Brown Video Introduction: A Complete Guide

If you’re applying to Brown University, you know getting in is tough. You’re competing with nearly 50,000 other students who want that letter of acceptance just as much as you do. And with just a 5.2% acceptance rate, every part of your application matters—including the optional parts.

One of those is the Brown video introduction. It’s a short, two-minute video where you get to speak directly to the admissions team. While your GPA and test scores carry the most weight, a strong video could give your application the boost it needs. Keep reading to learn how to create a compelling video introduction that helps you stand out.

• What Is the Brown Video Introduction?
• How to Make a Standout Brown Video Introduction
• Technical Considerations When Creating Your Video
• Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Video
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is the Brown Video Introduction?

The Brown video introduction is a short, optional video where you introduce yourself to the admissions team. You have up to two minutes to share your personality, interests, and anything else that doesn’t fit on your main application.

Brown replaced alumni interviews with this video format to give you more control over how you’re represented. It’s your chance to speak in your own voice and show them why you’re interested in attending Brown.

Now, there’s no fixed structure. You can talk about your day-to-day life, something you care about, or even connect your experience to a book or movie you love. The goal is to be real and specific.

Here are a few important things to remember:

• The video is optional. However, Brown encourages you to submit one when possible.
• The video should be no longer than two minutes. Brown says two minutes is enough to make your introduction clear and compelling without going overboard.
• You submit it through the Brown applicant portal. Once logged in, you’ll find the upload link in the sidebar. You can preview your video before submitting it.
• You won’t be judged on production quality. Clear audio and video are essential, but editing skills aren’t. What matters is what you say and how you say it.

The bottom line? Don’t think of the video introduction as just another requirement but an opportunity. Admissions officers watch it to better understand who you are beyond your grades and test scores. This is your chance to show your curiosity, personality, and unique perspective.

Remember, Brown looks for applicants who are intellectually curious, academically strong, and engaged in their communities. With such a competitive admissions process, your video introduction can be a powerful way to show how you align with what Brown values.

Video introduction prompts

There are no required topics or formats for your video. However, Brown does offer suggested prompts you can choose to use, including:

• What do you love about your neighborhood or hometown?
• Share a time that you were moved by music or art.
• How would your friends describe you?
• Describe how you were influenced by a book that changed your perspective.
• Talk to us about a meaningful family activity or tradition.
• In what ways are you similar to or different from your siblings or friend group?
• Tell us about your favorite time of day.
• Highlight any topic of your choice that will allow us to get to know you better.

The purpose of the video introduction is to add depth to your application. There’s no “wrong” way to approach it, but what you share will influence how you’re viewed. Be authentic, keep it concise, and focus on the qualities you want the admissions team to remember.

How to submit your video introduction

After you submit your application to Brown, you’ll get access to the Brown Applicant Portal. There, you’ll find the option to upload your video introduction. While you won’t be able to upload your video until you receive access to the portal, it’s a good idea to record it ahead of the deadline.

To be considered, you must upload your video by November 4 for QuestBridge and Early Decision applicants and by January 6 for Regular Decision applicants. The upload option will still appear on your portal after the deadline, but late videos will not be reviewed.

How to Make a Standout Brown Video Introduction

While the video introduction is only two minutes and has no formal topic or format, that doesn’t mean you can put minimal thought into it. Here’s how to prepare and make a memorable Brown introduction video:

1. Start early.

Creating a strong video takes time and planning. If you want to include childhood clips, photos from activities, or footage from different parts of your life, you may need a few days (or even weeks!) to gather everything. You might also need help from friends or family to track down the best material.

Writing a script in advance helps you use the two-minute limit effectively. Treat the video introduction with the same effort you’d give your supplemental essays. Expect to go through a few drafts before you’re satisfied with the results.

2. Follow the instructions.

Your video should be no longer than two minutes and start with a simple intro: “Hi, my name is (your name) from (your high school).” After that, you can choose any content you want to share. Brown also recommends filming in landscape orientation since admissions officers will watch the videos on desktop screens.

3. Highlight your unique selling points.

Focus on sharing qualities and interests that haven’t already been covered in your personal statement or supplemental essays. Brown encourages you to “tell us more about yourself beyond the information you provided in your application.” So, if you’ve already written about your nonprofit work or summer research, avoid repeating the same topics unless you add something new or deeper.

Instead, think about what else makes you stand out. Do you have unusual hobbies like coin collecting or bird watching? Is there something about your background or personality that could give admissions officers a better sense of who you are? Maybe you’ve spent weekends helping at your family’s small business or taught yourself a new language just for fun.

By reflecting on these questions, you can create a video that shows a different side of you beyond what’s already stated in your written application.

4. Answer the question “Why Brown?”

Brown also describes the introduction video as a helpful way to understand why you’re interested in the university. So, don’t just talk about yourself but show how you see yourself contributing to campus life as a first-year student.

For example, some previous applicants have identified clubs they want to join and edited themselves into group photos of current members. Others have researched specific labs and explained how they’d contribute based on their interests. Look for ways to add a personal, school-specific touch highlighting your enthusiasm for Brown.

5. Formatting is important!

Brown doesn’t expect a James Cameron or Cristopher Nolan-level production, but they do expect that you put some effort and thought into your video. For instance, talking at your desk might not leave much of an impression, so try adding photos, clips, or scenes from places dear to you to make it more engaging.

Filming on your phone (in landscape mode) is also acceptable as long as the lighting and sound quality are clear enough. If you’re concerned about audio quality, consider adding captions. While Brown won’t judge your video on technical quality, delivering your message in a dynamic way can make your video memorable to viewers.

Technical Considerations When Creating Your Video

Even though content matters most, poor audio or video quality can distract from your message. Keep these technical details in mind to make sure your Brown introduction video is clear and easy to follow.

• Device choice. Use a phone, computer, laptop, or camera that can record in landscape mode. This format works best with Brown’s submission system.
• Stable setup. Avoid holding your device while filming. Place it on a stable surface or use a tripod to keep the video steady.
• Sound quality. Choose a quiet space to record yourself. If available, use an external mic to improve audio clarity.
• Lighting. Make sure your face is well-lit. Natural light or a desk lamp can help avoid shadows and create an even look.

Taking care of these technical details will help you record and submit your Brown video introduction smoothly and without issues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Video

Even strong applicants can miss the mark by making avoidable mistakes in their video introductions. Here are a few common ones to watch out for:

1. Sounding too formal or rehearsed

Admissions officers aren’t expecting a speech. If you come across stiff or overly polished, it can feel impersonal. Speak naturally, as if you’re having a thoughtful conversation with a friend. Remember, you want to come off as approachable, not robotic.

2. Trying too hard to impress

Make sure to express who you really are in your introduction video. Don’t overload it with achievements or scripted lines to try to craft a “perfect” image! Brown has already said they want to see your personality and interests, so show them a part of you that’s not easily seen in your main college application.

3. Dressing too casually

Brown recommends you dress casually, as you would for a typical school day or a school event. You don’t need to wear a suit, but you also want to avoid overly relaxed outfits like sleepwear or athleisure (obviously).

Remember: what you wear sends a message, even in a short video. Choose something neat that reflects your personality and shows you’re taking the video introduction seriously.

4. Poor body language

Just because it’s a video doesn’t mean the details don’t matter. Slouching, avoiding eye contact, or speaking too fast can make you seem disengaged or nervous.

Practice sitting up straight, looking directly into the camera, and speaking at a steady pace. Use natural gestures, and don’t forget to smile!

5. Ignoring the time limit

If you submit a video longer than two minutes, you might come across as careless or don’t know how to follow instructions. Keep in mind that admissions officers review thousands of applications, so respect their time by keeping your message clear and within the limit. Trust me, a focused, well-timed video leaves a better impression than one that drags on.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Brown introduction video for?

A Brown introduction video is a short, two-minute video that acts as your virtual college interview. It gives you a chance to share with admissions officers your personality, interests, and other details that don’t appear in the rest of your application.

2. Is it required to submit a video introduction for Brown?

No, the Brown video introduction is optional. However, it’s encouraged. A well-made video gives admissions officers a more personal view of who you are and allows them to hear directly from you in your own voice. If you choose not to submit one, your application will still be reviewed thoroughly based on the materials you provide.

3. How long are Brown videos?

Brown introduction videos should be no longer than two minutes. The Ivy League school has set this time limit to keep things fair for all applicants and to keep your message focused and concise. Two minutes is enough to share something meaningful about yourself without going off track.

Takeaways

• The Brown video introduction is an optional, two-minute video that lets you speak directly to the admissions team. It’s your chance to show who you are beyond what’s in your written application.
• The video introduction is optional, but submitting one is highly encouraged. Brown’s admissions process is very competitive, and a strong video could help you stand out.
• While your video won’t be judged on production quality, it should be authentic, well-prepared, and reflect who you are as a future Brown student.
• Avoid common mistakes when creating your video, such as sounding too formal, trying too hard to impress, using poor body language, or ignoring the two-minute time limit.
• Need help with your Brown video introduction? A private admissions consultant can guide you in crafting a strong video and polishing your entire Brown application.