Note: This timeline is for students starting in the summer or fall terms. Starting in the spring? Download the spring checklist
You will receive a notification regarding your admission status and automatic scholarship awards about two weeks after receiving all materials. For assistance, visit CatPAWS or contact us at 800.633.1175. Before visiting CatPAWS, you must set up your Northwest email account.
Apply for FAFSA at studentaid.gov/fafsa beginning Dec. 1. (Northwest code: 002496)
Complete your housing application beginning Nov. 1. in CatPAWS
OR
If applicable, complete and send back the Commuting to Northwest card located inside the front cover of the Acceptance booklet (notarization is not required).
Receive a financial aid offer for your review and acceptance. Awards are mailed beginning mid-Nov. *For 2024, the anticipated date is late April/early May.
In December, create your My College Roomie profile to find your ideal roommate.
In February, choose your roommate in My College Roomie.
Complete the Standard Scholarship Application to apply for major-specific awards. The application is available in CatPAWS and may be accessed from Sept. 1 until the Feb. 1 deadline.
Please note, only for the 2024-25 aid year, this submission deadline is being extended to April 1, 2024.
Complete the Health History Form and return it to Wellness Services at least 30 days before classes begin.
Respond to an invitation to SOAR (Summer Orientation, Advisement and Registration) for freshmen or New Student Orientation for transfer and returning students. Invitations are mailed in early March.
Check your Northwest email frequently. Here's how to set up your Northwest email account.
Review and accept financial aid in CatPAWS.
Attend a one-day SOAR or New Student Orientation program in June or receive your fall course schedule and meet with an academic advisor. Submit your Health History Form to Wellness Services.
Submit final high school and dual credit transcripts to Northwest's Office of Admissions by Aug. 15.
Receive your billing statement in July. If applicable, sign up for an installment plan. The first quarterly installment or full payment is due Aug. 15.
Before classes begin, contact your roommate. Get to know each other and discuss what you’ll bring to Northwest!
Beginning Aug. 1, register your car, purchase a parking permit and sign the notebook contract in CatPAWS.
Complete enrollment verification which becomes available via CatPAWS by the first day of Advantage.
Attend Advantage in August, Aug. 22-25. More information will be mailed in late July.
Move into your residence hall Thursday, Aug. 22, before classes begin.
Documentation of your meningitis shot must be submitted to Wellness Services. You will not be allowed to move into your room unless your paperwork is on file.