As one of the oldest and most esteemed Ivy League schools, Princeton’s acceptance rate is famously low, at less than 4%. Let’s take a look at historical trends and insights behind Princeton’s highly competitive admissions.
What Is Princeton’s Acceptance Rate?
Princeton’s acceptance rate signifies fierce competition among a global pool of applicants and reflects the university’s prestige and high standards. This figure changes yearly, influenced by demographic trends, economic factors, and the university’s focus on diversity and interdisciplinary studies.
So, what is Princeton’s acceptance rate? For the Class of 2025, Princeton reported an acceptance rate of just 3.98%, in line with its Ivy League peers. Detailed demographics of the admitted cohort, including SAT scores and geographic distribution, were also released alongside the total number of applications received.
But in a break with tradition, starting with the Class of 2026, Princeton did not release its usual admissions statistics. These include its acceptance rate and figures from both regular decision and early admissions applicants.
For the Class of 2027, on other hand, the university only shared the total enrollment figure of 1,366 first-time, first-year students. This provides us with a basic idea of the class size but withholds detailed admissions data.
Princeton Single Choice Early Action and Regular Decision Acceptance Rates
Princeton offers two admission programs for first-year applicants, with separate acceptance rates: Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA) and Regular Decision (RD). The SCEA program is non-binding, meaning accepted applicants are not obligated to attend. However, it restricts applicants from applying to other private colleges or universities during the early action round. The Regular Decision program, with a later application deadline, is non-restrictive.
Princeton’s acceptance rates for SCEA and RD for the last five years are as follows:
| Class | Princeton Single-Choice Early Action Acceptance Rate | Princeton Regular Decision Acceptance Rate |
| 2027 | Withheld | Withheld |
| 2026 | No SCEA | Withheld |
| 2025 | No SCEA | 3.98% |
| 2024 | 15.82% | 3.71% |
| 2023 | 13.93% | 4.19% |
Princeton Acceptance Rate Trends
Over the last decade, Princeton has seen a significant increase in applications, making its admission process more competitive. Applications rose from over 26,000 for the class of 2018 to over 37,000 for the class of 2025. In turn, this surge has tightened Princeton’s acceptance rate, which dropped from 7 percent to just under 4 percent over ten years.
Let’s go over the Princeton acceptance rate trends over the last 10 years:
| Class | Total Number of Applications | Overall Princeton Acceptance Rate |
| 2027 | Withheld | Withheld |
| 2026 | Withheld | Withheld |
| 2025 | 37,601 | 3.98% |
| 2024 | 32,836 | 5.55% |
| 2023 | 32,804 | 5.78% |
| 2022 | 35,370 | 5.49% |
| 2021 | 31,056 | 6.09% |
| 2020 | 29,303 | 6.46% |
| 2019 | 27,290 | 6.99% |
| 2018 | 26,641 | 7.28% |
Princeton Accepted Students Composition
Princeton University, known for its competitive acceptance rate, has welcomed a new class that reflects its high standards and inclusive ethos:
- Geographic Diversity: The Class of 2027 at Princeton boasts a diverse group of students from across the United States, including Washington, D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico. Internationally, this class includes students from 64 countries, such as Afghanistan, Guatemala, Hungary, New Zealand, Portugal, and Zimbabwe.
- Gender Balance: The gender ratio is balanced, with 51% female and 49% male students.
- Socioeconomic Inclusivity: Princeton’s commitment to inclusivity is evident with 17% of students being the first in their families to attend college, and 13% being legacy students.
- Financial Support: Financial aid is significant, with 66% of the class receiving aid and 22% qualifying for federal Pell Grants for lower-income students.
Now, let’s explore the varied educational and cultural backgrounds of Princeton’s Class of 2027:
Type of secondary school
| Type of School | Percentage |
| Public | 60 |
| Independent Day | 17 |
| Religiously Affiliated | 13 |
| Non-U.S. Schools | 14 |
| Independent Boarding | 9 |
| Home-schooled | < 1 |
| Military | < 1 |
Class diversity
| Group | Percentage |
| Asian American | 26 |
| International Citizens | 14 |
| Black or African American | 9 |
| Hispanic or Latino/a/x | 10 |
| Multiracial | 7 |
| Native American, Hawaiian American, or Pacific Islander | < 1 |
The Class of 2027 is a great example of Princeton’s commitment to building a diverse, academically excellent, and inclusive student body. This class reflects a world that values inclusiveness, intellectual growth, and a broad perspective.
Princeton Application Requirements
To apply to Princeton, you can use the Common Application or Coalition Application. While these platforms make the process easier, the requirements are demanding.
Aside from considering Princeton’s selective acceptance rate, here’s what you need for a complete application:
- Complete application (Common Application or Coalition Application)
- Princeton-specific Questions (through the Common Application or Coalition Application)
- Application fee or fee waiver request
- Graded written paper (preferably English or History)
- Official transcript from your school counselor or school official
- School report (SR form available from the Coalition Application or Common Application)
- Counselor recommendation
- Two teacher recommendations (from teachers in advanced-level classes like AP, IB, or A-Levels, across two separate core academic disciplines such as English, language, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or math)
- Mid-year school report
- Two SAT subject tests (recommended)
- TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores (required for non-native English speakers in non-English instruction institutions)
Optional application components:
- Arts supplement (if applicable)
- Princeton alumni interview
- SAT or ACT test scores
Princeton has adopted a test-optional policy for recent admissions cycles, but submitting high SAT or ACT scores can still strengthen your application if they fall within or above the school’s historically high middle 50% range.
Beyond academics, Princeton looks for students who demonstrate exceptional personal qualities, extracurricular achievements, and potential to contribute to the campus community. It’s not just about being a stellar student; it’s about being an engaged and proactive individual.
Princeton Application Deadlines
To successfully navigate the admissions process, it’s essential to adhere to Princeton’s deadlines. The Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA) deadline is usually in early November, with admissions decisions released by mid-December, perfect for those who consider Princeton their top choice. For Regular Decision, the deadline extends to early January, with notifications by late March. Take note: each of Princeton’s application route has a unique acceptance rate.
Here’s a closer look at the Princeton application deadlines:
Single-Choice Early Action deadlines
- Application opens – Mid-August
- SAT/ACT test – The last month to take the ACT and SAT is in October for Single-choice Early Action applicants
- Application deadline – November 1
- Optional Arts Supplement deadline – November 6
- Financial aid application due – November 9
Regular Decision deadlines
- Application opens – Mid-August
- Application deadline – January 1
- Optional Arts Supplement deadline – January 8
- SAT/ACT test – Regular decision applicants must take SAT/ACT by the December test date
- Financial aid application due – February 1
Decision notification
Single-Choice Early Action candidates receive the admission decision by mid-December. Meanwhile, Regular Decision applicants are notified by late March. For both application routes, you must send your reply to the university by May 1st.
Generally, Princeton’s SCEA applicants enjoy a higher acceptance rate compared to RD applicants.
Princeton Tuition for 2023-2024
When considering attending Princeton University, it’s important to understand the financial commitment for the 2023-2024 academic year. Here’s a breakdown of the tuition and other costs:
- Tuition: $59,710
- Housing: $11,400
- Food: $7,980
- Estimated miscellaneous expenses: $4,050
Housing and meal plan costs correspond to the standard offerings in university dormitories and dining services. The miscellaneous expenses include fees for student activities and class dues. Of the $4,050 allocated for books and personal items, $250 is billed directly along with tuition, room, and board.
For those eligible for financial aid, any awarded amounts will be applied to reduce the overall university bill. Any remaining balance can be paid by the student or their family, either in full each semester or through a monthly payment plan.
Additional costs
- Travel Expenses: These can vary from $300 to $5,000 depending on individual circumstances.
- Student Health Plan: Students without family health insurance are required to enroll in the Student Health Plan, which costs about $3,150.
Princeton Scholarships
Princeton is known for its generous financial aid offerings, extending support to both domestic and international students. The admissions process is need-blind, ensuring that applicants seeking financial aid are not disadvantaged, fostering a diverse and inclusive student body.
In the 2022-2023 academic year, over half the student population (66%) received financial aid, with the average grant for the incoming class around $70,000. Princeton covers full tuition, room, and board for students from families earning up to $65,000, a benefit that will extend to families making up to $100,000 starting in the fall of 2023.
Princeton’s financial aid comes in the form of grants, which do not need to be repaid. The university was one of the first to eliminate loans from its financial aid packages, helping 83% of its recent graduates to finish school debt-free.
International students are treated the same as U.S. students in terms of financial aid, with their full financial needs being met. This policy ensures that a student’s ability to pay does not affect their chances of admission or the quality of their education at Princeton. Meaning, applying to a scholarship at Princeton doesn’t affect your rate of acceptance.
Princeton’s commitment to financial aid underscores its dedication to making a top-tier education accessible to all qualified students, regardless of their financial situation.
What Are the Best Majors at Princeton?
While “best” is subjective and depends on your interests and career goals, some majors at Princeton are particularly well-regarded. Princeton offers 37 undergraduate concentrations across four main areas: humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. This diverse array of options allows you to tailor your education to your interests and aspirations.
Princeton is renowned for several strong programs, including:
- Public and International Affairs: Known for the Woodrow Wilson School, this program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on experiences.
- Engineering: Highly ranked for its innovative research and comprehensive curriculum.
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences: Recognized for its cutting-edge research and excellent faculty.
- Computer Science: Consistently ranked among the top in the nation for its robust curriculum and research opportunities.
Princeton also excels in the humanities and social sciences, offering standout programs in:
- History: Known for its comprehensive curriculum and research opportunities.
- English: Renowned for its distinguished faculty and diverse course offerings.
- Economics: Highly respected for its rigorous academic standards and research output.
Princeton’s commitment to interdisciplinary education and in-depth scholarship is evident in its unique programs and emphasis on independent work. Every undergraduate completes a senior thesis or project, reflecting the university’s dedication to fostering in-depth research and scholarship.
With its broad array of majors and strong emphasis on research and independent study, Princeton provides an exceptional academic environment tailored to diverse interests and career goals.
What Is Princeton Student Life Like?
Because of its competitive acceptance rate, Princeton University is an environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, a sense of community, and the development of leadership skills. Student life at Princeton is as vibrant and diverse as its student body, extending far beyond the classroom walls.
Academics at Princeton
Princeton’s academic ethos is built around a commitment to excellence. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge their understanding and expand their horizons. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1 and about 74% of classes having fewer than 20 students, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and close interaction with distinguished scholars.
Classes at Princeton are known for intense discussions, innovative research opportunities, and the development of critical thinking skills. The academic calendar includes a ‘reading period’ before final exams, allowing you to deeply engage with your studies without the pressure of classes.
Extracurriculars at Princeton
Beyond academics, Princeton’s extracurricular scene is vibrant with student-led initiatives, clubs, and organizations catering to a wide range of interests and passions. With over 500 student organizations, you’ll find numerous opportunities for engagement, whether in performing arts, cultural associations, athletic teams, or special interest groups like environmental clubs, political organizations, and volunteer services.
In athletics, Princeton competes in the NCAA Division I Ivy League, fielding teams in 38 intercollegiate sports. From baseball and cross country to football, hockey, lacrosse, squash, and golf, Princeton showcases a commitment to excellence and sportsmanship across all arenas.
Life at Princeton is rich with opportunities to explore your interests, develop new skills, and build lasting relationships, making it a truly unique and enriching experience.
Princeton Notable Alumni
Princeton has an impressive alumni network with leaders from all kinds of fields. Some famous alumni include former U.S. Presidents Woodrow Wilson and James Madison, Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, and the brilliant mathematician and computer scientist Alan Turing.
In the arts, you’ve got Academy Award-winning actor and director Jimmy Stewart. The business world isn’t left out either, with big names like former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
These Princeton alumni inspire current students to aim high and work hard to make their own mark on the world.
Conclusion
Life at Princeton is a mix of tough academics, personal growth opportunities, and a springboard for future success. It’s a place where old traditions meet new ideas, preparing students for their careers and for making a difference globally.
When it comes to admissions, Princeton is known for its highly selective acceptance rate. It has been dropping over the years, showing just how competitive it is to get in. Future applicants need to make sure every part of their application stands out, from academics to personal interests.
FAQs
How hard is it to get into Princeton?
Getting into Princeton University is a dream for many but a reality for few. Known for its academic rigor, historic campus, and highly selective admissions process, Princeton is one of the most challenging Ivy League schools to gain admission to.
For the Class of 2025, Princeton received 37,601 applications and offered admission to only 1,498 students. This results in Princeton’s acceptance rate being just 3.98%, reflecting the highly competitive nature of the selection process.
What GPA is needed to get into Princeton?
In general, you need to be at the top of your class with a GPA of at least 3.9. This means straight A’s in all your classes. You also need to take plenty of IB and AP classes to show that you are excellent with academic challenges.
It can be difficult to change your GPA if you are already a senior or a junior. However, you can ensure a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate for a lower GPA. This will help the admission board at Princeton University understand that you are ready to tackle college academics. This will also give you a better chance to compete with other applicants.
What SAT/ACT score is needed to get into Princeton?
For the Class of 2026, admitted students who took the ACT had scores ranging from:
- 25th percentile: 34
- 75th percentile: 35
For the SAT, admitted students had scores ranging from:
- 25th percentile: 1510
- 75th percentile: 1570
Although optional, getting a high SAT/ACT score is extremely important to get your foot in the door. Princeton’s acceptance rate is notoriously low and makes the school highly selective.
Always aim for the 75th percentile to be safe. This means you need at least 1570 SAT or 35 ACT to be a cut above the rest. But scores are just the beginning of the challenge. You still need to impress the board with your non-academic endeavors and accomplishments.
Is Princeton easier to get into than Harvard?
Getting into Princeton isn’t a walk in the park, but neither is getting into Harvard. Both schools are super competitive with low acceptance rates, so it’s tough to say one is easier than the other. Each has its own unique admissions process and criteria, and what might make you a standout candidate at Princeton might differ slightly from what Harvard looks for.
Basically, both schools are looking for top-tier students with impressive academic records, strong extracurriculars, and unique personal stories. So, rather than focusing on which one is “easier” to get into, it’s better to put together the best application you can and see which school is the best fit for you.
Is Princeton the most difficult Ivy League school to get into?
Princeton is definitely one of the toughest Ivy League schools to get into, but it’s not necessarily the hardest. With an acceptance rate hovering around 4%, it’s super competitive, but Harvard’s acceptance rate has been historically lower. Yale and Columbia also have very low acceptance rates.
Each Ivy League school has its own set of criteria and strengths. For example, some schools offer early decision or early action options, which can slightly increase your chances. Princeton has an early action program, which can impact its overall acceptance rate.
So, while Princeton is incredibly challenging to get into, Harvard is technically a bit more selective. But really, all the Ivies are highly competitive, and getting into any of them is a significant achievement.
