Princeton University was founded in 1746. It’s a top Ivy League school with a very low acceptance rate of 4.5%. The university offers Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) and Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E.) degrees. With 37 majors and over 50 minors or certificate programs, there’s a lot to choose from.
Princeton looks at each applicant’s file in a detailed way. They consider many factors without giving more weight to any one thing.
Key Takeaways
- Princeton University has strict academic standards, including specific high school course requirements.
- The university suggests taking honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and dual-enrollment courses to challenge oneself.
- Princeton recognizes previous advanced or college-level work through its AP policy.
- The university welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds, including international students, undocumented and DACA students, and home-schooled students.
- Princeton’s admission process involves a thorough review of each applicant’s talents, achievements, and potential to contribute to the university community.
Academic Requirements and Course Prerequisites
Princeton University sets high standards for its students. They need a strong high school background. This includes four years of English, math, and a foreign language. They also need two years of science and history.
It’s best if students take honors, AP, or IB classes. These show they’re ready for Princeton’s tough courses.
Required Core Subjects
- 4 years of English
- 4 years of mathematics (including calculus for engineering applicants)
- 4 years of one foreign language
- At least 2 years of laboratory science (physics and chemistry for engineering applicants)
- At least 2 years of history
Advanced Placement and Honors Courses
Princeton looks for students who push themselves. Taking AP or IB classes shows they’re up for a challenge. It also gets them ready for Princeton’s tough classes.
Recommended Electives
Princeton also values the arts. Students should explore their creative side. This can be through visual or performing arts in their high school studies.
| Course Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| English | 4 years |
| Mathematics | 4 years (including calculus for engineering applicants) |
| Foreign Language | 4 years of one language |
| Laboratory Science | At least 2 years (physics and chemistry for engineering applicants) |
| History | At least 2 years |
| Electives | Visual or performing arts |
GPA and Test Score Requirements
Getting into Princeton University is tough, with only a 4.5% acceptance rate. Students need to show top-notch grades to stand a chance.
The average GPA for Princeton students is 3.94. This shows how important it is to have high grades. A GPA of 3.94 or higher is key to being competitive.
Princeton also looks closely at standardized test scores. The average SAT score is 1518 out of 1600. The 25th percentile is 1510, and the 75th percentile is 1560. For the ACT, the average score is 34, with a 25th percentile of 34 and a 75th percentile of 35.
Princeton uses a “highest section” policy for the SAT. This means applicants can send their best scores from different test dates. But for the ACT, they only consider the highest score from one sitting.
To have a good shot at Princeton, aim for a GPA of 3.94 or higher. Also, aim for an SAT score of 1560 or higher. Meeting these standards, along with a strong application, boosts your chances of getting in.
“Achieving a GPA of 3.94 and an SAT score of 1560 or higher is crucial for prospective Princeton applicants. These metrics demonstrate the level of academic excellence required to be a competitive candidate.”
Princeton University Application Components
Applying to Princeton University is a detailed process. You need to submit various materials through the Common Application or Coalition Application. Each part of the application helps the admissions team understand your qualifications and how you’ll contribute to the university.
Required Application Materials
Here are the materials you must submit:
- Completed Common Application or Coalition Application, including Princeton-specific questions
- Official high school transcript
- School report completed by your high school counselor
- Two teacher recommendations
- A graded written paper from an academic course
Optional Application Elements
Princeton also lets you submit optional components:
- Arts supplement (for applicants with exceptional talent in the arts)
- Alumni interview (if available in your local area)
Recommendation Letters and School Reports
Recommendation letters and school reports are key. You need two academic recommendations, with at least one from a college instructor. The school report gives insights into your academic performance and potential.
The application fee is $70, but fee waivers are available for some. You must also send a midyear school report once your senior year grades are in.
Standardized Testing Policies
Princeton University has a new policy for 2024 and 2025. Students can decide if they want to send in their SAT or ACT scores. There’s no minimum score needed to get in.
Students can take the SAT or ACT by October for early action. For regular decision, they should take it by December. Princeton suggests sending all test scores. The SAT code is 2672, and the ACT code is 2588.
Princeton doesn’t need SAT Subject Tests, but students can send them if they want. They also recommend reporting AP or IB scores.
For students whose first language isn’t English, they need to send English tests. This includes TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic. This rule doesn’t apply if they’ve been in an English school for three years.
| Standardized Test | Deadline for Fall 2024 and 2025 Admission Cycles |
|---|---|
| SAT | October for early action, December for regular decision |
| ACT | October for early action, December for regular decision |
| TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic | No specific deadline, but recommended to be submitted by application deadline |
Princeton doesn’t accept the Duolingo English Test for 2024 and 2025. The university wants to make sure everyone has a fair chance. This includes all applicants, no matter their background or where they’re from.
International Student Requirements and Language Proficiency
At Princeton University, international students go through the same admission process as U.S. students. But, they must meet certain requirements to show they’re qualified.
English Language Testing Requirements
For students whose first language isn’t English, speaking English well is key. Princeton accepts TOEFL, IELTS Academic, or PTE Academic scores. This is unless they’ve had a lot of English education before.
International Academic Credentials
Princeton looks at international students’ grades in the context of their country’s education system. They check both internal grades and marks from external exams. This helps them see how well the student has done academically.
Visa and Documentation
Once admitted, international students get help from Princeton’s Davis International Center. They guide them on visa and documentation needs for studying in the U.S. The university helps students get the right visas and paperwork.
Princeton offers full financial aid to all admitted international students. This aid is based on need, just like for U.S. students. The university is committed to giving equal chances to all, no matter their financial situation.
Princeton University, founded in 1746 as the College of New Jersey and renamed in 1896, is one of the foremost research universities and a leading institution of higher learning in the United States, located in the town of Princeton, New Jersey. Renowned for its academic standards and a commitment to “Princeton in the Nation’s Service and the Service of Humanity,” Princeton offers exceptional educational opportunities through its seven residential colleges, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), School of Architecture, and School of Public and International Affairs. Home to the Princeton Tigers, iconic landmarks like FitzRandolph Gate, and prestigious alumni including James Madison, Woodrow Wilson, Richard Feynman, and Pete Conrad, Princeton’s rich history intertwines with national milestones such as hosting the Continental Congress in 1783. The campus, designed by notable architects like Frank Gehry, supports vibrant student organizations, eating clubs, and athletic programs. With a generous financial aid system ensuring affordability for students receiving aid, Princeton remains a coeducational Ivy League institution of higher education with Nobel laureates and National Medal of Science recipients among its faculty, making it a beacon for academic and cultural excellence between New York City and Philadelphia.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| English Language Proficiency | TOEFL, IELTS Academic, or PTE Academic scores required, unless exempted |
| International Academic Credentials | Evaluation of internal grades, external exam marks, or a combination |
| Visa and Documentation | Guidance and support from Princeton’s Davis International Center |
| Financial Aid | Full need-based financial aid available, admission process is need-blind |
“More than 40 percent of Graduate School students at Princeton University are citizens of other countries.”
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Conclusion
Princeton University’s admission process is very competitive. This shows the school’s dedication to excellence and a diverse student body. To get in, students need to show top grades, advanced courses, and strong test scores.
Even though only 5.5% get in, Princeton wants to help talented students from all walks of life. Its financial aid helps about 60% of students, making it affordable. This way, cost doesn’t stop anyone from attending.
Applying to Princeton is a big decision for students. They should look into the campus, research, and courses to see if it fits their goals. By showing their best in academics and personal growth, students can join Princeton’s lively and welcoming community.
FAQs
Q: What are the admission requirements for Princeton University?
A: Princeton University requires applicants to submit standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), high school transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal essay. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to extracurricular activities.
Q: How does Princeton University’s ranking compare to other institutions?
A: Princeton consistently ranks among the top universities in the U.S. according to university rankings. For 2024, it is often listed as one of the best colleges for undergraduate education, reflecting its strong academic programs and faculty.
Q: What is the enrollment process for undergraduate students at Princeton?
A: The enrollment process involves submitting an application through the Common Application or the Coalition Application, along with required documents such as transcripts and recommendations. Princeton reviews applications holistically, considering academic achievements and personal qualities.
Q: What is campus life like at Princeton University?
A: Campus life at Princeton is vibrant and diverse. Students can participate in various activities, including eating clubs, athletics, and cultural events. The university’s commitment to “Princeton in the nation’s service” encourages students to engage with the community and develop leadership skills.
Q: How does Princeton support its students financially?
A: Princeton offers a robust financial aid program that meets 100% of demonstrated need without requiring loans. The financial aid policy ensures that students from all backgrounds can afford to attend Princeton, making it accessible to a wider range of applicants.
Q: What notable alumni have come from Princeton University?
A: Princeton has a long list of notable alumni, including Michelle Obama and Brooke Shields. Many graduates have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, science, and the arts, further enhancing the university’s reputation.
Q: What academic programs are available at Princeton University?
A: Princeton offers a variety of academic programs across its colleges, including the School of Engineering and Applied Science, the School of Architecture, and the School of Public and International Affairs. Students can choose from numerous majors and interdisciplinary studies.
Q: Is Princeton University involved in research initiatives?
A: Yes, Princeton is home to several research initiatives, including the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), which focuses on plasma physics and fusion energy research. This commitment to research enhances the educational experience for undergraduate students.
Q: What is the significance of Nassau Hall at Princeton University?
A: Nassau Hall is one of the most historic buildings on campus, serving as the administrative center of the university. It symbolizes Princeton’s rich history, having been an important site since the university’s founding in 1746 and its renaming in 1896.
Source Links
- https://admission.princeton.edu/apply/before-you-apply
- https://admission.princeton.edu/apply/application-checklist
- https://ua.princeton.edu/policies-resources/general-education-requirements
- https://spia.princeton.edu/undergraduate-program/curriculum-requirements
- https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/Princeton-admission-requirements
- https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/Princeton-sat-scores-GPA