The Northwest School – Next Steps: Class of 2026

As Northwest's Class of 2026 prepares to commence on their next journey, we are taking a few moments to recognize their journey, accomplishments, and impact.

We're also excited to see where they are headed next.

Members of the Class of 2026 applied to 153 unique four-year colleges, and are headed to headed to 51 different destinations this fall! We celebrate the tremendous talent and diversity of this class, as reflected in their final college choices.

While some future graduates are still to decide on an intended major or area of study, the majority of our Class of '26 knows that they plan to major in either the Humanities and Social Sciences (22%) and the Natural & Physical Sciences (27%). This trend is almost on par with their predecessors in the Class of '25, in which 28% and 25% of students opted for these two areas of study, respectively.

Our small student-to-counselor ratio and diversified programming means students have multiple layers of support - such as a primary counselor, alternate counselor, and writing coach - and varied ways to engage, from 1-1 meetings and classes to webinars and written materials.
– Erin Miller, Director of College Counseling & Upper School Director

The Northwest School's dedicated College Counseling team works closely with Upper School students to help them find the right college fit and navigate the application process.

As early as Grade 10, students can start learning about college counseling and begin taking practice admissions exams.

By Grade 11, college counselors are working closely with students to help them understand higher ed options, establish goals, take the PSAT practice admissions exam, attend college fairs and meet college admissions representatives, and much more. Students also take a College Counseling class to learn more college research, interview prep, and essays.

Together, these resources and faculty support help position students for success and the next exciting phase of their education journey!