Princeton University College Application Essay Prompts and Guide
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Applying to Princeton University: Guide to Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions
Princeton University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world, is located in Princeton, New Jersey. It is renowned for its competitive academic programs, renowned faculty members, and a strong focus on research. Students worldwide strive to join this esteemed university. If you are considering applying to Princeton University, it is essential to understand the admissions process to ensure you submit an excellent application. Here is a guide for you.Undergraduate Admission Application Process
The undergraduate application process at Princeton University is divided into two parts. You must submit the Common Application, Coalition Application, or Questbridge Application and Princeton’s Supplemental Application. Here are some essential details:- Application deadline: November 1
- Application fee waiver available for eligible students
- SAT or ACT scores required, and the writing section is optional
- Subject specific tests are optional
- Recommendation letters from two teachers
- Transcripts from every high school attended
- Essays: One Common/Coalition/Questbridge Application and One Princeton Supplement Essay
Graduate Admission Application Process
The graduate admission application process at Princeton University varies from program to program. But, in general, here is what you need:- Application Deadline: December 1 or December 15
- Application fee waiver available for eligible students
- Transcripts from every higher education institution attended
- Standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, etc.) required for most programs
- Letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors
- Essays: Varies by program (one to three)
Essays You Need to submit
The admissions team at Princeton University uses essays as a way to learn more about the applicant, their intellectual curiosity, and their personality. Ensure your essay is unique, engaging, and provides insight into your background. Follow the guidelines carefully. - Undergraduate students: You need to submit two essays: one Common/Coalition/Questbridge Application essay (650 words maximum) and one Princeton Supplemental Essay (500 words maximum). - Graduate students: The number of essays required varies by program. Please check with the program you intend to apply to for more information.Supplemental Materials or Essays
It is imperative to check the program information to know what documents you should submit. But some programs may require additional essays or materials, such as:- Recorded auditions
- Portfolios
- Research papers
Key Essay Insights from Public Information
Although specific essay prompts vary each year, from past admissions information, it is known that Princeton University values students who are passionate about their experiences, engaging with diverse perspectives, and taking a critical approach to problem-solving. The admissions team at Princeton University is looking for students who demonstrate:- Intellectual curiosity
- Strong writing skills
- Leadership qualities
- Engagement in extracurricular activities
- Demonstrated accomplishments in their field of interest or major
Acceptance rates by program at Princeton University
Princeton University is a highly selective institution, and acceptance rates vary across programs. Below are the acceptance rates for selected programs, according to US News & World Report (2022):Undergraduate Admissions:
- Overall Acceptance Rate: 3.49%
Graduate Admissions:
- Computer Science: 5.54%
- Economics: 5.80%
- Psychology: 9.26%
- Mathematics: 10.41%
