Admissions
MSIT considers each application holistically. Applicants are evaluated not only for academic ability but for career goals and overall “fit” for this unique professional program.
Entry is granted for fall quarter only, and applications are accepted as early as September 1 of the year prior to the desired start date. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis while space remains in the program.
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Application Deadlines
| Round | Application Due |
|---|---|
| Round 1 | June 15 |
| Round 2 | August 1 |
| Round | Application Due |
|---|---|
| Round 1 | March 1 |
| Round 2 | June 15 |
Applications received after Round 2 will be considered on a space-available basis.
Admissions Requirements
Educational Background
Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants with eligible three-year degrees from foreign institutions will also be considered. Work experience requirements vary based on the undergraduate major.
While we do not set a minimum grade point average, our most successful applicants present a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher.
Work Experience
MSIT students bring a variety of professional experiences to the classroom, which allows students to put principles and strategies learned in class to immediate use and contribute to class discussion with insights gained from their time in the field. Applicants should demonstrate an appropriate amount of professional IT experience based on their undergraduate major.
| Degree Type | Minimum Relevant Work Experience |
|---|---|
| Technical Undergraduate Degree | 1-2 years |
| Non-Technical Undergraduate Degree | 3 or more years |
Transcripts
At the time of application, applicants must submit an unofficial academic transcript from each college or university they have attended. If you are offered admission and decide to enroll, you will be required to submit an official copy of those transcript(s).
Reference Letters
At least two letters of reference from recommenders who can attest to your academic and/or professional abilities (i.e. current or former supervisor(s), clients or customers, professors, etc.)
Test Scores
GRE and GMAT: Not required, though applicants may choose to submit GRE or GMAT scores. The MSIT ETS GRE code is 1606; the MSIT GMAT code is 6WZ-TL-04.
TOEFL or IELTS: All international applicants are required to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. This requirement can be waived if undergraduate coursework was taught in English. The MSIT program requires a minimum TOEFL score of 90 or a minimum IELTS score of 7. The MSIT ETS TOEFL code is 7456.
Northwestern University does not make decisions related to admissions, including but not limited to financial aid and scholarships, based upon any category protected by the law. The University is committed to complying with all applicable laws. The University believes different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds are critical to building a dynamic student body, and as such encourages all qualified applicants to apply.

