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International Admissions

Gain New Perspectives & Enhance Your Leadership Capabilities

Contribute your perspective to your cohort and gain new skills to advance your career.

International Admissions Requirements

Building Your International Application for the MSC

Communication crosses all borders. Bring your perspective to Northwestern’s MSC degree program and gain new leadership skills to advance your career. The Custom Leadership Program offers a full-time, in-person and on-campus option for international students.

Resume

Outline your professional experiences, skills and education history. Include any certificates, responsibilities or volunteer work you believe is relevant.

Academic Transcripts

Upload unofficial transcripts for admissions purposes. You will be required to provide official transcripts to enroll.

If you earned your degree outside of the US, you must submit all transcripts to ECE or WES for a course-by-course verification prior to submitting your application.

Language Test

Submit your score, completed within the past two years. If you have completed all four years in the U.S., you do not need to submit a language test. Otherwise, we highly recommend you submit a language test to strengthen your chances of admission.

  • TOEFL Overall Score: 100+
  • TOEFL Speaking Score: 26+

    MSC Program TOEFL Code: 6162

  • IELTS Overall Band Score: 7.5

     

  • Duolingo Overall Score: 140
References

Submit the names and contact details of two individuals who will recommend you to the program, and the MSC will contact them with a form to complete. 

Essay

Tell the Admissions Committee why you’re applying to the Northwestern MSC and the contribution you will make to the rest of your cohort. 

Interview

Interview in-person or virtually with a member of the Admissions Committee after submitting your application. 

International Admissions Deadlines

Application Deadlines Give You Flexibility

Northwestern’s MSC program is competitive and space in the MSC cohorts may fill up. As such, we encourage you to apply as early as possible.
October 12, 2022
December 9, 2022
February 15, 2023

International Tuition & Cost of Attendance

Northwestern MSC 2022-2023 Tuition

Earn a degree from one of the United States’ most highly-regarded universities and launch a new era for your career and future.

$71,775

International Student Estimated Cost
International Tuition & Fees

Tuition includes 4 quarters of instruction and course materials. Students must provide their own laptops.

Billing Structure

You’re billed per credit unit at the beginning of each quarter with payment due before the start of classes. You enroll in a minimum of 3 credit units each term, with exception to the final term of study, as per U.S. student visa (F1) guidelines.

International Office of Northwestern University

The Office of International Student and Scholar Services provides advising services and supportive programs to Northwestern’s international students and scholars.

Guide for College Financial Aid

Financial aid helps students and their families pay for college. It can cover a range of educational expenses, like tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and transportation.

International Student Funding

Funding Your MSC Degree

While international students are ineligible for U.S. sponsored federal loans, there are many resources available.

Note: not all lenders offer loan programs for international students. Often lenders require a creditworthy cosigner who is a citizen or Permanent Resident of the United States.

MSC Application Essay

How to Craft Your Application Essay

Your essay is a critical component of your overall application.

The Essay Prompt:

Why are you applying specifically to the MSC Program at Northwestern University and what unique value do you hope to add to the MSC experience of your classmates?

You also have the opportunity to write an additional essay that includes information you feel may not be adequately addressed through the other application materials.

Play Video

Alumni Naazish YarKhan discuss the application essay.

interview-msc-program

MSC Application Interview

What to Expect During the Admissions Interview

Relax and converse with a member of the MSC Admissions Committee and tell us about yourself — your story, experiences and philosophies.

The Admissions Interview is meant to help us delve into who you are and why you’re applying to the program. At the same time, it’s a chance for you to get to know us and ask any questions you have.

International Requirements & Visas

Post-Acceptance Requirements

If you are accepted into Northwestern’s Master of Science in Communication program, there are a few additional requirements you will need to fulfill.

Proof of Funding

If accepted, you will be required to provide documentation that you have funding for tuition, housing, and living expenses prior to beginning the program.

Health Care Enrollment

Once matriculated, you will need to purchase health insurance through Northwestern’s vendor, Aetna Student Health. We’ll give you specific details once you are admitted to the program.

Visa Requirements

If you do not require immigration sponsorship from the University (your immigration status is sponsored by an employer or spouse), you are responsible for knowing the requirements of your visa.

The MSC Student Experience

Experience Chicago and a Community Centered on Learning

Located just north of Chicago in Evanston, Illinois, the School of Communication offers access to academic lectures, artistic performances, local food, sports, and more.
Housing

Contact the university’s Department of Graduate and Off Campus Housing, which serves to support graduate students seeking housing and learn more about accommodations and policies.

Campus Life

Join a community of bright minds and explore big questions in student clubs, seminars, guest lectures, and local performances — all within minutes of campus.

Things To Do

Gather with your cohort at local restaurants, coffeehouses, shops, and beaches and experience the college town of Evanston — or head downtown and explore the global city of Chicago.

Real Stories From Our International Alumni

Learn about the MSC program experience directly from our international students.

Connect with Students from Around the World in the MSC

Take the next step in your career. Earn your Masters to open new doors.