College life at Northwestern is a mix of small-town friendliness and big-city student activities. The university is the cultural center of the region with on-campus events such as plays, concerts and lectures. Nearly every academic department has a student organization and the university encourages all students to become involved in many activities. Membership in other professional, religious, political, academic and social clubs or organizations is available. Students can also become members of the Student Government Association, university music and drama groups, and campus media. Northwestern women can enter the Miss Northwestern Pageant, which provides scholarship incentives to the title holder.  The center of activity on campus is the Student Center, which now features a food court, game room and large bookstore.

Intramural athletics allows students of all athletic abilities to participate in team sports such as football, volleyball, basketball and softball. Varsity athletics plays an important role at Northwestern. As a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, the university sponsors athletic competition for men and women in many sports.

The university offers special student services through a Counseling Center, Academic Success Center, Student Health Center, and Career Services.