princeton phd admission requirements

A Princeton Profile

Admission and costs, undergraduate admission and enrollment.

Princeton admits a class of students each year that stands out not just for outstanding academic ability but also for the wide range of backgrounds, interests, accomplishments and aspirations it represents.

The University seeks students who will benefit from a Princeton education and will use that educational experience to impact their communities and the world.

Princeton offers two admission programs for first-year applicants: Single-Choice Early Action —requiring applicants to apply early only to Princeton—and Regular Decision . Both programs have a candidate’s reply date of May 1.

The University also offers a transfer admission process that enrolls a group of exceptionally well-prepared transfer students. Students from lower-income backgrounds, community college students and U.S. military veterans are particularly encouraged to apply.

Application Deadlines

Admission 2023: Class of 2027

As of August 21, 2023; all percentages rounded

Additionally, for academic year 2023-24, the University is enrolling 33 transfer students, with 24 students transferring from community colleges and 21 having actively served in the U.S. military, with four branches of service represented. 

In 2023-24, the largest numbers of undergraduate students came from New Jersey (922), New York (628), California (604), Pennsylvania (265) and Florida (228). Students also came from 110 nations.

As of June 2023, 72.8% of the entering class of 2023 graduated from Princeton within four years. The four-year graduation rate was significantly lower than in recent years as a result of students taking one-year extensions made available in 2020-21 during the COVID pandemic. As of June 2023, 97.1% of the entering Class of 2021 have received a degree from Princeton within six years.

Undergraduate Costs and Financial Aid

Here is what it costs for an undergraduate to study at Princeton:

The University’s pioneering financial aid program , made possible by the University endowment and the sustained generosity of alumni and others, provides the assistance necessary to make sure that all students, including international students, who are admitted and have demonstrated financial need can attend. The aid comes in the form of grants, which do not need to be repaid. Because no student is required to take out loans, Princeton’s aid program allows its students to graduate debt-free. Princeton made substantial enhancements to its aid program starting with the 2023-24 academic year, providing even more generous support to undergraduates and their families.

Class of 2027

Financial Aid for Admitted Students

The average aid package for an undergraduate student in 2023-24 is more than $72,000 and covers the full cost of tuition and housing. Most families with incomes up to $100,000 receive aid to cover the cost of attendance, including tuition, housing, food, books and personal expenses. Nearly 25% of all undergraduates are expected to receive this level of aid. Most students from families with incomes up to $190,000 receive aid to cover the full cost of tuition, and many families living in the U.S. with incomes up to and even beyond $300,000 receive grant aid, including those at higher income levels with multiple children in college. 

The amount each family is asked to contribute varies based on a review of income, assets and support provided to undergraduate siblings for college costs. Princeton uses its own need formula to determine the family contribution.

Family Contribution By Income 

•  Chart contains information based on families with assets less than $150,000, residing in the United States with one child enrolled in college. Assets do not include retirement holdings or primary residence. Assets do include non-retirement investments, 529 plan college savings, student assets and investments, non-primary vacation and other homes.

• Figures in chart are presented per year.

• Information in chart is not a guarantee of aid eligibility. 

Princeton’s Estimated Financial Aid Budget, 2023–24

Graduate Admission and Enrollment

Of the 14,577 applicants to the Graduate School for 2023–24, 1,369 were admitted and 742 accepted the offer of admission.

While graduate candidates submit applications to the Graduate School, faculty members in the individual departments that will award the degrees review the applications and make admission recommendations to the dean.

In 2022-23, Princeton awarded 445 Ph.D.s and 234 final master’s degrees.

Graduate Admission 2023–24:

All Master’s and Doctoral Candidates All percentages rounded

** Includes domestic candidates who self-identified as Black or African American, Latino/Hispanic, American Indian or Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, or two or more races provided one is included in this definition   *Percentage is of all U.S. candidates †Percentage is of all STEM candidates

Graduate Enrollment 2022–23

The Graduate School enrolled 3,212 degree candidates in 43 departments and programs in academic year 2022–23. Forty-two percent of the Graduate School’s students are female, and 42% are citizens of other countries. Twenty-one percent of domestic graduate students at Princeton are members of U.S. underrepresented populations. The median time from matriculation to receiving a Ph.D. at Princeton, including all departments, is 5.7 years (for 2022–23).

Enrollment of Graduate Degree Candidates by Academic Division, 2022–23

Graduate Costs and Financial Support

All Ph.D. and many master’s degree candidates in the Graduate School receive financial support for the duration of their degree program through some combination of University fellowships, assistantships in research or teaching, and non-University awards. Princeton guarantees funding for its regularly enrolled, degree-seeking Ph.D. candidates for all years of regular program enrollment, contingent upon satisfactory academic performance. This funding covers the full cost of tuition and fees and a stipend intended to support the estimated living expenses of a single graduate student.

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Important Dates:

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Application Deadline

By February

Admission Decision

Admission Requirements

Please refer to Applying to Princeton for the authoritative requirements for admission to all graduate programs at Princeton University, including the Department of Chemistry.

Specific requirements for application to the Department of Chemistry may be found on the Chemistry Field of Study page.

Ultimately, all prospective graduate student must apply through the university’s Online Graduate School Application .

Upon receiving applications from the Graduate School, the Department of Chemistry’s Admissions Review Committee reviews each application in a holistic fashion, considering all aspects of the application file including prior research and coursework, letters of recommendation and standardized test scores.

Further Details and Fine Print…

Standardized scores.

The submission of GRE general test scores is strongly recommended but not required. There are no minimum test score requirements for admission. If submitted, the standardized scores are reviewed as part of the applicant’s portfolio by the faculty review committee.

Please note that some November GRE test results might not be officially submitted by ETS until after the December 1 deadline. You may self-report the test results to our graduate program manager, Patti Wallack , by email as soon as you have them. The November results are usually received by the Graduate School by mid-December allowing sufficient time for the official report to be confirmed by the admissions committee.

The application fee is established and managed by the Graduate School. The department cannot grant a fee waiver.  More information on fee waivers.

Financial Support

All students receive full financial support for the length of their course of study funded through fellowship, teaching and advisor support. This support is not a loan and does not require repayment. Students are provided tuition, health insurance and a stipend for housing and living expenses. More information about financial support, policies and rates.

Admissions Decisions and Campus Visit

Admissions decisions are shared by February . Official campus visits for accepted students are held in February and March. An invitation to attend one of our Visiting Weekends will be sent to all accepted students.

Graduate Program Who’s Who:

Patti Wallack Manager of Educational Programs, Outreach, and Events [email protected]

Contact Patti for all graduate program and admissions questions.

Sarah Mullins Graduate Program Manager [email protected]

Contact Sarah for all graduate program and admissions questions.

Susan VanderKam Associate Director, Undergraduate Program [email protected]

You may already have met Susan at a conference. Contact Susan for questions about diversity initiatives and resources.

Erik Sorensen Arthur Allan Patchett Professor in Organic Chemistry, Professor of Chemistry Director of Graduate Studies

Graduate School

General Information

Program offerings:, director of graduate studies:, graduate program administrator:.

Graduate work within the Department of Psychology emphasizes preparation for research and teaching in psychology, with specialization in the following broad areas: cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychology, language, learning and memory, perception and cognition, the psychology of inequality, social neuroscience, social psychology, and systems neuroscience. The program is designed to prepare students for attaining the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and a career of productive scholarship in psychology.

First-year students work closely with a faculty adviser to plan and conduct research, as well as begin their coursework. Second-year students conduct research, prepare a written report of a research project, and prepare a theoretical overview of research in their field. Students sometimes take relevant seminars and courses across departments. The third year begins with the general exam and is then devoted to conducting research and to continuing study in the student’s area of specialization by means of courses, independent reading, and advanced seminars. During the fourth and fifth years, students are expected to dedicate their time to mastering methods and techniques in the relevant area of study, discussing a dissertation proposal with their committee, completing dissertation-related research, and writing the thesis. Students are expected to write up and submit their research for publication on an ongoing basis throughout their graduate career.

The final public oral examination for the doctoral degree is based on the research questions, methods, and results of the dissertation and the relation of its findings to current problems in psychological research.

Program Offerings

Program offering: ph.d..

During the first year of their Ph.D., all students will complete the following courses:

• Proseminar in Basic Problems in Psychology: Cognitive Psychology (PSY 501)
• Proseminar: Social Psychology (PSY 500)
• Foundations of Statistical Methods for Psychological Science (PSY 503)
• Advanced Statistical Methods for Psychological Science (PSY 504)

Also required:

• Responsible Conduct of Research course (PSY 591A/NEU 591A), normally taken during the second year
• Each semester starting in the first year, students will enroll in either a Research Seminar in Cognitive Psychology or Design and Interpretation of Social Psychological Research (PSY 543/PSY 551)

Additional coursework:

• Students are encouraged to enroll in Current Issues in Statistical Methods and Research Practices for Psychological Science (PSY 505), which is offered regularly and offers an opportunity to stay up-to-date on new trends in statistics

In subsequent semesters it is expected that students will enroll in seminars in the psychology department and/or other departments at Princeton as they (and their advisors) see fit. Interdisciplinary courses are encouraged, and students in a joint degree program may have additional course requirements

Additional pre-generals requirements

Colloquia and Seminars Psychology colloquia are held at regular intervals throughout the year and are attended by faculty, research staff, and graduate students. Weekly research seminars are also held throughout the year. At these seminars, students in various research areas present their work and exchange ideas with one another and with the faculty.

Pre-generals Research Project Students are required to work with a faculty member on a research project related to their area of interest. Students must prepare a written report on their pre-generals research project prior to the general examination.

General exam

Students can take the general examination beginning in the fourth semester of enrollment, and nearly all students complete the general exam by early October of the third year. All students are expected to have successfully completed the general examination by the end of the third year of enrollment. No student will be admitted to a fourth year without completing the general examination. All components of the examination must be passed before a graduate student can advance to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree.

A decision as to whether the student has passed the general examination is made by the student’s  committee. The basic criterion for passing the examination is the faculty's conviction that the student is prepared to begin work on the doctoral dissertation.

Qualifying for the M.A.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) degree is normally an incidental degree on the way to full Ph.D. candidacy and is earned after successfully passing all parts of the general examination. It may also be awarded to students who, for various reasons, leave the Ph.D. program, provided that the following requirements are met: passing the proseminar, passing coursework in graduate statistics and ethics, successfully completing the pre-generals research project, and passing the general examination.

Teaching experience is an important and meaningful part of graduate education in the Department of Psychology, and students are encouraged to reason about their roles as teachers by engaging with pedagogy-related talks and workshops both in the department and at the McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning. Ph.D. candidates in psychology do not teach during the first year, but every Ph.D. candidate is required to teach a minimum of nine hours during their graduate career, which usually corresponds to three semesters of teaching. Students will teach for additional semesters during their graduate careers if they do not have a fellowship or advisor funding to cover their tuition and stipend. Each semester of teaching provides support towards the student’s tuition and stipend.

Dissertation and FPO

The Ph.D. is awarded after the candidate’s doctoral dissertation has been accepted and the final public oral examination sustained.

• Kenneth A. Norman

Associate Chair

• Adele E. Goldberg

Director of Graduate Studies

• Casey Lew-Williams

Director of Undergraduate Studies

• Michael S. Graziano
• Jonathan D. Cohen
• Joel Cooper
• Nathaniel D. Daw
• Asif A. Ghazanfar
• Tom Griffiths
• Sabine Kastner
• Tania Lombrozo
• Kristina R. Olson
• Elizabeth L. Paluck
• Deborah A. Prentice
• Emily Pronin
• Eldar Shafir
• J. Nicole Shelton
• Stacey A. Sinclair
• Susan L. Sugarman
• Diana I. Tamir
• Elke U. Weber

Associate Professor

• Timothy J. Buschman
• Alin I. Coman
• Molly J. Crockett
• Jordan A. Taylor

Assistant Professor

• Rebecca M. Carey
• Erik C. Nook
• Natalia Vélez

Associated Faculty

• Jesse Gomez, Princeton Neuroscience Inst
• Elizabeth Gould, Princeton Neuroscience Inst
• Sarah-Jane Leslie, Philosophy
• Elizabeth H. Margulis, Music
• Jonathan W. Pillow, Princeton Neuroscience Inst
• Ilana B. Witten, Princeton Neuroscience Inst

Senior Lecturer

• Justin A. Junge
• Jason Geller
• Megan Spokas

Visiting Professor

• Heather Jennings

Visiting Assistant Professor

• Theresa Herman

Visiting Lecturer

• Haran Sened

For a full list of faculty members and fellows please visit the department or program website.

Permanent Courses

Courses listed below are graduate-level courses that have been approved by the program’s faculty as well as the Curriculum Subcommittee of the Faculty Committee on the Graduate School as permanent course offerings. Permanent courses may be offered by the department or program on an ongoing basis, depending on curricular needs, scheduling requirements, and student interest. Not listed below are undergraduate courses and one-time-only graduate courses, which may be found for a specific term through the Registrar’s website. Also not listed are graduate-level independent reading and research courses, which may be approved by the Graduate School for individual students.

NEU 502A - Systems and Cognitive Neuroscience (also MOL 502A/PSY 502A)

Neu 511 - current issues in neuroscience and behavior (also psy 511), neu 537 - systems neuroscience: computing with populations of neurons (also mol 537/psy 517), psy 500 - proseminar in basic problems in psychology: social psychology, psy 501 - proseminar in basic problems in psychology: cognitive psychology, psy 503 - foundations of statistical methods for psychological science, psy 504 - advanced statistical methods for psychological science, psy 505 - current issues in statistical methods and research practices for psychological science, psy 543 - research seminar in cognitive psychology, psy 551 - design and interpretation of social psychological research, psy 591a - responsible conduct of research (also neu 591a), psy 591b - neuroethics, psy 596 - extramural research internship, psy 597 - extramural research internship, spi 519a - negotiation, persuasion and social influence: theory and practice (also psy 528a), spi 590d - psychological studies of inequality (half-term) (also psy 590).

Electrical and Computer Engineering

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The campus is situated in the heart of Princeton, NJ — one hour from New York City and one hour from Philadelphia — with its picturesque setting and vibrant social life.

Ph.D. Program

Here are the key dates and links regarding submitting an application for the PhD Program

• The application process is open for approximately three months each fall, from mid-September (9/15) until the application deadline.
• The next application deadline is December 15, 2024
• All applications are submitted online  through the Graduate School.
• GRE: General Test optional/not required

The department often interviews short-listed applicants prior to making a final decision.

Admission decisions will be emailed to applicants by mid-February following the application deadline. The Program starts in August.

Fee waivers are available to eligible applicants upon request . For further details about eligibility, please refer to the Graduate School's policies .

Masters of Engingeering Program

Applications to the M.Eng. program in electrical and computer engineering is restricted to current Princeton seniors. The application deadline is January 3. All applications are submitted on line through the Graduate School .

We discourage applications from others, who will not be admitted.  

December 15 - 11:59 PM EST

• Get to know our research . You won't become an expert before you get here, but familiarizing yourself with our work better prepares you to make informed decisions. In your communications with us, demonstrating that you know who we are and what we do tells us you are serious.
• Reach out. It's a good idea to contact the professors you've identified in step one. Be prepared to discuss your interests and inquire about ongoing and future research opportunities.
• Write a compelling statement. Your Statement of Academic Purpose should state what you hope to work on in our graduate program and explain how your background prepares you.
• Get strong letters of recommendation. What you say about yourself, and what your transcripts say about you, are very important in the admissions process. But what others say about you, especially those who know your work and can speak to your abilities, is essential to standing out in a highly competitive pool of applicants.
• Demonstrate your ambition. The committee considers a broad range of credentials when reviewing an application, including strong fundamentals and a commitment to highly impactful research. It is not uncommon for students who have a weakness in one area to make a strong case for themselves by demonstrating excellence in other areas.

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Graduate Program

• Information for Prospective Graduate Students
• Information for Current Graduate Students

For Prospective Graduate Students:

Welcome ! Thank you for your interest in the Computer Science Department at Princeton. This site is designed to give information on our graduate study program and the requirements for the Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) . Candidates may apply directly to the Ph.D. program after completion of a bachelor's degree; a master's degree is not required for admission.

Admission to Princeton is for the fall semester only. We do not offer evening, weekend, or summer courses. We do not have a distance learning program. Normally a student admitted for graduate study is expected to have completed a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, science, or mathematics; a degree in computer science is not required.

The application deadline for Fall 2024 is December 15, 2023  for all applicants. It is important that all materials reach the University by the deadline dates.

• Admission Requirements and Application Materials
• Financial Aid
• Research Fields
• Courses Offered - Graduate , Undergraduate
• Graduate Student Housing

For more information, see the  frequently asked questions . You can also contact our Graduate Coordinator at [email protected].

For Current Ph.D. Graduate Students:

• Courses Offered -  Graduate ,  Undergraduate
• Breadth Requirements (for students beginning Fall 2020 or later)
• Breadth Requirements (for students beginning Fall 2019 or earlier)
• Degree Requirements
• Upcoming Fellowship Opportunities
• Princeton Grad Student Guide to Resources

For Current MSE & M.Eng. Graduate Students:

Department of Physics

Graduate Admissions

Welcome, and thank you for your interest in joining the Princeton Physics community. Here you will find a description of the application process for the graduate program. To learn what it’s like to be a Physics graduate student at Princeton, check out the Student Experience page . To apply, visit the Graduate School Admissions page .

Application deadline: December 15 - 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time

Admissions decisions announced: mid February-mid March

Offer acceptance deadline: mid April

Program start: August

In the evaluation of each applicant, we look primarily for the potential to perform forefront research in experiment, theory, or some combination. 

The Physics department is strongly committed to creating an inclusive, diverse graduate community whose members feel welcome and valued. However, we also recognize that the Physics community has much work to do towards improving diversity and we strongly encourage members of Historically Underrepresented Groups to apply. Click here to read our Statement of Solidarity with movements against systemic racism and to learn about our department’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Initiative.

The Admissions Process:

Each application is read by at least two faculty members. We take a holistic approach to admissions , carefully weighing all components of the application to make the best determination about which students will be a good fit in our department. Each year we receive more than 600 applications and send out admissions offers to roughly 50 – 60 applicants. The typical class size is 20 – 30 students, roughly half of whom are international students. Admitted students begin the following September -- they never begin the program in January. Because of the small number of students in each cohort, applicants are admitted only as candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. There is no separate Master of Arts program and no provision for part-time students. However, an M.A. is awarded to those who desire it after they have passed their Generals requirements.

More details about each application component can be found below.

Other departments:

Students might want to explore physics research in the following departments: Astrophysical Sciences , Plasma Physics , Electrical Engineering, Chemistry , Molecular Biology , Chemical and Biological Engineering , Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences , Neuroscience , Quantitative and Computational Biology . Our research subpages list some associated faculty in other departments with official connections to the Physics department. Note, however, that you are only able to apply to one department at a time.

For questions regarding the application process, please reach out to Katherine Lamos, Graduate Program Administrator . For general info about the department culture and graduate life, feel free to reach out to the Physics Ambassador for your region. https://phy.princeton.edu/ambassadors-program . For information about Access, Diversity, and Inclusion (ADI) in Princeton’s Graduate School, please visit the ADI “ Prospective Students ” page.

Application Components:

The Statement of Academic Purpose is an opportunity to describe your past research experiences and future research interests. We look for a thoughtful statement that shows signs of creativity and a potential for research. The statement must be convincing and coherent, based on some familiarity with the proposed area of research. It is often helpful if you can relate your research and interests to the research of specific faculty and groups at Princeton. It is not necessary to describe how you became interested in physics. However, if your path to applying to the Princeton Department of Physics was unusual or compelling, please feel free to describe it. The admissions process is holistic, and we pay attention to how students have made use of the opportunities available to them. The bulk of your Statement should be about science, but if there are aspects of your application or experience that you would like to contextualize, please include that information. We are aware that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students may have dealt with unexpected difficulties while taking classes or may have taken many classes with unusual grading policies (eg, pass/fail). Additional relevant background information that will help put your transcript in context would be welcome.

A list of questions you might want to address are listed below. Feel free, however, to include additional information you consider relevant:

• What background in math, physics, or other sciences have you had that is beyond the usual curriculum of the physics major and that you think is important for us to know?
• What research experiences have you had? If you made important or original contributions, please explain what they are and, if relevant, how they have influenced your interest in physics.
• Are you planning to do experimental or theoretical physics, or are you undecided? If your physics courses or research experience have influenced you in this decision, explain how.
• What kinds of physics are you most interested in pursuing and why? What has influenced you in this decision? Why is Princeton the right fit for your research interests?
• The research program of our faculty is on the web . Give examples of groups and faculty with whom you might be interested in working.
• What special aspects of your personality, hobbies, interests and skills make you think that you will be a good physicist?
• The statement should not exceed 1,000 words and must be written in English. ( note the Graduate School's file upload requirements .)

The curriculum Vitae (C.V.) is an opportunity to share your history of employment, activities, community  service, education, academic or professional honors, and publications. Talks and conferences  attended should also be included. Please see the Graduate School website for details and also note the file upload requirements .

Three letters of recommendation are required. We pay close attention to letters from people who really know you and can provide relevant information about your potential for physics research. You should prioritize mentors when selecting people to provide letters on your behalf , especially those who have supervised your research. Recommendation letters should help us evaluate your capacity for research, which is the most important criterion for admission. It is useful for recommenders to familiarize themselves with our graduate program so their letter can reflect your potential at Princeton. Please follow the Graduate School's guidelines for submitting recommendation letters and give your recommenders the following letter offering guidelines: Letter for Recommenders .

The application fee is $75.00. Fee waivers are available based on financial hardship (for U.S. citizens and permanent residents only) or participation in certain programs (for all applicants). Visit the   Graduate School’s website   for application instructions and a list of programs. For example, membership in the NSBP, NSHP, or GRE Fee Reduction Program all qualify one for a fee waiver. We are unable to offer fee waivers for the GRE General or Physics Subject Tests. However, ETS offers a fee reduction program based on financial hardship and participation in certain programs. See the ETS website for details. 

We require a transcript at the time of application from all colleges or universities that you have attended. This transcript may be unofficial, but must include the name of the student, name of the issuing institution, name of courses taken, and the grades received in those courses, and the key from all attended colleges or universities. Additionally, if your transcript is not in English, we require an official English translation along with your transcript. You do not need to wait for fall semester grades to upload your transcript; those can be submitted separately if necessary.

Because this is an unofficial transcript and expected to be sent online, you may, for example, open a sealed copy of your transcript, scan it, and send it, or request an emailed official transcript to be sent to yourself, and upload that to the website. We will not accept screenshots of student portals as transcripts.

Note that grades, while an important component to admissions decisions, are certainly not the only one or the primary factor, and that we strongly encourage applicants to apply even if they feel their grades to be unexceptional. You will be required to submit an official transcript from every college or university from which you have earned a degree if you are accepted and wish to attend.

If you are currently a student at a university that provides fall semester grades, we require you to upload those grades once they become available. If your fall grades were available and are included in the transcript you submitted, you do not need to submit anything.  If not, once they are available, log back into the application checklist and upload them. Requirements about translation and screenshots are the same here as in the general transcript upload.

For the 2023/2024 admission cycle, both the General GRE and Physics Subject exams will be optional.

In addition to English language tests (described below), in most years we require both the GRE general test and the physics subject GRE test (only offered three times a year in September, October & April). These scores are due at the time of application. We emphasize that standardized test results are only one of the many components we take into consideration when evaluating applications, top scores are not a requirement.

We recognize that there is an ongoing debate about the usefulness of the GRE exam in graduate admissions decisions. One advantage is that it provides students from less traditional backgrounds an opportunity to stand out in the admissions process, and we evaluate applications with an understanding of the exam’s limitations in mind.

We recommend studying for the Physics GRE exam well in advance. ETS publishes a few old tests, which can be used to gauge what you need to work on, and there are published books which contain relevant study material.

Graduate students must be able to communicate in English to be successful at Princeton. We accept the TOEFL or the IELTS as measures of English proficiency. All students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores unless their native language is English, or they have studied for at least three years towards a bachelor’s degree or Ph.D. in the US, UK, Ireland, Australia, or Anglophone Canada. If you are unsure if you need to submit a test, this page contains more detailed information. This page also contains details on the logistics of taking and sending scores, which must be official scores.

Ph.D. Application

Graduate Admissions Office 609-258-4836 [email protected]

Application Timeline

Application Deadline : December 15, 2023, 11:59 p.m. ET Application Fee : $75 Application Fee Waiver Information   Admissions Decisions : March 15, 2024 Admitted Students Decision Deadline : April 15, 2024

Requirements

In addition to the Princeton University graduate application, there are specific application requirements for our Ph.D. program, including selecting a field of concentration: Security Studies or Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP) .

A completed application includes:

Princeton University Graduate Application

Describes the applicant’s motivation for applying to the Ph.D. program, including factors in academic, personal, and professional background that led the applicant toward the doctoral degree. The statement should convey familiarity with the Ph.D. in Public Affairs program in order to enable the committee to understand the likely match between applicant’s research and faculty who will supervise this work.  This statement should also identify the kinds of courses and curriculum the applicant is seeking and similarly identify professional aspirations following completion of the Ph.D. program.

The personal statement should not exceed 500 words and must be written in English. The goal of the personal essay is to give you space to highlight your unique personal and professional story and share how it has helped to prepare you for success in graduate school.

Include a 20 to 25-page research paper or previous academic work. Our faculty will assess the quality of writing and promise for original research. The length of the paper is not as important as the quality of the work.

List employment activities, community service, education, authored or co-authored publications, and academic and professional honors. Include a brief annotation of job responsibilities, leadership, and awards. The résumé should be presented in sufficient detail so that the admissions committee has an accurate picture of the applicant’s professional trajectory — such as promotions or job progression, leadership profile, and impact.

Faculty on the admissions committee evaluate applicants’ aptitude for courses in economic and quantitative analysis. A master’s degree is not required but is recommended. Provide courses and grades for any institution of higher learning attended, whether or not a degree was obtained. Transcripts can be unofficial.

Grade point average from each degree-granting education program. Applicants should convert their GPA to a 4.0 scale if needed here .

Three letters of recommendation are required. The letters must be written in English and come from faculty members or other individuals well acquainted with the applicant’s academic work. References should understand applicant’s reasons for applying to the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs as well as the person’s goals and strengths.

English language test scores are required for all applicants whose primary language is not English, whose undergraduate instruction was not entirely in English as certified by the institution or who have not completed at least one year of full-time graduate study entirely in English as certified by the institution.  Additional information about this Graduate School requirement is available at this site .

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Graduate Program

Ph.d. studies at princeton economics.

The Ph.D. program at Princeton Economics is one of the premier economics programs in the world. The small number of students admitted each year receive training in an exceptional research environment, supported by faculty members who are working at the forefront of research in their fields.

Admission to the program is extremely selective. Each year, the department receives approximately 800 applications for a class of 20 to 25 students. Students come from diverse backgrounds and from dozens of countries around the globe.

Princeton provides all admitted Ph.D. students tuition and fellowship support for the academic year. Admitted students also receive fellowship support through the summer months so they can continue their study and research when classes are not in session.

The Economics Department at Princeton does not offer a Master’s Degree. Students looking for information about the Master in Finance can learn more on the Princeton Bendheim Center for Finance website .

Job Market Placements

Department of English

Applying to Our Program

Application information can be found on the Graduate School Admission website .

Application Deadline: 

December 1 -- 11:59PM Eastern Standard Time

Program Length: 

5 years with multiple opportunities for research funding in year 6

Application Requirements: 

Statement of Academic Purpose Resume/Curriculum Vitae Recommendation Letters (3) Transcripts Personal Essay Fall Semester Grades English Language Tests

Additional Departmental Requirements: 

Sample of critical writing, approximately 25 pages in length, preferably in the student’s proposed field of study. This sample must be a sustained piece of writing, not the total of several smaller works, and can be an excerpt from a larger work.

We know the college admission process can be a little overwhelming. We're here to help. For quick reference, we’ve compiled the answers to our frequently asked questions. Please select your topic below.

All my papers are in another language. What should I do?

We ask for a paper written in English because all Princeton courses (with the exception of foreign language courses) are taught in English. If you are unable to provide a graded written paper, we will still review your application, but we will have less information with which to review your file.

Am I at a disadvantage if I didn’t receive a high school diploma, either because I didn’t complete high school or received an alternative (e.g. GED)?

No. Students have enrolled at Princeton without completion of traditional high school programs. The most important factors for academic review include strong recent academic success, such as rigorous college coursework aligned with your intended areas of study , and the courses taught for credit at Princeton.

Am I considered a domestic or international applicant in your admissions process?

Citizenship has no impact on our determination of an applicant’s status as either domestic or international. Students are considered domestic applicants if they are attending a secondary school in the United States; likewise, students attending a secondary school abroad are considered international applicants. The Office of Admission does not evaluate or advantage applicants differently based on their status as either domestic or international students.

Am I encouraged to reveal my undocumented or DACA status in an essay?

We encourage all students to create an application that will help us contextualize their achievements in and out of the classroom. Some students feel that certain aspects of their identity can best illustrate this context and dedicate their essays accordingly. Ultimately, it is up to each student to determine how to best represent themselves in their applications. We encourage students to write on any topic, and per office policy, we do not make individual recommendations.

Are applications from non-U.S. citizens treated differently in the admission process?

No. We consider all applications in the same way, regardless of citizenship or high school location. We also make no distinctions between international and domestic students when considering financial need.

Are international students eligible for application fee waivers?

Yes. International students are eligible for application fee waivers. You may request a fee waiver if you are from a lower-income background, or if the application fee is a hardship for your family, and you are applying for financial aid. Please note that applying for a fee waiver will not disadvantage your application in any way. You can learn more about fee waivers on the Application Checklist.

Are international students eligible for financial aid?

Yes. Our policy of meeting financial need in full for admitted students applies to all admitted students, regardless of citizenship.

Are minimum grade-point averages, class ranks, or test scores required for admission?

No. We consider all of these measures, but only within the context of each applicant’s school and situation. In general, our most promising candidates tend to earn high grades and have comparatively high scores on standardized tests. These criteria, while important, do not by themselves provide a complete picture of each student’s academic accomplishment or potential. We evaluate all aspects of a student’s academic preparation.

Are my chances of admission enhanced by submitting application materials before other applications?

No. Though we encourage regular decision applicants to submit their portion of the application by Dec. 15, if possible, there is no advantage to doing so.  

Are my chances of admission enhanced if a relative has attended Princeton?

The application process is the same for all candidates. However, in recognition of the special bond that Princeton has with its alumni, it is considered a “plus factor” in our process if your mother, father, stepmother or stepfather attended Princeton. We take that information into account as part of our holistic review process.  

Are on-campus interviews offered?

No. We offer interviews off-campus by the Princeton Schools Committee. If there are enough volunteers in your area, you will be contacted by an interviewer after you submit your application. If you do choose to visit campus, you will have the opportunity to attend an admission information session, a campus tour or an engineering school tour.

Are senior-year grades considered when evaluating applications?

Your counselor is asked to send us your first semester or first trimester grades with the midyear Report. It is important that you continue to excel in your classes during your final year of high school. If you are admitted, your counselor is asked to send us your final grades for the senior year with the final report. Admission is conditional upon your successful completion of the senior year. Princeton reserves the right to withdraw an offer of admission if there is a significant drop in your academic performance between January and June of your senior year.

Are standardized tests (SAT/ACT) required?

We will not require the submission of standardized test scores for falls 2023, 2024, and 2025 application cycles; this includes transfer applicants. As always, our review process will be a holistic one, focused not just on an applicant’s academic strengths, but also on the talents and perspectives that they will bring to the Princeton campus.

Are Subject tests required?

No. We do not require Subject Tests. If you chose to sit for a Subject Test (prior to January 2021 for domestic students and prior to June 2021 for international students) and wish to submit the score, you may do so. Please note: The College Board eliminated SAT Subject Tests in January 2021 for domestic students and in June 2021 for international students.

Are the admission officers familiar with the educational systems of other countries?

Yes, we are familiar with the educational systems and academic credentials of most countries around the world. You are welcome to provide additional information about the educational system in your country.

Are the courses I take in my last year of high school important in the admission process?

Yes. You should maintain a full academic course load for your senior year of high school. You will need to ask your school to send us your grades for the first semester or trimester of your senior year, along with the midyear report form. If you are admitted, we will ask for your final grades at the end of the school year.

Are the tours & information sessions accessible?

Yes. We do our best to make accommodations for any guests who may require Americans with Disabilities accessible spaces. In order to ensure we make accommodations, please register in advance for our information sessions and tours, and detail your specific requests.

Learn more about our accessibility offerings.

Are there exceptions to the general rule that Princeton won’t disclose a student’s personal information?

Yes, there are some limited circumstances in which certain information about a student may be available to the general public and/or the government.

First, unless a student submits a written request to the Registrar asking for confidentiality, the University may share the student’s “Directory Information”: the student’s name; telephone number; email address; photo; dates of attendance; major field of study; degrees and awards; school(s) attended prior to Princeton; participation in officially recognized activities, organizations and athletic teams; and weight and height of members of athletic teams. Princeton’s policy is to keep student addresses, dates of birth and places of birth confidential, even though the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act identifies that information as available for public disclosure. All directory information can, however, be kept confidential if the affected student makes a written request to the Registrar.

Second, Princeton may be legally required to provide a student’s records to government officials or law enforcement officers if presented with a valid, lawful subpoena or comparably binding requirement (for example, a court order). In that case, Princeton will ordinarily provide notice to the student whose records are requested before complying with the request.

Additional details are available in  Rights, Rules, Responsibilities Section 2.7 .

Are there majors at Princeton?

Yes there are majors at Princeton. 

Are there other programs available for a nontraditional applicant to build an academic foundation?

While available college coursework is often the ideal choice, some programs that may not grant credit or even provide grades can assist with this preparation. An example would include the Warrior-Scholar Project for active duty/military applicants, which can still provide valuable academic skills to prepare for the rigor of our curriculum.

Are there quotas for certain kinds of applicants?

No. The Admission Office does not use quotas of any kind.  

Are there quotas for international applicants?

No. The Admission Office does not use quotas of any kind.

Are there required first-year classes?

Princeton requires all first-year students to take a writing seminar, either during the fall or spring semester of their first year. However, you may select the topic of the course based on your interests. Otherwise, you may enroll in any Princeton courses in which you are interested and for which you are prepared with the appropriate prerequisites if applicable.  

Are there research opportunities for undergraduates?

All students conduct independent research in their home department. This culminates in the senior thesis, where each student works one-on-one with a faculty mentor. Some students conduct their research in the library or the lab. Others travel to do field research or undertake a creative project such as a novel or a series of paintings. To get a better sense of the tremendous resources provided for undergraduate research, please visit the Office of Undergraduate Research .

Are there special admission requirements for students applying from abroad?

If English is not the primary language spoken in your home and you attend a school where English is not the language of instruction, you must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language ( TOEFL ), the International English Language Testing System Academic ( IELTS Academic ) or the Pearson Test of English Academic ( PTE Academic ). Otherwise, there are no additional admission requirements for international students or U.S. citizens attending high schools abroad.

Are undocumented students eligible for admission and financial aid?

Yes. Princeton admits students without regard to citizenship status and meets 100% of demonstrated need each year a student is enrolled at Princeton. Undocumented students, including students who have received deferred action under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals process, should apply for financial aid by completing the Princeton Financial Aid Application . The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is not required. Princeton is one of only a handful of schools nationwide that do not limit the financial aid available, regardless of citizenship status. Admission is offered to students regardless of their ability to pay, and the full need of every admitted undocumented student is met just as it is for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. While undocumented students are ineligible for federal financial aid, students can still receive aid from Princeton. 

As an undocumented or DACA student, can I participate in any International opportunities (study/intern/research abroad?)

International programs are not available to undocumented or DACA students at this time; however, you still have options to pursue programs in the United States through the Office of International Programs (OIP) .

As an undocumented or DACA student, would I be eligible to obtain University health insurance?

All currently enrolled Princeton students, including undocumented and DACA students, are eligible for the Student Health Plan (SHP) . We do not require a social security number for the SHP. 

Before I apply, can I get a sense of whether I might qualify for aid?

Yes. Just enter your financial information into the Princeton financial aid estimator to get an estimate of how much aid you may be qualified to receive. The Princeton financial aid estimator is completely confidential and in no way affects your application for admission or financial aid.

Can I earn credit for courses taken at another college or university?

Students are not eligible for credit for college courses taken before they enter Princeton. Many academic departments at Princeton offer advanced placement to students who have done well on an approved standardized exam (AP, IB, A-Level). Some departments may award advanced placement for a high score on departmental placement tests.  Consult the reference table for AP credit .

Can I email you my financial aid documents?

After you submit the Princeton Financial Aid Application, you will be able to upload the required documents. If you have supplemental information to send, you should use our secure fax number (609-258-0336) or postal mail. Visit Contact Us for our postal address. 

Can I schedule a meeting with a professor?

Our office does not arrange meetings with professors. We encourage students to sit in on classes during their visits to campus, but due to the tightness of the academic calendar, we cannot help make any arrangements between prospective students and faculty members.

Can I schedule a meeting with a varsity coach?

Though the Admission Office makes all final decisions for our student athletes, prospective athletes should communicate directly with Princeton Athletics. Please review the recruiting guidelines and information before you communicate directly with any coaches.

Can I send my tax returns directly to you?

Yes. You will be asked to upload your parents’ tax return, or nonfiler information, after you submit the Princeton Financial Aid Application.  

Can I submit an Optional Arts Supplement before I submit my application for admission?

You must submit an application for admission before you can access the Optional Arts Supplement on your Princeton Applicant Status Portal.

Can I submit an Optional Arts Supplement or participate in an interview if I am applying to Princeton through the National College Match?

If you are applying through the National College Match, we will be unable to review your arts supplement or conduct alumni interviews during the Match application review process given the early timeline. Students considered in our Regular Decision review process will have their arts supplements reviewed and may be offered an interview at that time.

Can I use financial aid to study abroad?

Aid students who receive approval from the Office of International Programs for a semester or year abroad will be eligible for funding based on the cost of the program and amount of their family contribution. Princeton-sponsored summer programs are not included since they have their own funds to support student costs.

Can students begin studies at Princeton during the spring semester?

No. First-year students are admitted for the fall term only.

Can the graded written paper come from a summer course or a college course outside of school?

The graded written paper should come from a course of instruction that is listed on your academic transcript.  

Do any federal laws protect the privacy of student records?

Yes. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal statute that protects the privacy of student records and controls the circumstances under which such records may be disclosed. Princeton’s policy on “Student Privacy Rights Under Federal Law” provides detailed information on FERPA and can be found in  Rights, Rules, Responsibilities (RRR) 2017, Section 2.7 . 

Do I have to maintain a minimum GPA to remain eligible for financial aid?

There is no minimum GPA requirement to remain on financial aid, but students must continue to maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Do I need a minimum required SAT or ACT score

No. There are no cutoffs. We consider all of these measures within the context of each applicant’s school and situation. Our most promising candidates tend to earn strong grades and have comparatively high scores on standardized tests.   We also look at other parts of the application, including teacher references and essays, to learn more about what kind of student you are and how you approach learning.

Do I need to communicate directly with the admission staff member who read my file about my deferral?

No. Our decisions are made by a committee of admission officers, and no single individual is responsible for shaping the outcome of an application. We ask that you update us through the A pplicant Portal with significant changes since you initially applied, but it is unnecessary to reach out to a particular individual.

Do I need to have an interview as part of the admission process?

We try to offer each applicant the opportunity to have a conversation with an alumnus/a volunteer. This is a chance for you to learn more about the Princeton experience and for us to learn more about you. Interviews take place after the Admission Office has received your application. You may choose on the application to opt out of the interview and this choice will not put you at any disadvantage in the admission process. If you do not opt out, you may receive an email inviting you to interview with a member of our Princeton Schools Committee in your area (if available). The alumni interviewer will contact you to arrange a convenient meeting time. Alumni interviews for the 2023-24 application cycle may be in person or virtual depending on the availability of the alumni. The Admission Office has no preference between these two options. We include the interviewer’s comments in our review of your application. Interviews aren't required as part of the admission process, but we encourage candidates to accept the invitation. Do not be concerned if interviews are not available; we will give your application full consideration without an interview. Given the timeline, we will not be able to offer an interview to students who are participating in the QuestBridge National College Match as well as the Transfer Admission Program.

Do I need to reapply for financial aid each year?

For each year of attendance at Princeton, students must submit a new financial aid application.

Do I need to supply my parents’ financial information if I am a self-supporting student?

When awarding aid, we require parental financial information for all students, with very few exceptions.

Do I need to take an English Proficiency Test if I am in an English-medium school or English is my first language?

No. If English is your first language or your language of instruction, you do not need to submit an English proficiency test.

Do my documents have to be in English?

Yes. All documents must be officially translated into English for us to review them.

Do my recommendations have to be written in English?

If the person you ask to complete a teacher recommendation or School Report is not comfortable writing in English, he or she may complete the forms in another language. However, you will need to have the forms officially translated before they are submitted to the Admission Office.

Do students apply to specific academic departments or schools?

We ask you to tell us on the application which degree program you may be most interested in following: bachelor of arts, bachelor of science in engineering or undecided. We look closely at the math and science preparation of students considering engineering studies. However, students apply to the first-year class of Princeton University, not to the engineering or liberal arts programs and are not locked into a degree program (or a specific department within that degree program) upon admission. Students in the engineering school choose a concentration (major) by the end of the first year; bachelor of arts students have two years to choose a concentration.

Do weighted grades or class rank matter in the evaluation of applicants?

In trying to get a sense of the strength of the academic program you have pursued in high school, we look at your transcript course by course and consider all the information your school provides about your academic performance. We also ask the school official completing your School Report to comment on the rigor of your academic program in the context of what is available at your school. Weighted grades or class rank can be another measure of the strength of your academic program as compared with other students who also have many As, but we give equal consideration to applicants from schools that don’t weight grades or rank.

Do you give scholarships for academic merit, special talents or athletic ability?

No. All financial aid awards are based solely on need. 

Do you need to see the grade/instructor comments on the same document that is uploaded, or can they be separate?

They may be separate, but please upload them as one document. If using a grading rubric, please include this information along with your paper.

Does it help to have extra letters of recommendation?

We believe that the required teacher references and a school counselor reference give us much of the information we need to make thoughtful, well-informed decisions. Additional letters are only helpful if the person writing the recommendation knows the candidate well and can provide new, detailed information.

Does it make a difference to Princeton whether I attend a public or private school?

No. We consider how well you have used the resources available to you, regardless of where you attend school.

Does Princeton consider applicants who have been home-schooled?

Yes. We receive and consider applications from home-schooled students every year.  In fact, the valedictorian of the Princeton Class of ’02 was home-schooled before entering Princeton.

Does Princeton consider legal immigration status in the admissions process?

No. All students are considered in the same pool for admission to the incoming class regardless of citizenship status. While being undocumented or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals may present challenges for students wishing to travel or work on campus, immigration status does not impact our reading of an application. The University’s generous need-based financial aid program applies equally to all applicants. If admitted, undocumented students can be confident that their full financial need, as determined by the Undergraduate Financial Aid Office , will be met. We encourage undocumented students to consult with the Office of Admission and Undergraduate Financial Aid Office if they have any questions about our process.

Does Princeton limit the number of students who can be admitted from a particular school?

No. We will look at your application individually, in comparison with the entire applicant pool.

Does Princeton offer benefits for veterans?

Princeton University welcomes applications from veterans and dependents who are eligible for education benefits offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, which includes the Yellow Ribbon Program, and complies with the principles outlined in Executive Order 13607. Princeton participates fully in the Yellow Ribbon program without limitation on the number of students who are eligible. The executive order addresses key areas relating to federal military and veterans educational benefits programs.

Does Princeton offer Early Decision?

Princeton offers a single-choice early action program. It is a nonbinding program for students who have thoroughly researched  their college options and have decided that Princeton is their first choice. Students must complete their application by Nov. 1. They may not apply to an early program at any other private college or university, but they may apply early to any public institution, as long as the decision is nonbinding. Admission decisions will be made by mid-December. Admitted students will have until May 1 to respond and may choose to apply for regular decision at other institutions, enabling them to compare their admission and financial aid offers with those of other colleges and universities.

Does Princeton provide services if I have a disability?

Yes. The Office of Disability Services (ODS) offers a range of services that help ensure equal access to our curricular and co-curricular opportunities for students with disabilities. ODS will meet with each student individually and assess their needs. Accessible housing and transportation is also available. Learn more about ODS .

Does Princeton provide specific resources for undocumented students?

Princeton supports all of its students, financially and otherwise, regardless of citizenship. There are number of resources available on campus through our administrative and student-run services that are knowledgeable about the experience of undocumented students on campus. Review our comprehensive list , located at the bottom of the page, for more information on campus resources for undocumented students.

Does Princeton require particular high school courses?

We don't prescribe a particular high school curriculum, but we do have suggestions for a course of study that will provide solid preparation for a challenging undergraduate program. Students who intend to pursue the B.S.E. degree must complete a year of calculus and high school physics prior to enrolling at Princeton. Chemistry is also recommended. Learn more about academic preparation for study at Princeton.

Does the “no loan” policy mean I would not be allowed to borrow if I wanted to take out a student loan?

Loans are available, and some students request an optional education loan to cover expenses not included in the standard student budget or to help cover all or a portion of the family expectation. 

For students who borrow, what is the average debt at graduation?

For students who choose to borrow, the average total indebtedness is about $9,400. Learn more about how Princeton's aid program works .

Have my application materials been received?

You may use the  Princeton Applicant Portal to verify whether we have received all your required application materials. You will receive a confirmation notice when we have received your application.  Your checklist will be rendered complete once all of the required supporting materials have been sent. If your application is incomplete, we will let you know which pieces are missing and you will be given the opportunity to submit them without penalty.

How and when do I apply for financial aid?

Regular decision applicants should apply for financial aid by Feb. 1 of the year you plan to enter college. Transfer applicants should apply by March 9. Early action applicants should apply by Nov. 9

How and when should I begin my admission application?

You should begin reviewing Princeton's application requirements and materials after the spring of your junior year and plan on beginning your application in the summer before or during the fall of your senior year. The online Coalition and Common Application and the  Princeton-specific Questions  are available in mid-August  Learn more about applying for admission .

How are AP credits applied at Princeton?

Students can use AP credits to enter upper-level courses or to fulfill the foreign language requirement. In a few cases, students who have earned a large number of AP credits use them to graduate early through advanced standing. AP credits may not be used to fulfill the writing requirement, reduce students’ course load in a given term or fulfill the  distribution requirements . To see how your test scores may translate into advanced placement at Princeton, consult the  Reference Table for AP Credit .

How can I be sure my art supplement was received?

Your completed Optional Arts Supplement will be reflected on your Princeton Applicant Status Portal within 24 hours.

How can I do independent research?

Our curriculum encourages students to explore many disciplines and to develop a deep understanding in one area of concentration. Whether they are in the A.B. degree program or the B.S.E. program, during the junior and senior years all students conduct independent research in their home department. This culminates in the senior thesis, where each student works one-on-one with a faculty mentor. Some students conduct their research in the library or the lab. Others travel to do field research or undertake a creative project such as a novel or a series of paintings.

How can I explain an extenuating circumstance that may have impacted my academic performance?

We encourage you to add context and explain any challenges in the additional information sections, if not already addressed in the required responses. This includes both lower grades and any courses from which you withdrew. 

How can I get to New York from campus?

Princeton is located between New York and Philadelphia, and is easy to reach by public transportation or by car. To read more about travel options, please visit our Getting to Campus  site.

How can I get to Philadelphia from campus?

How can i let the admission staff know about my special talent in athletics.

Talented student athletes interested in one of our varsity Division I programs should contact our coaches for more information about varsity athletics at Princeton. Coaches will advise the admission staff about applicants with exceptional athletic talents. Learn more.  

How can I let the admission staff know about my special talent in the arts?

If you've excelled in architecture, creative writing, dance, music, theater or visual arts, and would like us to consider your talent, you are welcome to submit an  optional arts supplement . To the best of our ability, we’ll have arts faculty review your submission and advise the admission staff regarding your abilities.

How can I submit an arts letter of recommendation with my Optional Arts Supplement?

On the "Your Portfolio" tab, you can request an optional arts reference. A reference request email will automatically be sent to that individual. Please note: An arts reference is optional and will only be read by the arts faculty evaluating your supplement unless you submit it as an additional letter of recommendation along with your application to Princeton.

How can I submit an optional Arts Supplement?

On the Common or QuestBridge Application, please indicate your intention to submit an optional Arts Supplement in Princeton’s member questions. You will be able to access the link to submit an optional Arts Supplement in your Princeton Applicant Status Portal.

How can I submit my graded written paper?

Option 1: Upload the graded written paper alongside your application materials when submitting the Common Application.  We will accept scanned documents.

Option 2: Mail, e-mail, or upload the graded written paper to your applicant portal. We will accept scanned documents.

How do I find out whether I match with Princeton?

College Match applicants will learn if they matched with an institution in early December. You will receive an email directly from QuestBridge. Students who match with Princeton will receive a follow-up email from the Office of Admission. Non-matched students will receive an email with next steps. We will not be able to release decisions by phone. Please communicate directly with QuestBridge to find out if you matched with a school.

How do I pay the application fee?

You may pay for the Common Application online with a credit card. If you are having trouble paying online, you may instead send a check or money order to the Princeton University Undergraduate Admission Office. Visit Contact Us for our mailing address.

How do I register for courses?

Before you get to campus, you will receive more information about registering for courses. You will be assigned an academic adviser and you will meet with that faculty member during your first days here to go over your course selection.

How do I request a fee waiver?

You may request a fee waiver one of two ways:  1) Select the fee waiver option on the Common Application. Your college or school counselor must approve your fee waiver request online or submit your fee waiver form by mail or fax.  2) Select one of the following fee waiver options on the Princeton Supplement: Princeton-specific, ACT, College Board or NACAC. All lower-income students are eligible for the Princeton-specific fee waiver. Students named QuestBridge Finalists should select the QuestBridge fee waiver. If you use the Princeton-specific fee waiver, you do not need to get approval from your college counselor.

How do you decide who gets financial aid?

Financial aid is awarded based on need only. We use the information you supply on your financial aid application and supporting documents to determine how much support we will provide.

How does Princeton measure academic promise?

Please see COVID-19 Update for complete changes to the 2020-21 cycle.

We include many factors in our assessment, particularly a student’s secondary school program and record, as well as standardized test results, and teacher and counselor recommendations. All these components are taken into consideration when we evaluate a student’s high school performance. We value liveliness of mind, motivation, creativity, perseverance and independent thought. A prospective student’s intellectual curiosity and academic excellence are the most important factors in our decision.

How does Princeton protect the privacy of students’ personal information?

Consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Princeton’s general rule is not to disclose a student’s personal information to anyone outside the University—including government officials or law enforcement officers—without the student’s prior written consent. 

How does Princeton regard college courses taken during high school?

Taking college courses while you are a high school student indicates to us that you seek out academic challenges, but we do not expect students to have taken college courses before they apply. Applicants who have taken college courses are most often at high schools not offering many advanced courses such as advanced placement or International Baccalaureate.

How easy is it to change my concentration?

More than 70 percent of our undergraduates are majoring in fields different from those they indicated when they applied. Our engineering students declare their concentrations at the end of their first year, and all other students declare their concentrations at the end of sophomore year. Any changes are made in consultation with your assigned faculty academic adviser.

How far in advance should I complete my testing?

For those who choose to submit testing, we allow applicants to use the score choice feature of the SAT and accept only the highest composite score of the ACT, but we encourage the submission of all test scores. If you are applying Regular Decision, we encourage you to complete standardized testing by the December test date if possible.  Please review our application dates and deadlines .

How is academic preparation measured for nontraditional students?

We review all academic work completed during and since high school, including any postsecondary college coursework, even if some of that work took place many years ago. It is possible to be a highly competitive applicant even if your past work was not your best, including during high school or your earlier college work. If this is the case for you, we strongly recommend considering more recent college coursework to build a solid transitional foundation, ideally in courses similar to those offered at Princeton. We consider whether our applicants are prepared today, not whether that was the case several years ago.

How large are classes?

Approximately 75 percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, and only four percent of classes have more than 100 students.

How many courses does Princeton offer?

In the fall of 2020, 1650 courses were offered to Princeton students. Note that this number includes graduate courses, which are open to qualified undergraduates with departmental permission.  Please visit our complete course catalog .

How many students will be matched through Questbridge with Princeton?

We do not have a set number we plan to match with and much depends on the applicant pool itself. In the past, we have matched with a small number of students through College Match with the majority of QuestBridge admits coming in Regular Decision.

How many years do you need to be in an English-medium school to be exempt from an English Proficiency Test?

Students must be in an English-medium school for at least three of the four years of high school to be exempt from an English Proficiency Test.

How successful are Princeton students in gaining admission to graduate school or finding employment after graduation?

Our students go on to do extraordinarily well when pursuing graduate  or professional schools or employment after graduation. For the class of 2017, 93.8 percent of students achieved their post-graduation goals within six months of graduation. The Center for Career Development helps all students define a unique career and life vision, and then helps connect students with the resources and people that will enable them to make their visions a reality.

How will I know that the FAFSA has been submitted correctly?

You can check the status of your FAFSA online . You should allow one week for processing an online signature, and three weeks for processing a paper signature page.

I am a QuestBridge finalist. Can I apply using the Common Application and remove my QuestBridge application from consideration?

No. The Common Application is no longer a requirement for QuestBridge finalists. As such, if you choose to complete and submit one, we will not review it. Please note that QuestBridge finalists are required to submit the Princeton QuestBridge Supplement, which includes additional essays and short answer questions, along with a Graded Written Paper . 

I am not a U.S. citizen. May I apply to Princeton through the College Match program?

Yes. All students, regardless of citizenship status, may apply to Princeton through the College Match.

I graduated last year and don’t have a paper to submit. What should I do?

We encourage you to reach out to your teachers or school counselors to obtain a graded written paper from your last three years of secondary school. If you are unable to provide a graded written paper, we will still review your application, but we will have less information with which to review your file.

I have a number of papers I can submit but none have the actual grade on it. What should I do?

We encourage you to reach out to your teachers or school counselors to obtain a graded written paper from your last three years of secondary school. If the grade or comments are on a separate piece of paper, please attach this to your submission.  If there is no grade written on the paper, please speak to your teacher to ask them to attach, or attest to, the original grade.

I initially submitted my paper through turnitin.com. Will this disadvantage me?

I submitted my paper through google docs. my teacher’s comments/feedback and grade are on the document. how can i upload the document.

You can convert the Google document to a Word document with mark up, which will show your teacher’s comments.  Alternatively, you may also submit a screenshot of your graded written paper as long as the comments and grade are included.

I tried to upload my documents and received an invalid file type error; what do I do?

Please check to make sure that you have selected the appropriate file type from the “ Select the type of file(s) ” drop down menu. This menu is positioned in the Art Supplement File section.

If I am applying early, do I need to submit first quarter and trimester grades from my senior year in high school?

Yes, if possible, please ask your college counselor to submit any senior grades if your high school has them available.

If I applied under Early Action but I would like to be considered under Regular Decision, can I change my application? What about vice versa?

Please send us an email requesting the change. If possible, we will make the change and send you a confirmation. You do not need to submit a new application; your submitted materials will simply be reviewed on a different time-table.

If I apply Single Choice Early Action to Princeton, may I also apply to colleges outside of the United States?

Yes. You may apply to any international institution, as long as the decision is not binding.

If I apply Single-Choice Early Action to Princeton, may I apply early to an honors program at a public university?

Yes. You may apply early to a public college or university, including to a public institution's honor's program, as long as the decision is not binding.

If I apply Single-Choice Early Action to Princeton, may I apply for rolling admission to another college or university?

You may apply to any public, international or service academy that has a rolling admission process as long as the decision in not binding.

If I apply Single-Choice Early Action to Princeton, may I apply to another college’s early decision program?

No. If you apply Single-Choice Early Action to Princeton, you may not apply to another college’s early decision program.  

If I apply Single-Choice Early Action to Princeton, may I apply to another private college’s early action program (restrictive or not)?

No. If you apply Single-Choice Early Action to Princeton, you may not apply early to another private college at the same time — regardless of whether that program is restrictive or not.  

If I apply through the QuestBridge College Match program, but I’m not named a Finalist, what are my application options?

Please see COVID-19 Update for changes to the 2020-21 cycle.

Students who are not named QuestBridge finalists for the National College Match can apply to Princeton through Regular Decision. 

QuestBridge finalists who submitted the required materials but did not match with Princeton or another binding institution will automatically be considered in our Regular Decision process. These students will be notified of our decisions along with all other Regular Decision applicants. Princeton will make decisions available at the end of March or beginning of April. 

If I do not apply for aid my first year and my family circumstances change later, can I request aid after my first year?

Yes. Students can apply for aid at any point during their time at Princeton. An explanation of the change in circumstances may be required.

If I have taken the SAT/ACT, should I submit the test? Will you still consider it?

Yes. Though standardized tests results will not be required for fall entry 2023, 2024 and 2025, we still value these results and will evaluate them within the context of our holistic review. However, if you do not submit standardized testing, you will not be at a disadvantage.

If I qualify for aid, how much assistance will I receive?

At Princeton, we are committed to meeting 100 percent of the calculated need of each aid applicant based on an individual evaluation by a financial aid counselor. We make this determination using the information you provide on your financial aid application. Learn more about aid awards in the Undergraduate Financial Aid Information and Application Instructions, which is accessible through the Apply for Financial Aid page. You may also use the Princeton Financial Aid Estimator to see how much aid might be offered based on your particular situation.

If I take the required tests more than once, which results does Princeton consider?

Princeton will consider the highest individual section results across all sittings of the SAT and the highest composite score for the ACT. We will only accept a composite from an entire sitting of the ACT. We will not consider scores when a student retakes an individual section of the ACT.

If I was deferred, is there still a chance that I can be admitted?

Yes. If you are deferred, your application will automatically be rolled over into our regular decision process and considered again in the context of that pool. In recent years, a small number of applicants who were deferred have been subsequently admitted during the regular decision process.  

If I was deferred, what can I do to improve my chances of admission?

If you submitted all of the required components of your application, we have everything we need for consideration. If you have a significant update, you may add the new information to your file through the applicant portal or by email to [email protected] .

If I’m a Canadian citizen, do I have to file a FAFSA?

No. Only U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents can file a FAFSA.

If I’m a QuestBridge Finalist, but don’t match with Princeton, what are my application options?

If you ranked Princeton but didn’t match with Princeton, you will automatically be considered for Regular Decision unless you withdraw your application. If you match with a binding school, your application will not be considered in Regular Decision.

Is different weight given to different parts of the application?

No. We do not have a formula for weighting different parts of the application. While the transcript is the most important part of an application, we consider all of the components of each application and consider each applicant’s particular strengths.

Is housing guaranteed on campus?

Yes. On-campus housing is guaranteed all four years.

Is it easy to find a student job on or near campus?

Our Student Employment site is continuously updated with available jobs, making it easy for students to find employment opportunities both on and off campus.

Is it possible to get a receipt for the application fee?

If you paid the fee online, your e-mail confirmation is your receipt. If you paid by check, your cashed check (or image sent by your bank) is your receipt. We do not send any other acknowledgment of payment.

Is it possible to get to know my professors?

Absolutely. Princeton professors are easily accessible and happy to chat with students during weekly open office hours or during individual meetings with students. Our professors also take meals in Princeton’s residential dining halls and participate in other programs and special events.

Is it possible to transfer to Princeton from another college or university?

Yes. Read more information about our transfer admission process .

Is it true that eating clubs for juniors and seniors are too expensive for aid students to join?

The meal allowance included in the aid packages of juniors and seniors is based on the approximate average cost of an eating club board plan. This policy provides access to a variety of dining options for all aid students, including the eating clubs.

Is there a page or word limit?

No, but one to two pages is sufficient.

Is there an advantage to taking honors, advanced, Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses-even if it might be tougher to earn high grades?

Yes. We consider it a promising sign when students challenge themselves with advanced courses in high school. We understand that not all secondary schools offer the same range of advanced courses, but our strongest candidates have taken full advantage of the academic opportunities available to them in their high schools.

Is there an advantage to taking honors, advanced, Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses—even if it might be tougher to earn high grades?

Is there any other documentation a nontraditional student should submit (e.g. resume, employment records, etc.).

A resume is not required, but can be encouraged if you’ve had a nontraditional trajectory and the resume serves as a road map for the years of school and/or work since high school. Extensive detail is not required, as this can simply be a list of bullet points, accounting for all years We do not require employment or military records as proof of employment or service, but students are welcome to submit them if they prefer. All of these optional items can be sent in any “additional information” or similar section on the application, or sent afterward through the applicant portal or by email to [email protected] .

May high school juniors apply?

While we will consider applications from students who choose to leave high school early, they must be competitive with students who have completed rigorous, comprehensive course work through senior year. This option tends to be most realistic for students who have exhausted their high school’s academic offerings.

May I appeal my admission decision or ask to have the decision explained?

We cannot reconsider applications or offer individual explanations for our decisions. Most of our applicants are well qualified for Princeton. Since the admission staff must select a first-year class from an abundance of highly able and accomplished candidates, and since all applicants are compared to the entire applicant pool, it is extremely difficult to explain why any one student is refused.

May I apply for regular decision to Princeton if I have already been admitted to another college or university under a binding early decision plan?

No. When you apply to another college or university under a binding early decision plan, you have made a commitment to attend that college if admitted. We honor that commitment and do not consider applicants under those circumstances.

May I apply to another college under its regular decision plan before I receive Princeton’s decision on my Single-Choice Early Action decision?

Yes. You may apply in the fall to any institution under its regular decision program.

May I attend a class?

Our Office does not make arrangements for visiting a class. For information on how to formally audit a class, please visit:  https://community.princeton.edu/educational-opportunities .

May I submit additional information, such as a CV?

As one of your media uploads, we encourage you to include a resume if you think that will add to an understanding of your training and experiences. Please keep in mind, information you provide in the Optional Arts Supplement will only be read by the arts faculty evaluating your supplement unless you submit it as additional information along with your application to Princeton.

May I submit multiple Optional Arts Supplements?

You may only submit multiple Optional Arts Supplements as long as they are in different programs. For example, you can submit arts supplements for dance in performance and choreography, but you may not submit two performance arts supplements.

May I use score choice?

Applicants are welcome to use the Score Choice option for standardized test   score submission. Princeton will consider the highest individual section results across all sittings of the SAT Reasoning and the highest composite score for the ACT*. We encourage applicants to submit all official test scores as soon as they are available.

*We will only accept a composite from an entire sitting of the ACT. We will not consider scores when a student retakes an individual section of the ACT.

May I “double major” at Princeton?

No. Princeton does not offer double/triple majors or dual-degree programs.

May students who are admitted defer enrollment to another year?

Yes. Students who wish to take a year off from their studies may request to defer their enrollment for one year (and sometimes for an additional year). If you pursue this, you may not enroll full time in a degree program at another institution during the deferral period. In recent years, the activities of students taking a year off have included work, community service, travel, military service, arts training and religious studies. We recommend students request a deferral only after they decide to matriculate and before May 15. Deferral requests are not guaranteed and must be approved by the Office of Admission.

Must I live on campus?

All first-year students and sophomores are required to live in one of Princeton’s six residential colleges. First-years are assigned randomly to a residential college and to a room and roommate(s) by the residential college staff and Housing & Real Estate Services. For sophomore year, students select their own rooming groups and choose rooms in their residential college through a lottery. Juniors and seniors may live off campus if they wish, although houses and apartments in town are in short supply and rents are high. More than 98% of Princeton undergraduates live on campus. 

My grandparent attended Princeton. Does that mean I am a “legacy” applicant?

Though you are welcome to indicate on your application if another relative attended Princeton, you are considered a “legacy” applicant only if your mother, father, stepmother or stepfather attended Princeton.  

My parents are separated or divorced and my custodial parent has not remarried. Do they both need to submit financial information for my aid application?

Yes. Princeton requires both parents to provide financial information in most cases. Please review the Family and Household Status page for more information. 

My school has a dual-enrollment program with a local college and I have completed college courses through that program. Can I earn credit for those courses?

Although students are not eligible for credit for college courses taken through a dual-enrollment program, students may earn advanced placement (AP) for high scores on departmental placement tests offered by some Princeton departments.  Consult the reference table for AP credit .

Should a nontraditional student submit optional nonacademic letters of recommendation?

Optional means optional, so these are not required, and most students do not submit additional nonacademic recommendations. However, many nontraditional applicants do find it helpful to submit optional references from individuals who know them better than their required academic references, such as supervisors or colleagues from work or the military, who can speak to their character, work ethic and other personal qualities that they would bring to our campus

The paper I have is more than five pages (or more than 1000 words). May I submit it?

Please do your best to adhere to our Graded Written Paper guideline , which states that we will accept a paper or essay that is approximately five pages or 1,000 words.

To what extent are extracurricular activities considered in the application process?

In addition to academic qualifications, we are interested in the talents and interests you would bring to Princeton outside the classroom. We don't value one type of activity over another. Rather, we appreciate sustained commitment to the interests you have chosen to pursue. Some of the students we admit have one well-honed talent; others have participated in a range of activities. We take particular note of leadership and exceptional talents or accomplishments.

What advising and support services are available?

Academic and other advising resources are integrated into Princeton’s residential framework. Students are assigned a faculty academic adviser before arriving on campus in the fall of their first year, and each residential college has faculty fellows who take part in various components of residential college life. Each residential college also has a network of deans and directors who ensure that our students thrive both academically and personally. Beyond the residential colleges, there are numerous offices on campus that offer advising of all kinds. The Center for Career Development  offers career counseling. If you need help with any part of the writing process, our Writing Center will provide a free, one-on-one consultation with one of their trained Writing Fellows. University Health Services  provides comprehensive medical, health and wellness services to our students. The Undergraduate Financial Aid Office will help with any financial aid issues, and the McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning helps our students become more powerful, productive and independent learners. This is just a small sampling of all the resources Princeton has to offer.   

What are Princeton reunions?

Every year, Princeton Reunions weekend attracts almost 25,000 alumni, family and friends. Alumni come back to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones, engage intellectually with faculty panels, participate in community service projects and enjoy great music. The style, scope and fanfare of this yearly event is uniquely Princeton.

What are some other points of interest in the Princeton area?

The Princeton area, which has a population of approximately 30,000 residents, has tree-lined streets, speciality shops, restaurants, parks, and a friendly and safe atmosphere. Some local attractions include the Princeton Battlefield State Park, Princeton University Art Museum, Palmer Square, Princeton Cemetery, Drumthwacket (the governor's residence), Albert Einstein’s home, Morven Museum & Garden and Princeton Record Exchange. Farmlands, the Pine Barrens, the Jersey shore, the Appalachian Trail and even ski slopes can be visited without leaving New Jersey. Learn more.

What are the English Proficiency tests you accept?

We accept the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic) or the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic).

What are the graded written paper requirements for an international student?

The graded written paper must have been written in English, not translated from another language into English. More information is available on our international students page . 

What college coursework is considered in the admission process and for transfer credit?

Any college coursework will be evaluated in the admission process, whether in-person or online. Those that are most relevant are in subject matter similar to the courses offered at Princeton. Online courses can also be considered here, especially if they are taken in a synchronous setting, but are also valued in the admission process if they at least cover relevant material. The determination of whether they count for college credit is made by college deans and faculty during the transfer admission process only, and  you may not receive credit for all eligible courses.

What does it cost to attend Princeton for a year?

The cost of attendance at Princeton includes tuition, room, board, books and personal expenses. Review the most current cost of attendance .

What does Princeton look for in its applicants?

We review each application individually to get a sense of that student’s particular combination of strengths. We don't have a profile of the ideal applicant or the ideal class. In fact, one of Princeton’s greatest strengths is the variety of talents, personal qualities, experiences and points of view in each incoming class. There are some qualities we hope all Princeton students share: integrity, a deep interest in learning and a devotion to both academic and non-academic pursuits. Many students also bring distinctive academic and extracurricular talents and achievements. Beyond those fundamental qualities, we consider how each candidate might contribute to the community we will bring together for that year’s class.

What extracurricular activities should I pursue to make myself stand out? What if I have limited time to get involved in traditional activities between school and other responsibilities?

If you have the opportunity to pursue activities of value to you, such as clubs or programs within your college or greater community, we recommend getting involved in the areas of interest. However, these activities are not expected for students with high external responsibilities, such as full-time/part-time work and/or at home responsibilities. We encourage students to articulate these responsibilities on the application, as they are still valued as extracurricular commitments that speak to your time management alongside your academic work. In all cases, you can still indicate the potential areas of interest for involvement at Princeton on the application, even if you have not yet had the opportunity to pursue those areas.

What extracurricular opportunities are available?

There are more than 500 student-run organizations at Princeton, ranging from publications, dance, media, music, theater, service, religious organizations, and more. For the full list, visit the current list of student organizations on campus .

What file types and sizes do you accept?

We support media files as large as 5GB, but please be advised that larger files will take longer to upload from your Internet connection and may stall if you are on a wireless connection or one that cannot sustain a connection for the necessary period of time. We support the following file formats:

•  .3g2, .3gp, .avi, .m2v, .m4v, .mkv, .mov, .mpeg, .mpg, .mp4, .mxf, .webm, .wmv • .aac, .m4a, .mka, .mp3, .oga, .ogg, .wav
• .bmp, .gif, .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .tif, .tiff
• .doc, .docx, .odg, .odp, .odt, .pdf, .ppt, .pptx, .rtf, .wpd

You may also include external media from YouTube, Vimeo and SoundCloud.

What happens if it is raining during the tour?

The campus tour will occur rain or shine. If there is inclement weather or dangerous conditions, the tour guide will speak about Princeton from an indoor location.  

What happens to my admission/enrollment if I need to take time away due to either personal reasons or professional requirements (e.g. military service)?

Students who need to take leave after admission but before enrollment can request to defer your enrollment from the Admission Office, maintaining admission status but enrolling in a future year. Students who have already enrolled and need to take a leave of absence or reinstate admission must consult with their advisors through the Office of the Dean of the College for protocols on leave and readmission. Each year, a number of Princeton undergraduates interrupt their studies for a variety of reasons. Some students will choose to take a leave of absence to take care of a health issue, to pursue a professional or volunteer opportunity, to attend to family matters, to reconsider academic goals, or to meet military requirements. The  Time Away from Princeton  website is designed to help students navigate the leave-taking process, thrive during their time away, and plan for a successful re-entry into the Princeton campus community.

What happens to my potential financial aid award if I do not match with Princeton in the College Match process, but I'm admitted later in the Regular Decision process?

Students who match with Princeton and students admitted in Regular Decision receive the same consideration for financial aid. Princeton has a remarkable financial aid program. We are committed to need-based financial aid and meeting 100 percent of a student's demonstrated need.

What hotels are in the area?

The greater Princeton area has a wide variety of hotel, motel, inn, and bed and breakfast accommodations. A small number of inns are within walking distance of the University, with most a short drive away. The Princeton Regional Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau offers an  accommodations page on its website . As a service to the community, the Purchasing Department has negotiated special rates for University employees and campus visitors who stay at preferred hotels. Please visit the University Travel and Expense website to learn more. 

What if English is not my first language?

If English is not the primary language spoken in your home and you attend a school where English is not the language of instruction, you must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language ( TOEFL ), the International English Language Testing System Academic ( IELTS Academic ) or the Pearson Test of English Academic ( PTE Academic ).

What if I cannot take the SAT or ACT in my country?

Please see COVID-19 Update for complete changes to the 2022-23 cycle.

For the 2022-23 application cycle, Princeton will not require submission of standardized testing (SAT or ACT). Those who still wish to sit for standardized testing should do so by the October test date for Single-Choice Early Action and December date for Regular Decision., if possible. In our experience, scores from the October or December test date for test takers outside the United States will reach us in time. 

What if I do not have a college counselor at my school?

If your school does not have an adviser for students applying to university, please ask a school official — such as a principal, vice principal or dean — to complete your School Report available on the Common Application.

What if I do not have a paper from an English, social studies or history course?

Though we prefer the paper come from an English, social studies or history course, we understand that course offerings can vary greatly from school to school.  Applicants should submit a graded written paper that demonstrates their writing skills.

What if I win an outside scholarship?

Since Princeton meets students’ full need with grant aid, outside scholarships from private sources reduce Princeton grant dollar-for-dollar to make room for the outside scholarship in the award. Students can then use the amount of reduced scholarship toward the one-time purchase of a personal computer up to a preset amount by the Financial Aid Office. 

What if my country doesn’t have a tax return?

You should submit all documentation confirming income. Common documents include year-end wage statements and a letter from each employer stating annual income.

What if my file size exceeds the maximum limit?

File size limits vary by format (video, audio, PDFs). Please be sure to check your arts supplement type for file size guidelines. You may also include external media from YouTube, Vimeo and SoundCloud.

What if my parents are not required to file a federal income tax return?

If your parents are unemployed and filed taxes, they should submit their most recent tax return. If your parents did not file a return, you should submit all documentation of that year’s income, along with a parent non-filer statement, which can be found on the I ncome Documentation page.

What if my parents are unemployed or did not file a tax return?

If your parents are unemployed and filed taxes, they should submit their most recent tax return. If your parents did not file a return, you should submit all documentation of that year’s income, along with a parent non-filer statement. Please visit the Income Documentation page to download the nonfiler statement.

What if my school does not grade?

We encourage you to reach out to your teachers or school counselors to obtain official comments on your paper. If there is a grading rubric that explains how the written work is evaluated, please include it with your submission.

What if the supplemental material I would like to share does not exactly match the guidelines laid out by the department?

The Princeton University community is rich in many types of artistic talent, but our faculty can only provide evaluations of genres for which formal instruction is offered on campus. We encourage applicants to adhere as closely as possible to the submission guidelines.

What if what I would like to submit does not exactly match the guidelines laid out by the department for a form?

We encourage applicants to adhere as closely to the guidelines as possible, as that is what our faculty finds to be most helpful. However, we encourage you to submit the works that best highlight your talents. Most categories have a “miscellaneous” or “other” option if your work or works do not fall neatly into one subcategory.

What is a graded written paper?

A graded written paper refers to a paper written in the last three years of secondary school that was graded by a teacher.  For transfer applicants, a graded written paper may come from a course taken within the last two years of schooling.

What is a “liberal arts” education?

Princeton is a major research institution with the heart and soul of a liberal arts college. In this tradition, our faculty members encourage and challenge every student to explore the many academic opportunities available before settling on a concentration (major). Even after selecting a concentration, students may further chart their academic course in other areas of study, earning certificates in interdepartmental programs. Students also benefit from the interdisciplinary connections at the core of the Princeton curriculum.

What is Princeton’s Federal School Code for the FAFSA?

Princeton’s federal school code for the FAFSA is 002627.

What is Princeton’s graduation rate?

In recent years, approximately 90 percent of each entering class has graduated from Princeton within four years, and 97 percent of all undergraduates have received a degree from Princeton within six years.

What is the Federal Work-Study Program (FWSP)?

Federal Work-Study is a form of federal aid that pays student wages.

What is the QuestBridge National College Match Program?

The QuestBridge National College Match helps outstanding lower-income high school seniors gain admission and full four-year scholarships to some of the nation's most selective colleges. Princeton has been a proud QuestBridge partner for many years now and every year, we match with a small number of students through College Match. Beginning with the 2020-2021 admission cycle, Princeton has a binding decision for students matched with us through the National College Match.

What is the wait list?

Since we don't know until after May 1 how many students will accept our offer of admission, we invite a number of our applicants to stay on our wait list in the event we have remaining spaces in the first-year class. The list is unranked; if spaces become available, we will review the entire group of candidates on the wait list.

What kinds of funds will be included in my aid award?

If you receive financial aid, your award will normally include a Princeton grant, as well as any outside scholarships you earn. More information about these types of aid is available in the Undergraduate Financial Aid Information and Application Instructions, which can be found on Apply for Financial Aid .

What letters of recommendations are required?

We require two academic teacher recommendations, and request, but do not require, a letter from your school counselor, college adviser or another school official to accompany the School Report.

What percentage of faculty members teach undergraduates?

All faculty members are expected to teach, as well as engage in research. All lecture courses and seminars are led by tenure-track professors, visiting faculty members, or lecturers with a Ph.D., but never by graduate students. Faculty members work most closely with undergraduates in the supervision of junior-year independent work and senior theses.

What security measures are in place at Princeton?

The safety and security of all Princeton University faculty, staff, students, and visitors are important to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) . Our professional campus patrol officers, security officers, dispatchers and fire officials provide 24/7 year round safety services and emergency response to the campus. DPS provides many services that address the needs of faculty and staff including but not limited to: lockout services, victim services information, building access and event security, campus vehicle certification, RAD self-defense classes, and more.

What should a nontraditional student provide for a Graded Written Paper if they did not pursue a course in the past two years that fits the guidelines?

If you have not recent courses, the next best option is to consider anything written from a similar academic program, such as the Warrior-Scholar Project , even if this was not a for-credit course and/or no grade was provided. If you have no similar recent academic program, you may consider either requesting an assignment from an instructor, or writing an expository essay on a topic of your choice. It is also helpful if you can explain your circumstances and available options in the application.

What should I do if I cannot provide a high school transcript?

We ask that students do their best to request this material, but students will not be at a disadvantage if their school is not able or willing to provide a transcript. If you are unable to provide this material after requesting, you should indicate this in our application in the additional information section.

What should I do if I make a mistake on the FAFSA?

If you make a mistake on the FAFSA, you can log back into the FAFSA portal with your FSA ID and password and submit a correction.

What should I do if there is an emergency on campus?

If there is an emergency while you are visiting campus, please remain calm.  If necessary, use your cell phone or the nearest blue light phone to call 911 or the Department of Public Safety (DPS) emergency number, which is (609) 258-3333.  Our professional campus patrol officers, security officers, dispatchers and fire officials provide 24/7 year-round safety services and emergency response to the campus. The campus is equipped with loudspeakers so that emergency services can broadcast instructions if necessary.  

What should students know about visas?

After international students are admitted and matriculated to Princeton, the Davis International Center will provide additional information about applying for a student visa.

What sort of study abroad programs are available?

Our Office of International Programs hosts a wide range of opportunities year-round. You may study abroad for a semester or a school year, participate in international internships in approximately 60 countries, or participate in one of our Global Seminars . You may also join the Novogratz Bridge Year Program , a tuition-free service gap year, in which you delay your first academic year to engage in service abroad.

What tests do I need to take to earn advanced placement?

When determining advanced placement, we typically use one or more of the following: 1) AP tests 2) International Baccalaureate (IB) higher level exams 3) British A-Level exams, if available. For more information about required tests and minimum scores, consult the  Reference Table for AP Credit .

What transcripts and school reports should a nontraditional student submit?

We require all students to submit all transcripts from high school and (if applicable) all transcripts from college and postsecondary work. The greatest emphasis in admission review will be on your most recent work; older work performance will not factor in negatively if it was not as strong. However, we still require these records so we can see the full overall academic picture of your trajectory. School reports should be sent by the most recent institution you attended.

What will my room look like?

There are various configurations for group and individual living. The University provides each resident with a desk, chair, bookcase, dresser, and bed.

What year(s) should the paper come from?

For first-year admission, the graded written paper should come from the last three years of secondary school (including your senior or final year). For transfer admission, the graded written paper should come from the last two years of schooling.

When are applications due?

Jan. 1 is our submission deadline for regular decision. Nov. 1 is our submission deadline for restricted early action.  View all important application dates and deadlines.

When will I know how much AP credit I will receive?

At the beginning of the fall term of their first year, students receive a report of all the AP units they have been granted. Later in the term, they receive a second report reflecting any scores that have since been received.

When will I know if I will receive financial aid?

If you are admitted to Princeton and have applied for aid, you will receive a financial aid award along with your offer of admission.

Where are the most conveniently located public restrooms?

Two single stall/gender-inclusive restrooms are located on first floor of the University Store at 36 University Place, and two single stall/gender-inclusive restrooms are located on first floor of the Admission Information Center, also located at 36 University Place. All restrooms are also equipped with a baby-changing station. Most restaurants and coffee shops in town also have public restrooms which are open to customers.

Where should I park?

If you are registered to attend an Admission Information Session and/or campus tour, you will receive detailed parking instructions with your registration confirmation email, including a link to register for our visitor parking lot, located near our Admission Information Center. General visitors to campus who are not registered for an Admission program may park in the Stadium Drive Garage off Faculty Rd.

Where will I take my meals?

First-year students and sophomores live and eat in dining facilities within their residential colleges. Juniors and seniors can take meals at the colleges, eating clubs, student food cooperatives, and other locations. Any student may eat kosher meals at the Center for Jewish Life (CJL) or have kosher meals delivered to any other campus dining hall. All residential college dining halls offer halal dining options for students.

Who is eligible for an application fee waiver?

You may request a fee waiver if you are from a lower-income background, or if the application fee is a hardship for your family, and you are applying for financial aid. Please note that applying for a fee waiver will not disadvantage your application in any way. You may learn more about fee waivers on our Application Checklist.

Who is required to submit an English Proficiency Test?

If English is not the primary language spoken in your home and you attend a school where English is not the language of instruction, you must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic) or the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic).

Who should I contact if I have questions about my arts supplement?

If you have questions about your Optional Arts Supplement, you may contact us at [email protected] or phone 609-258-3060.

Who should write my academic letters of recommendation?

If you are currently enrolled in college coursework, either full-time or part-time, you should submit at least two academic recommendations from within the past 2-3 years, ideally in courses similar to those offered at Princeton , such as those listed in our General Education Requirements . In-person courses are preferred, but if your only options are from online courses and/or courses of a different nature, then you can submit letters from these courses instead. Recommendations from rigorous academic workshops, such as the Warrior-Scholar Project , are also welcome substitutes. If you have no recent academic coursework from which you can submit recommendations, you can either submit the most recent recommendations you do have, or choose non-academic references, ideally from individuals who can speak to your intellectual potential.

Why do you require the writing/essay portion of the SAT and ACT?

Writing is an essential component of a Princeton education. Evidence-based reading and writing are critical tools in a college-level curriculum and the results of a writing exam are helpful in determining a student’s grasp of these concepts.

Why is there a fee to submit an Optional Arts Supplement?

There is no fee to submit an Optional Arts Supplement.

Why was my application deferred?

Many strong applicants are deferred and reconsidered in context of the regular decision pool, with the additional information provided by mid-year grades. There is no advantage to apply early action to Princeton and competition for early admission to Princeton is especially rigorous.

Will alumni be available to interview me if I apply for early action?

In many cases, alumni will be available to interview early action applicants. If an interview cannot be scheduled for logistical reasons, you will not be at a disadvantage; alumni interviews are an optional piece of Princeton’s application process.

Will applying for aid hurt my chance of being admitted to Princeton?

No. There is no disadvantage whatsoever in the admission process for financial aid applicants. Princeton has a need-blind admission policy, ensuring equality of opportunity for students who cannot afford the full cost of attendance. This policy covers all admission applicants, including international students. 

Will Campus Dining meet my dietary restrictions?

There are food options for all types of interests and dietary restrictions. If you have a food allergy , there are signs posted on all of the menu items indicating what the food may contain (gluten, nuts, etc.). The Center for Jewish Life offers kosher meals for the entire campus community, and all residential college dining halls offer halal dining options for students.

Will college-credit courses taken in high school transfer to Princeton?

Princeton does not offer credit toward degree requirements for college or university courses taken before you enroll. However, you can take AP exams or placement exams offered by some academic departments at Princeton to demonstrate your knowledge in a subject, which may permit you to skip the introductory-level course in that area. You can find detailed information about Princeton’s AP policy in our undergraduate course catalog .

Will I be able to see the inside of a dorm on my tour?

No. For the safety of our current students, and because no single dorm is representative of the many housing options available at Princeton, the campus tour does not showcase a dorm room.  

Will I be required to take out loans?

In 2001, Princeton eliminated student loans from financial aid awards, replacing them with grants that do not need to be repaid. Since then, no Princeton student has been required to borrow as part of a basic aid package. 

Will I receive the same amount of financial aid every year?

It is our policy to meet every student’s full demonstrated need each year. Award amounts may vary from year to year, based on changes in a family's financial circumstances and Princeton's cost of attendance.

Will my choice in course of study affect my chance for admission?

On the application we ask you to indicate the degree program (A.B., B.S.E. or undecided) and the departments that most interest you. These choices don't affect your chances for admission, nor do they commit you to a particular course of study. We look closely at the math and science background of students interested in the B.S.E. program, and we consider every applicant’s abilities across the academic subjects. Princeton engineering students choose a field of concentration (major) after one year and liberal-arts students after two years. More than 70 percent of our undergraduates are majoring in fields different from those they indicated when they applied.

Will Princeton require the optional essay on the new SAT?

Yes. The Optional Essay of the new SAT is required for our application.

Graduate Admission

Application deadline:  december 15, required application materials:.

• Electronic application
• Statement of Academic Purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• Transcript(s) - One transcript from every college/university from which you have earned, or expect to earn a degree, must be uploaded with your electronic application. The Graduate School does not accept mailed transcripts. The transcript you obtain does NOT have to be official.
• English language proficiency:  TOEFL/IELTS

Note: GREs, both general and subject test scores, will  not  be accepted for Fall 2024 admissions.

Program Length: Four years; however, a fifth year is usually granted if approved in advance.

If your interest is in applied and computational mathematics, you must apply directly to the Program in Applied and Computational Mathematics (PACM).

Chenyang Xu

Jill leclair, general information.

Graduate School Admissions

For International Students

Princeton welcomes applications from students around the world. Information for international students applying for undergraduate degrees are available on the Office of Undergraduate Admission website . International students considering applying to a master's or Ph.D. degree program can learn more on the Graduate School website .

Princeton considers U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens alike in the admission and financial process. In fact, Princeton is one of only a handful of schools in the country that do not limit financial aid for international undergraduates, treating international and U.S. students the same in the financial aid process.

Undergraduate Applicants

The Office of Undergraduate Admission reviews all applications in the same manner, regardless of citizenship or country of residence. For undergraduate admission, you apply to Princeton and not to a particular department or school. More information for international students is available on the undergraduate admission website .

Financial Aid

The full need of all admitted international students is met the same as it is for students from the United States. Your family's ability to pay for your university education is not a factor in our admission decision. Our financial aid program is entirely based on need. Princeton does not offer academic or athletic merit scholarships.

English Proficiency

If English is not your native language and you are attending a school where English is not the language of instruction, you must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic) or the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), in addition to the SAT or ACT.

Application and Test Requirements

We encourage you to visit the Office of Undergraduate Admission website for a helpful application checklist for undergraduates, as well as information about standardized test requirements and deadlines.

• Information for International Undergraduate Applicants
• Undergraduate Application Checklist
• Testing Requirements for Undergraduate Applicants
• Financial Aid for Undergraduates

Graduate Applicants

Students from around the world are encouraged to apply for graduate admission to Princeton. More than 40 percent of Graduate School students are citizens of other countries. The application to a master's or Ph.D. program is the same for U.S. citizens, permanent residents or international applicants. More information about graduate admission is available on the Graduate School website .

Admission Process

Graduate admission decisions at Princeton are made by faculty in your proposed field of study. The Graduate School coordinates the admission process and establishes minimum requirements for admission. You can learn more about the application process on the Graduate School website .

English Language Tests

Graduate students must demonstrate a level of oral proficiency in the English language sufficient to participate successfully in all the activities that comprise a graduate education, including classwork, research, presentations, project teamwork and the teaching of undergraduates. You can learn more about the Graduate School's English Language Proficiency Policy and get answers to your questions about English language testing for graduate admission.

Costs and Funding

Princeton guarantees funding for its regularly enrolled, degree-seeking Ph.D. candidates for all years of regular program enrollment, contingent upon satisfactory academic performance. The funding for master's candidates varies by department.

• Graduate Admission Process
• Admission and Onboarding
• English Requirements for Graduate Students
• Costs and Funding for Graduate Students

Resources for International Students

If you are admitted to Princeton, you can take advantage of the many resources on campus that support international undergraduate and graduate students. During your first days of campus, you also will participate in an orientation program to welcome you to the United States and the University.

The Davis International Center helps international students with all aspects of the visa process in order to study Princeton. You can learn more about obtaining and maintaining a visa on the Davis International Center's website .

English Language and Other Resources

Once on campus, you can participate in a variety of social, cultural and adjustment programs that focus on enhancing the well-being of international students, scholars and their families. The Davis International Center and McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning also offer  English language classes and tutoring . 

Davis International Center

The Davis International Center offers specialized support for international students and scholars to help you adjust to your life at Princeton. Dedicated advisers can assist you with questions about your immigration status and your practical adjustment to the United States. You will have an opportunity to develop social connections and gather information that will help you as you settle into the U.S. culture.