Overview
Princeton University is a extremely selective private four-year institution in Princeton, New Jersey. The school accepts 5.7% of applicants and enrolls 5,579 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 5.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,535
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,490–1,580
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 34
- Total Enrollment
- 5,579
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Princeton's admissions committee wants to see intellectual independence beyond stellar grades and test scores. Your application should demonstrate how you think originally and pursue ideas that genuinely fascinate you, not just activities that look impressive on paper.
Unlike Harvard or Yale, Princeton requires all applicants to write about a person who has influenced them, giving admissions officers insight into your values and relationships. The supplemental essays focus heavily on academic interests, so avoid generic responses about "helping people" or "making a difference." Instead, connect your intellectual passions to specific professors, research opportunities, or Princeton's unique academic structure.
Reference Princeton's distinctive features in your essays: the senior thesis requirement that caps every student's undergraduate experience, the eating clubs that shape social life, or the grade deflation policy that was recently modified. Mention specific professors whose work excites you or research happening in Princeton's institutes like the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs or the Princeton Writing Program.
Don't assume Princeton is just another Ivy League school focused on pre-professional tracks. The university emphasizes undergraduate education and intellectual exploration over career preparation. Your essays should reflect genuine academic curiosity rather than career ambitions.
Princeton offers single-choice early action, not binding early decision like many peers. This means you can apply early without committing to attend, but you cannot apply early elsewhere. The early action advantage exists, though the school won't admit students who aren't qualified for regular decision.
Avoid writing about Princeton's beautiful campus or strong reputation. Every applicant mentions these obvious features. Instead, focus on specific academic programs, research opportunities, or traditions like Reunions weekend that genuinely connect to your interests and goals. The admissions committee reads thousands of essays about Princeton's Gothic architecture and orange and black colors.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $10,555/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $59,710
- Students Receiving Aid
- 19%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 97.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $110,066/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 97.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Princeton University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Princeton requires either SAT or ACT scores for all applicants. The university does not have a test-optional policy.
What is the application deadline for Princeton University?
Princeton's early action deadline is November 1, and the regular decision deadline is January 1. All application materials must be submitted by these dates.
Does Princeton University accept transfer students?
Princeton accepts a very limited number of transfer students each year, typically fewer than 20 students. Transfer applications are due March 1 for fall admission only.
Can you apply early decision to Princeton University?
Princeton offers Single Choice Early Action, not Early Decision. This means you can apply early but are not bound to attend if admitted, though you cannot apply early to other private colleges.