Northeastern University is widely recognized as a highly selective private institution with undergraduate admissions standards that have become exceptionally competitive over recent years. Driven by a massive surge in national and international applications, the university's acceptance rate has dropped into the high single digits or low teens. Applicants are expected to present near-perfect high school grade point averages, rigorous advanced placement or honors coursework, exceptional extracurricular leadership, and compelling personal statements to stand out among the massive applicant pool vying for a limited number of incoming undergraduate student seats.