About Princeton University
The sticker price reaches $80,140, but Princeton's financial aid transforms affordability. Students from families earning under $100,000 typically pay less than $10,000 annually, with the average net price just $10,555. Graduates earn a median of $110,066 ten years after graduation, while typical debt sits at only $10,320. Monthly loan payments average $109, making Princeton one of the better financial investments in higher education.
Princeton's 5:1 student-faculty ratio means small classes and close mentorship. Nearly all students live on campus in the residential college system that shapes social life. The Tigers compete in 32 Division I sports as part of the Ivy League. With a 97% graduation rate and 91% employment rate, Princeton delivers on its promise of top education.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 5:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 84.8%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 97.3%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 97.1%
- Retention Rate
- 97.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $110,066
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral University (R1)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $103,078 |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $103,078 |
| Chemistry. | Doctoral | $76,460 |
| Public Policy Analysis. | Master | $75,518 |
| Public Policy Analysis. | Bachelor | $62,012 |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Bachelor | $47,260 |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $47,260 |
| Sociology. | Bachelor | $44,942 |
| History. | Bachelor | $43,798 |
| Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. | Bachelor | $37,568 |
Campus Life
New Jersey winters require heavy coats and boots, while spring brings perfect weather for studying on the lawn. The 5:1 student-faculty ratio means small seminars are common, and professors actually teach undergraduates instead of graduate students. Campus traditions run deep here, from the P-rade reunion parade to throwing toast at hockey games. With 32 varsity sports and 1,047 total athletes, orange and black Tigers gear is everywhere. Students split time between the library stacks, pickup frisbee games, and late-night conversations in residential colleges that house 100-120 students each.
- Setting
- City-Small
- Housing Capacity
- 5,526 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1746
Campus Safety (2023)
72 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 36 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Burglary | 8 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Rape | 6 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 4 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Stalking | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 21°–40°F
- July Avg
- 63°–86°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 47.5"
- Annual Snowfall
- 23.7"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 49.2%
- Women
- 50.8%
- White
- 36.0%
- Black
- 8.6%
- Hispanic
- 9.8%
- Asian
- 23.7%
- In-State Students
- 17.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 18.7%
Location
- Address
- Princeton, New Jersey 08544-0070
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $110,066
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $113,450
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $73,600
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 86.4%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $109/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $10,320
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Princeton University?
Princeton accepts just 5.70% of applicants, making it one of the most selective universities in America. Admitted students typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT, with an average of 1535. The university's rigorous admissions process reflects its commitment to academic excellence and small class sizes.
How much does Princeton University cost after financial aid?
While tuition costs $59,710, the average net price students actually pay is only $10,555 due to generous financial aid. Families earning under $30,000 pay an average of just $2,518 per year. Princeton's need-blind admissions policy ensures financial circumstances don't affect admission decisions.
What makes Princeton University's academics unique?
Princeton maintains a 5:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring intimate classroom experiences rarely found at major research universities. The university is famous for having no graduate students teach undergraduate courses, meaning professors handle all instruction. This approach has shaped countless leaders, from presidents like Woodrow Wilson to entrepreneurs like Jeff Bezos.
What are career outcomes like for Princeton University graduates?
Princeton graduates earn a median salary of $110,066 ten years after graduation, reflecting the university's strong alumni network and strong reputation. The employment rate reaches 91.0%, with graduates pursuing everything from Wall Street careers to public service. With 97.1% graduating within six years, Princeton students overwhelmingly complete their degrees successfully.
Where is Princeton University located and what is campus life like?
Princeton sits in the small city of Princeton, New Jersey, providing a classic collegiate atmosphere with 5,526 on-campus housing spaces for 5,579 total students. The campus houses 1,047 student-athletes competing in 32 varsity sports as the Tigers in NCAA Division I. The intimate setting fosters the close-knit community Princeton is known for among top universities.
Does Princeton University offer athletic scholarships?
Princeton offers $0 in athletic scholarships, following Ivy League policy that prohibits athletic-based financial aid. Instead, the university provides need-based aid to 18.72% of students, with an average institutional grant of $59,792. This approach ensures student-athletes are admitted for academic merit while still receiving substantial financial support based on family income.
