

InternationalAn International Student Fee of $450 (one-time) is assessed. Undergraduate full-time tuition is $33,995 per term. Per-credit hour rates are $2,125. Specific programs like N.U.in Fall Semester Programs, NYC Scholars Program, and London Scholars Program are $33,600 per term. Foundation Year tuition is $20,470 per academic year, and NU Immerse is $25,445. Additional fees include a Student Activity Fee ($180 per year), Student Center Fee ($85 per semester), Student Recreation Fee ($75 per semester), Undergraduate Student Fee ($362.50 per semester), and Northeastern University Student Health Plan ($2,849 annually).

Home—

LivingInformation on living costs is not explicitly provided, but the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) Fee is mandated for California residents or those in a residency program at a rate of $2.50 per $1,000 of institutional charges.

Tuition costs, fees, and standard student budget amounts are subject to annual revision by Northeastern University. Students with adequate health insurance may have the option to waive the Northeastern University Student Health Plan (NUSHP).

Admissions

Online ApplicationRequired

ResumeRequired for most programs

TranscriptsRequired for most programs

RecommendationsRequired for most programs

Personal StatementRequired for most programs

TOEFL iBT100 or higher recommended for undergraduate applicants

IELTS Academic7.0 or higher recommended

Duolingo English Test125 or higher recommended

Rankings

QS World University Rankings 2025384

U.S. News National Universities 202553

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025Top 200 band

U.S. News Best Co-op/Internship ProgramsTop 5 nationally

University scholarships

Merit-based Tuition Scholarships—

Public Interest Law Scholarship (PILS)Full-tuition

HBCU ScholarshipHalf to full-tuition

Health Policy and Law ScholarshipHalf to full-tuition, plus $2,000 co-op stipend

Intellectual Property and Innovation ScholarshipHalf to full-tuition, plus $2,000 co-op stipend

Law, Equity and Race ScholarshipHalf to full-tuition

Federal Worker Support Scholarships—

Accreditation

Northeastern University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc. (NECHE). Its nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on College Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registered Nursing and the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

Typical living cost

€1,420/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Northeastern University · United States

Bachelor of Arts in Theatre

The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre program at Northeastern University offers a comprehensive study of theatre as an interdisciplinary art form. Students engage in collaborative theatre making, combining practical production, design, and performance with academic inquiry and practice-based research. The program emphasizes learning and adapting within a dynamic academic environment, preparing students to create impactful, ethical, and socially responsible work. Core values of the department include generosity, integrity, respect, and rigor. Students will develop skills in generating and communicating knowledge through creative practice research, collaborating effectively, and employing the principles of antiracist theatre. The curriculum aims to equip graduates with the ability to grapple with the cultural, social, and ethical impacts of theatre on communities and to advance social and racial justice through their work.

Northeastern University · United States

Bachelor of Science in Analytics

The Bachelor of Science in Analytics program at Northeastern University equips you with the essential skills to thrive in the data-driven world. You will learn to manage and analyze data, utilize in-demand programming languages like R and Python, and interpret complex information. The program emphasizes developing strong reasoning and argumentation skills to effectively communicate data insights and influence strategic decisions across various industries, including marketing, finance, management, and healthcare. With a focus on experiential learning, world-class faculty, and a strong employer network, you'll be prepared for a successful career in analytics.

Northeastern University · United States

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA)

The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) program at Northeastern University combines management theory with practical application. You'll engage in active learning, problem-driven research, and work with corporate partners. The program aims to foster a global and entrepreneurial mindset while developing your technical, analytical, creative, and strategic thinking skills. You can tailor your academic path through interdisciplinary options like combined majors, concentrations, and minors, both within and outside the business school.

Northeastern University · United States

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering with a concentration in Biochemistry

This combined major allows students to explore their interest in biochemistry while earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. The program integrates the fundamentals of biochemistry with the engineering skills needed for scaling up biochemical processes. Graduates will be well-prepared for the growing biotechnology industry, capable of understanding everything from the chemistry of organisms to the design of systems for producing cells and pharmaceuticals.

Northeastern University · United States

BS Environmental Engineering and Health Sciences

This combined major program offers a Bachelor of Science degree integrating environmental engineering and health sciences. It is designed for students interested in the health sciences who also wish to pursue environmental engineering. The curriculum focuses on the relationship between the environment and human health, aiming to prepare professionals who can develop engineering solutions for environmental and health challenges. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between public health and environmental engineering principles.

Northeastern University · United States

Combined Cybersecurity and Economics

This combined degree program offers a unique interdisciplinary approach, merging core economic principles with a strong foundation in computer science and cybersecurity. You will explore both individual and collective economic behaviors, and learn to apply computing skills to ensure the security and reliability of digital spaces. The curriculum integrates fundamental economic theory with practical programming skills, preparing you for a career at the intersection of these two dynamic fields.

Scholarships

for United States

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Duke University

Karsh International Scholarship Program

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.

University of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)

University of Miami Stamps Scholarship

Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What is Northeastern University's experiential learning model?

Northeastern University is known for its unique experiential learning model, which emphasizes hands-on experience through co-ops, research, and international study. This approach is designed to provide students with real-world skills and opportunities.

How many global campuses does Northeastern University have?

Northeastern University operates a global university system with 14 campuses across the U.S., U.K., and Canada. This extensive network offers students diverse academic programs, co-ops, research, and service opportunities worldwide.

What are the estimated tuition fees for undergraduate students at Northeastern University?

Undergraduate full-time tuition at Northeastern University is $33,995 per term. There is also a one-time International Student Fee of $450 and various other semester and annual fees for activities, student services, and health plans.

What English proficiency tests does Northeastern University accept for international students?

Northeastern University recommends a TOEFL iBT score of 100 or higher for undergraduate applicants. They also accept IELTS Academic with a score of 7.0 or higher, and a Duolingo English Test score of 125 or higher is recommended.

Does Northeastern University offer scholarships for international students?

Yes, Northeastern University offers various merit-based scholarships, such as Merit-based Tuition Scholarships, which are awarded to select admitted applicants based on a variety of achievements. Specific scholarships are also available for certain programs like law.

Last updated 3 July 2026