Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the IMC Full-Time program?

The IMC Full-Time graduate program is five quarters (15 months).

When can I begin the IMC Full-Time program?

The full-time program begins in September and ends in December of the following year.

Is the Medill IMC degree STEM certified?

Yes, Medill IMC is a STEM degree. For eligibility and additional details on the STEM OPT extension for F-1 International Students, please visit Northwestern’s Office of International Student Services. Medill’s CIP code is 09.0702.

Is it preferable to have some work experience before applying?

Work experience is not required. However, it is preferable to have some exposure to your chosen field. This can be accomplished through a combination of coursework, undergraduate activities, internships and/or full-time or part-time work experience.

Does the Admissions Committee favor certain majors?

No. We seek to admit students with a variety of majors. We consider both breadth of academic background and areas of specialization in your undergraduate program, as well as any prior graduate work.

Discover what we look for in prospective IMC graduate students.

Is there a minimum GPA required?

No. However, this is not to say that GPA and test scores are not important. We review applications holistically to see if all elements in the file, taken together, indicate potential to succeed in our program.

Discover what we look for in prospective IMC graduate students.

Is there a minimum GRE or GMAT score required?

No. We review applications holistically and the GRE or GMAT score is just one of several criteria we consider for admission.

What if I haven’t taken the GRE or GMAT?

You will probably receive your unofficial test scores (test-taker copy) before we receive your official scores. These usually reach us around three weeks after you take the test. If you have received your test scores, indicate them in the space provided for self-reported scores in the online application.

If you don't have your scores by the time you apply, email a copy to MedillGraduateAdmissions@northwestern.edu as soon as you receive them. Scores sent this way are unofficial, but they will enable us to start reviewing your file. We cannot complete reviewing a file without test scores.

Official test scores must be sent directly to Medill from ETS or GMAC.

• Medill’s GRE code: 1699
• Medill’s GMAT code: 6WZ-XH-66

Is there a minimum TOEFL or IELTS or Duolingo score required?

No. We review applications holistically and the TOEFL or IELTS or Duolingo score is just one of several criteria we consider for admission.

Does Medill accept transfer students and/or credits?

No. Medill does not accept transfer students to the graduate program. In addition, admitted students are not able to transfer academic credits earned at another university to replace courses at Medill.  In some cases, entering students may be granted a waiver for a course that would substantially replicate prior graduate-level coursework or equivalent professional work experience. However, students granted such waivers must still complete the required number of credits at Medill for their degree program. Waivers do not shorten the time it takes to earn a degree.

If I applied before and was denied admission, may I reapply?

Yes. If you applied to a graduate program at Medill within the past two years, you may reapply by submitting:

• A new essay
• An updated resume
• An additional letter of recommendation from a person who did not previously write one for you
• Any additional transcripts of academic work you completed since you last applied

An interview is also required of all re-applicants.

Does Northwestern provide any housing for graduate students?

The Graduate Housing Office has a graduate-student residence in Evanston called Engelhart Hall. Engelhart is located about four blocks from Fisk Hall and McCormick Foundation Center and offers studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments.

Off-campus housing is available throughout Evanston and Chicago. Graduate students seeking to live off campus are responsible for arranging their own housing. For more information, visit the Northwestern off-campus housing webpage.

Whom do I talk to about receiving accommodations?

AccessibleNU serves, supports and empowers Northwestern students with disabilities by ensuring equal access to fully participate in academic programming and all other facets of university life.