What Is Princeton Engineering Program’s Ranking?

Princeton University is one of the most prestigious and competitive schools in the world. It recently claimed the #1 spot in the 2025 edition of the US News National Universities and landed at #4 in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University ranking. But how does Princeton Engineering’s ranking measure up to that impressive reputation?

At Princeton’s School of Engineering and Applied Science, the goal is to prepare you for leadership roles in engineering, research, education, business, public service, and beyond. They offer a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E.) degree across six departments, allowing you plenty of opportunities to explore and excel in your field of interest.

In this blog, we’ll dive into Princeton Engineering’s rankings, strengths, and what makes it stand out among other top programs.

• How Does Princeton’s Engineering Rank?
• Is Princeton Engineering Good?
• What Does Princeton Engineering Offer?
• How to Apply to Princeton Engineering
• How Can You Boost Your Princeton Engineering Application?
• Why Does Princeton Engineering Rank Lower Than Less Prestigious Schools?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Does Princeton’s Engineering Rank?

Let’s look at the most recent Princeton Engineering ranking, as evaluated by various prestigious institutions.

Princeton University’s Engineering Department holds impressive rankings across various platforms. It’s ranked #12 for Engineering Programs by U.S. News, #34 for Engineering and Technology by QS Rankings, and #8 for Engineering by Times Higher Education.

In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Princeton’s engineering graduate programs were collectively ranked 21st among the Best Engineering Schools. Notably, several specialty areas received high rankings:

• Chemical Engineering: Ranked 7th
• Computer Engineering: Ranked 8th
• Mechanical Engineering: Ranked 10th
• Aerospace / Aeronautical / Astronautical Engineering: Ranked 11th
• Electrical / Electronic / Communications Engineering: Ranked 11th

Princeton Engineering’s rankings can be attributed to its unique interdisciplinary approach, which combines engineering with the liberal arts to tackle some of today’s biggest societal challenges. The school focuses on research that crosses traditional boundaries and encourages innovation and collaboration at every level.

Is Princeton Engineering Good?

Absolutely! Princeton Engineering is exceptional, and its recent achievements highlight its commitment to excellence and innovation.

In September 2024, Princeton’s School of Engineering and Applied Science honored 16 graduate students with the prestigious Award for Excellence. This honor is a testament to their top-notch performance in courses, research, and teaching and highlights the incredible talent Princeton Engineering attracts.

The Class of 2024 was equally impressive, with 434 graduates in total—376 earning engineering degrees and 58 earning Bachelor of Arts degrees in computer science. Here’s the standout part: 162 of those engineering grads were women, making up 43% of the cohort, which is almost double the national average. Achievements like these highlight why the Princeton Engineering ranking remains a strong indicator of its excellence and dedication to diversity in STEM.

The faculty here is truly world-class, featuring renowned researchers and educators who are leaders in their fields. For example, Professor Athanassios Z. Panagiotopoulos, who chairs the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, stands out in molecular thermodynamics. His groundbreaking work has earned him prestigious honors, including election to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering.

In September 2022, Professor Sankaran Sundaresan was recognized with a lifetime achievement award from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers for his influential work in chemical reaction engineering.

To top it off, Princeton Engineering offers top-tier facilities and resources to support your learning and research. The Engineering Quadrangle (EQuad) is the heart of it all. The EQuad features fabrication labs and maker spaces equipped with 3D printers, CNC machines, and other advanced tools.

It is also home to various research centers and interdisciplinary institutes, including the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment, the Keller Center for Innovation in Engineering Education, and the Center for Information Technology Policy.

What Does Princeton Engineering Offer?

Princeton’s engineering program dives into the core principles of engineering sciences and gets hands-on experience applying that knowledge through advanced courses and independent projects. This comprehensive approach contributes to the strong Princeton Engineering ranking, as it prepares students for diverse and impactful career paths by blending technical expertise with a broad educational foundation.

As an engineering undergrad, you’ll choose one of six departments to focus on, tailoring your academic journey to match your interests and goals. On top of that, interdepartmental certificate programs let you explore interdisciplinary studies, adding another layer of depth to your education. With this mix of flexibility and focus, you’ll graduate ready to take on leadership roles in fields like engineering, science, business, law, medicine, and even public service.

If you’re going for a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E.) at Princeton, you’ll have six excellent departments to choose from. These include the following:

• Civil and Environmental Engineering
• Chemical and Biological Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
• Operations Research and Financial Engineering

How to Apply to Princeton Engineering

Princeton Engineering does not have a separate admissions process. All undergraduate applicants to Princeton University go through the same general admissions process, a streamlined approach that reflects the inclusivity and excellence behind the strong Princeton Engineering ranking.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to complete your Princeton first-year application. To make things simple, we’ve organized the process into three easy steps: Submit, Request, and Report.

Submit

• Complete your application. Submit your application online through the Coalition Application or Common Application. Use Princeton’s CEEB code: 2672.
• Answer Princeton-specific questions. Along with the general application, you’ll need to complete the Princeton-specific questions, available directly on the Coalition or Common Application website.
• Pay the application fee (or request a waiver). Pay the application fee through the Coalition or Common App.
• Submit a graded written paper. Include a graded paper from school, preferably from your English or history class.

Request

• Official transcript. Ask your school counselor or a school official to send your official transcript.
• School report (SR). This form is on the Coalition or Common Application website. Have your counselor or school official fill it out and submit it.
• Counselor recommendation. Remember, the School Report and Counselor Recommendation are separate. Make sure to invite your counselor or academic adviser to complete both.
• Two teacher recommendations. Pick two teachers who’ve taught you in advanced courses (like AP, IB, or A-Levels) in different core academic subjects, such as English, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or math. Strong recommendations from these teachers can help showcase your abilities and contribute to your place in a program recognized for its high Princeton Engineering ranking.
• Midyear school report. Once your midyear grades are ready, ask your counselor or school official to complete and submit this form.

Report

• SAT or ACT (optional). Princeton is test-optional for applicants in fall 2024 and 2025. If you’re submitting scores, take the SAT or ACT by October (Early Action) or December (Regular Decision). Use these codes to send your scores: SAT: 2672 and ACT: 2588
• SAT subject tests (optional). If you took Subject Tests before they were discontinued (January/June 2021) and want to share your scores, you can include them.
• TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic (if needed). This is required if English isn’t your native language and your school’s primary language isn’t English. It is not required if English is your native language or you’ve attended a school with English as the primary language for at least three years. Send your scores directly to Princeton. TOEFL code: 2672.

How Can You Boost Your Princeton Engineering Application?

Getting into Princeton Engineering is no small feat, but with the right approach, you can make your application stand out. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you put your best foot forward:

1. Build a strong academic foundation.

Princeton values rigorous academics, especially in math and science. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready:

• Take advanced courses. Aim for AP, IB, or A-Level classes in math, physics, chemistry, and biology. For example, AP Calculus BC and AP Physics are great choices to demonstrate you’re ready to excel in a program that consistently earns a strong Princeton Engineering ranking.
• Earn top grades. Shoot for As in core subjects, especially STEM classes, to demonstrate your academic ability. Princeton’s average GPA is 3.95, so aim for that.

2. Highlight your passion for engineering.

Princeton looks for students who are genuinely passionate about solving real-world problems through engineering. Show this in your application by:

• Engaging in engineering projects. Build a portfolio that showcases independent projects, competitions, or research. For example, participate in STEM-related contests like FIRST Robotics or Science Olympiad.
• Internships or research. Get hands-on experience in engineering labs or through internships. Highlighting your contributions to a major project can strengthen your application and reflect the standards of excellence behind the Princeton Engineering ranking.
• Graded written paper. Submit a strong, graded paper (preferably in English or history) that demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively—an essential skill for engineers.

3. Write compelling essays.

Your essays are a chance to showcase your personality and drive. Use them to explain why Princeton Engineering is a perfect fit for you.

• Princeton-specific questions. Share how your experiences have shaped your interest in engineering. For example, did a coding project or environmental issue inspire you? Be authentic and specific—mention particular professors, research programs, or Princeton’s interdisciplinary approach that excites you.
• Show growth. Discuss challenges you’ve overcome or moments that pushed you to think critically and innovate.

4. Leverage strong recommendations.

Great recommendation letters can set you apart.

• Choose the right teachers. Pick two teachers who know your abilities well, preferably from different STEM disciplines (e.g., physics and math).
• Counselor recommendation. Make sure your counselor highlights your leadership, work ethic, and unique contributions to your school community, aligning with the qualities that uphold the strong Princeton Engineering ranking.

5. Submit optional materials.

If you have additional materials that showcase your talents, take advantage of Princeton’s optional submissions:

• Engineering portfolio. Share technical drawings, coding projects, or research papers that reflect your skills.
• Test scores. While test-optional, high SAT/ACT scores can still strengthen your application. The average SAT scores for Princeton range between 1480–1570, and the ACT composite is typically 33–35. If you submit scores, aim for the upper end of these ranges.

6. Plan ahead for deadlines.

Timing is everything. Missing a key date can mean a rushed application—or worse, a missed opportunity.

• Early Action vs. Regular Decision. If you’re ready early, consider applying single-choice early action. It demonstrates strong interest and aligns with the competitive standards that contribute to the Princeton Engineering ranking. Just make sure your application is 100% ready before submitting.
  • Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA)
    • Deadline. November 1
    • Decision Released. Mid-December
  • Regular Decision
    • Deadline. January 1
    • Decision Released. Late March or Early April
• Midyear report. Ensure your counselor submits it promptly when midyear grades are available.

Why Does Princeton Engineering Rank Lower Than Less Prestigious Schools?

Schools like Georgia Tech and Purdue (#4 and #8 respectively in the US News Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs Rankings), both non-Ivy schools, rank higher in engineering than Princeton, even though Princeton is considered more prestigious overall. Why?

Georgia Tech and Purdue have a strong emphasis on engineering and technology disciplines, allowing them to allocate substantial resources to their programs, which influences comparisons to the Princeton Engineering ranking.

Moreover, both Georgia Tech and Purdue offer a wide array of engineering programs and specializations and thus attract a large number of students and faculty dedicated to these fields. The substantial enrollment in their engineering programs can lead to greater alumni networks and industry connections, further elevating their status in engineering education.

Both universities receive substantial funding for engineering research. In fiscal year 2023, Georgia Tech reported research and development (R&D) spending of $1.45 billion, marking a 17.9% increase from the previous year. Georgia Tech ranks second nationally in R&D spending for engineering, with expenditures totaling $839 million.

In 2024, Purdue’s system-wide research expenditures amounted to approximately $647.8 million, sourced from state and federal governments, industry, foundations, and individual donors. Purdue was ranked fourth in engineering research expenditures among U.S. colleges in 2017, with a budget of $244.8 million dedicated to engineering research.

On the other hand, Princeton, including the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, spent around $525.6 million in external research funding during the 2023–24 academic year. While specific figures for engineering aren’t detailed, this budget reflects the focused yet impactful efforts behind the Princeton Engineering ranking, even compared to larger institutions like Georgia Tech and Purdue.

Engineering-specific rankings often prioritize factors such as research output, funding, program size, and industry partnerships. While Princeton excels in many areas, the weighting of these specific criteria can result in lower rankings for its engineering programs compared to institutions like Georgia Tech and Purdue.

In summary, while Princeton maintains a prestigious reputation overall, the specialized focus, resources, industry connections, and program scale of institutions like Georgia Tech and Purdue contribute to their higher rankings in the engineering domain.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does Princeton Engineering rank among other top programs?

Princeton Engineering is highly regarded among top programs, though its rankings vary depending on the source. According to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report, it is ranked #12 for Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs and #21 for graduate engineering schools. Times Higher Education (THE) places Princeton at #9 globally in engineering for 2024, reflecting its strong international reputation. Meanwhile, the QS World University Rankings positions Princeton at #34 in Engineering and Technology for the same year.

2. Is it difficult to get into Princeton Engineering?

Getting into Princeton Engineering is undeniably tough. Princeton’s overall acceptance rate hovers around 4-6%, making it one of the most selective universities globally. While specific data for engineering admissions isn’t published separately, the acceptance rate for STEM-focused applicants is similarly competitive.

3. Which Ivy League has the best engineering program?

While all Ivy League schools are known for their academic excellence, Cornell University is often considered the strongest in engineering, ranking #9 for Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs and #13 for graduate engineering according to U.S. News. However, the Princeton Engineering ranking remains a testament to the university’s exceptional interdisciplinary approach and innovative research.

Takeaways

Princeton Engineering consistently ranks among the top programs globally. Princeton University’s engineering program is a reflection of its broader commitment to academic excellence, interdisciplinary innovation, and societal impact.

• In 2024, Princeton ranked #12 for Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs and #21 for graduate engineering (U.S. News), #9 globally in engineering (THE), and #34 in Engineering and Technology (QS).
• Princeton Engineering stands out for its interdisciplinary approach. It combines engineering with liberal arts and humanities to prepare students for solving real-world challenges with creativity and innovation.
• The Class of 2024 included a record 43% women graduates in engineering, almost double the national average. This achievement reflects Princeton’s dedication to diversity, inclusion, and creating a balanced, forward-thinking STEM environment.
• Is Princeton Engineering your dream destination? Gaining admission to this prestigious program is highly competitive, but you can maximize your chances by building an outstanding portfolio. Partner with a college admissions expert to craft a compelling application that sets you apart.