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Princeton University

Overview

Princeton University

Princeton University, a prestigious Ivy League research institution, is renowned for its rigorous academic standards, distinguished faculty, and historic campus. With a reputation for excellence that spans more than two centuries, Princeton is consistently ranked among the top universities globally. The university offers its students a personalized educational experience; its intimate size of around 5,600 undergraduates fosters close-knit interactions and individual mentorship opportunities. For all these reasons, admission to Princeton is extremely competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 6%, which reflects its status as a coveted destination for some of the brightest young minds in the United States and worldwide.

One of the pathways through a a massive stone building on the Princeton campus.

Spark Admissions’ college consulting results are 8X the national average for Ivy League admissions and 6X the national average for many top 50 colleges.

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Princeton University Academics

Academics at Princeton University are characterized by a commitment to excellence, intellectual rigor, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The university offers a diverse array of undergraduate programs across various fields, while its distinguished faculty, all of whom are leading experts and researchers in their respective disciplines, provide students with exceptional mentorship and learning opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and independent research, culminating in a senior thesis or capstone project for most undergraduate programs. Furthermore, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, Princeton ensures that undergraduates receive personalized attention and fosters a vibrant academic community where students are encouraged to pursue their intellectual passions and engage in innovative scholarship.

The student/faculty ratio at Princeton University is 5:1 and 74% of classes have 20 students or fewer.

Princeton’s Undergraduate Colleges:

  • The School of Arts and Sciences
  • The School of Engineering and Applied Science
  • The Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs
  • The School of Architecture

Popular Majors at Princeton:

  • Economics
  • Computer Science
  • Public Policy
  • Molecular Biology
  • History
  • Politics
  • Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Notable or Distinct Majors at Princeton:

  • Architecture
  • Art and Archeology
  • Operations Research and Financial Engineering

Unique Academic Opportunities at Princeton:

  • The Values and Public Life (VPL) minor program at Princeton University is an interdisciplinary initiative that examines ethical and moral dimensions of public issues, integrating philosophical inquiry with practical engagement in public life. VPL aims to equip students with the critical thinking skills and ethical frameworks necessary to address complex societal challenges.
  • Princeton’s research programs span a wide range of disciplines, fostering innovative and interdisciplinary research that addresses global challenges, advances scientific knowledge, and explores fundamental questions in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
  • The LENS (Learning and Education through Service) program at Princeton offers students guaranteed paid internships that enable them to engage in meaningful service work, providing hands-on experience while addressing societal issues and contributing to the public good.

Princeton University Admissions

Princeton Application Details:

  • Princeton does not currently require applicants to submit standardized test scores. According to recent reports, the 75th percentile SAT score of an admitted student was 1580, and the 75th percentile composite ACT score was 35.
  • The Common Application is accepted at Princeton University.
  • A personal statement or personal essay is part of the Common App.
  • Princeton also requires applicants to submit a graded written paper alongside their application.
  • Princeton requires students to respond to one additional academic prompt and three additional supplemental questions.
  • Students must submit a counselor recommendation, mid-year report, and school report.
  • First-year applicants must submit two teacher recommendations with their application.

Princeton Application Deadlines

Early Decision
Nov 1
Regular Decision
Jan 1
Fall Transfer
Mar 1

Class Profile

Princeton Demographics (2023-2024):

  • Asian students: 24%
  • Black Students: 8%
  • Hispanic Students: 10%
  • White students: 38%
  • International students: 12%
  • First-generation college students: 17%
  • 50% women; 50% men

Life in Princeton

The picturesque town of Princeton offers undergraduates a blend of academic intensity and vibrant community living. Amid the town’s historic charm and tree-lined streets, undergraduates enjoy access to a variety of cultural and recreational activities, from exploring the Princeton University Art Museum and attending performances at McCarter Theatre to strolling through the serene paths of the university’s campus and nearby parks. Princeton’s bustling downtown area also features a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops that cater to college students’ needs and tastes. With its combination of historical academic prestige and lively town life, Princeton provides a unique and enriching setting for undergraduate students.

  • Princeton is accessible to other major surrounding cities. Students can get to both Philadelphia and NYC in around an hour. This allows students to experience the small-town campus environment without feeling stuck or isolated.
  • Free transit shuttles connect students with larger grocery stores and retail centers in and around Princeton, from Nassau Street to Prospect Ave and Palmer Square.
  • Outdoor activities are plentiful. Consider relaxing at Lake Carnegie, taking a stroll through Princeton Battlefield State Park, or bike riding along the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park.
  • Visit the Princeton Battlefield, Einstein’s House, and other historical landmarks.
  • Browse and buy vinyl records, CDs, and DVDs at the iconic Princeton Record Exchange.

Princeton University Campus Life:

Campus life at Princeton University for undergraduates is vibrant and immersive, with a strong sense of community and a wide array of opportunities for personal and academic growth. The student body comprises approximately 64% undergraduates and 36% graduate students, creating a dynamic environment where undergraduate students play a central role. The residential college system fosters close-knit communities, providing students with support networks and a sense of belonging. Numerous student organizations, ranging from academic clubs to performing arts groups and athletic teams, offer ample opportunities for involvement and leadership, while campus traditions, such as the annual Lawnparties, the storied Princeton P-rade, and the festive Communiversity, also enrich the undergraduate experience. With access to world-class research facilities, resources, and faculty, Princeton students enjoy a well-rounded and engaging campus life that supports both their academic pursuits and extracurricular interests.

Princeton Social Activities:

  • The eating clubs at Princeton University are unique social dining halls that play a central role in undergraduate life. With no Greek organizations, these clubs serve as both dining halls and social hubs, providing meals, social events, and a sense of community. Each club has its own distinct character and traditions, and membership typically begins in junior year.
  • The beaches of the Jersey Shore and Pennsylvania’s ski mountains are just a short road trip away from campus!
  • With more than 500 student-run clubs, there is no doubt that you will find something that aligns with your own interests. Some notable ones include the Princeton Entrepreneurship Club, the University Press Club, and the Princeton Triangle club—the oldest touring collegiate musical-comedy troupe in the country.
  • If you’re hoping to join a casual athletic group at this D1 university, look no further than the intramural sport offerings. From badminton to sand volleyball, you will be sure to find a fun way to get moving and make long-lasting friendships.
  • Princeton has one of the most reputable D1 athletic programs in the Ivy League. Nearly 18% of undergraduates partake in a varsity sport.

Princeton Traditions:

  • The Pre-rade: A procession for incoming freshmen, welcoming them into the Princeton community and initiating them into school traditions.
  • Bonfire: A celebratory bonfire on Cannon Green, traditionally held when Princeton’s football team beats both Harvard and Yale in the same season.
  • Lawnparties: A biannual event featuring live music, food, and festivities on the lawns of the eating clubs.
  • Cane Spree: A spirited competition between freshmen and sophomores, involving a series of athletic contests.

Princeton University Housing and Dorms:

First and second year undergraduate students at Princeton are required to live on campus.

  • 96% of all undergraduates live on campus.
  • Each Residential College has a faculty head of college, faculty fellows, dean, assistant dean, student mentors, and a director of student life.
  • Some single rooms are available, typically only for upperclassmen.

Princeton University Cost of Attendance

This estimate takes into account tuition and fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, and personal expenses for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Total tuition costs

$86,700
  • Princeton offers multiple opportunities to receive financial aid assistance including grants, work study programs, loans, and outside scholarships.

Get Into Princeton University with Spark Admissions

If Princeton University is your dream college, know that strategic planning during high school and starting early on college preparation can significantly impact your chances of success. Whether you need assistance in developing a compelling academic profile or determining how to distinguish yourself as a competitive applicant, Spark Admissions is here to support you. Our team of full-time college admissions consultants understands the nuances of the Princeton admissions process, and we’re dedicated to helping you turn your aspirations into reality. Reach out today to schedule a complimentary initial consultation with one of our expert admissions counselors, and learn more about how we can help demystify the college admissions and college application experience.

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