International Admissions
The Northwest School (NWS) is a middle and high school with a student population of about 450 students. Located in downtown Seattle, The Northwest School offers a unique college preparatory experience, thriving arts and athletic programs, and a friendly and supportive environment. Graduates of The Northwest School attend some of the top universities in the nation and overseas. The school has a national reputation as a vibrant intellectual community and has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. The Northwest School is the only school in Seattle with a coeducational international boarding program. Its great location allows international students to not only gain an excellent education, but to also experience many aspects of American culture and life.
The Northwest School campus is anchored in the historic Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle, one of the most beautiful American cities and home to Microsoft, Starbucks, Boeing, Amazon, Expedia, Costco, and many other world renowned companies.
The city has a friendly and highly educated population, world leading universities, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and top athletic teams.
The school’s urban campus is surrounded by many art studios, museums, concert halls and theaters.
The campus is just a few minutes’ walk from the shore of the Pacific Ocean, famous Pike Place Market, the first Starbucks coffee shop, the Paramount Theater, the Pacific Science Center, the Space Needle and many other cultural landmarks and recreational activities that offer students ample opportunity to learn and enjoy themselves while studying in the U.S.
Northwest School Domestic Viewbook 2020-21
Northwest School International Viewbook
International Admissions
Admission to The Northwest School is competitive, and is not dependent on one single factor. A committee comprised of faculty and administrators considers the following sources of information: the application, academic records, teacher evaluations, personal recommendations, test scores (DET, TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP-SLATE, or EIKEN), school visit/interview, and a student’s talent, character, and leadership qualities.
The first round of admissions deadline is the second week of January. The second round of admissions deadline is the first week of February. After February, international applications are accepted on a rolling basis depending on space availability in school and in the dormitory.
All international students applying to The Northwest School must meet one of the following minimum English language proficiency requirements according to the grade to which they are applying (see table below):
| DET (preferred) | TOEFL Jr | TOEFL | IELTS | iTEP-SLATE | EIKEN | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 9 (ELL) | 80 - 89 | 750-800 | iBT 50 | 4.0-4.5 | 3.5 | Grade 3 |
| Grade 10 (ELL) | 90 - 99 | Not accepted | iBT 60 | 5.0 | 4.5 | Grade 2 A |
| Grade 11 (ELL - Transitional) | 100 - 109 | Not accepted | iBT 80 | 6.0 | 5.5 | Grade Pre-1 |
| Grade 12 | 110 -115 | Not accepted | iBT 90 | 6.5 | 6.0 - 7.0 | Grade 1 |
| Grade 9-12 (non-ELL) | 110 -115 | Not accepted | iBT 90 | 6.5 | 6.0 - 7.0 | Grade 1 |