Answers for the Curious You
Going to college comes with a lot of unknowns. So we’ve put together a short FAQ to help guide you.
Still have questions? Reach out to us anytime at admissions@nwmissouri.edu or 660.562.1148. We’re here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is college worth it?
Absolutely. We have data to prove it. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with a bachelor’s degree earn nearly twice the weekly income as those without. Plus, 95% of Northwest graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months of earning their degree. Here, you'll have the opportunities to explore any career path, graduate with connections across our 80,000+ alumni network and gain experiences that will shape who you become.
Why Northwest over other colleges?
Simply put, we support every side of you. From academics to student life, from profession-based learning to financial aid, Northwest is where you can get a total university experience and become the person you want to be.
How can students “be every you” at Northwest?
We really just want you to be yourself. And because every person has many sides, we invite you to nurture each one through profession-based learning in 200+ programs, personal exploration in 150+ student organizations and endless opportunities for growth.
What’s it like in Maryville?
In a word, like home. As a town of 12,000 residents with local charm, scenic architecture and outdoor recreation, our location has everything you want in a college town and nothing you don’t.
What’s the application process like?
It’s easy and quick! You can complete your application online in about 10 minutes. Plus, there's no deadline thanks to our rolling admission, though we encourage you to apply early to get first dibs on scholarships and other opportunities.
What happens after I apply?
Once you’re admitted, you'll need to secure housing, sign up for SOAR (orientation, advisement and registration) and finalize your financial aid. For a detailed, month-by-month enrollment timeline for first-year students, reach out to us at admissions@nwmissouri.edu.
Can I work as a student?
Yes, you can! Many of our students successfully balance academics with working on campus. We have nearly 1,200 student employment positions across almost every department. You could find work in areas like University Marketing & Communications, Wellness Services, the University Police Department or even as a tutor or desk assistant, all while building critical career skills.
What’s housing like?
On-campus housing at Northwest offers a variety of options to fit your needs. We have traditional double-occupancy rooms but also specialty options like Living Learning Communities (LLCs) in Agricultural Sciences and Elementary Education, where you live with students in your major. We even offer Reduced-Cost Housing (for Pell-eligible students in Millikan Hall) and Pet-Friendly Housing in Forest Village Apartments. For details and prices for all of our housing options, reach out to us at reslife@nwmissouri.edu.
Ready to be a Bearcat?

