Princeton emphasizes undergraduate teaching and pioneering research in equal measure. Its generous no-loan aid policy makes an elite education broadly accessible.
What is the acceptance rate at Princeton University?
Princeton University admits approximately 4% of applicants, making it "Highly Selective" in our directory.
How much does Princeton University cost per year?
Tuition is approximately 57,410 USD per year before aid. See the Tuition tab for a full cost-of-attendance breakdown.
Does Princeton University offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes — Princeton University offers Princeton Grant, Need-based Aid, and about 62% of students receive some form of financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Princeton University?
The application deadline is Jan 01. We recommend submitting all materials at least two weeks ahead of that date.
What can I study at Princeton University?
Princeton University offers 4 broad fields of study: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Business.
How big are classes at Princeton University?
The average class size is 10 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 4:1, across a medium campus of about 8,500 students.
Princeton University
🇺🇸 Princeton, NJ, United States · USA
#17
Global Ranking
Detailed admissions profile compiled by UniPath on June 24, 2026. Figures are directory estimates intended for planning purposes — always confirm exact requirements and costs with the official admissions office at https://www.princeton.edu.
At a Glance
Established
1746
Student Population
8,500
Faculty Ratio
4:1
Average Class Size
10
Acceptance Rate
4%
Annual Tuition
$57,410
Financial Aid Recipients
62%
Application Deadline
Jan 01
Website
https://www.princeton.edu
About Princeton University
Princeton emphasizes undergraduate teaching and pioneering research in equal measure. Its generous no-loan aid policy makes an elite education broadly accessible.
Tags: Ivy League · Research · Private · Undergraduate-focused
Highly competitive admissions mean a tightly selected, high-achieving peer group.
Generous aid — 62% of students receive financial support.
Small average class size (10 students) for close faculty access.
An active, well-funded research culture.
Dedicated scholarship programs, including Princeton Grant, Need-based Aid.
Admissions — Highly Selective
With only 4% of applicants admitted, every part of the application needs to be deliberate — academics, essays, and activities all carry weight.
This school is more selective than approximately 88% of schools in our directory, ranks better than 92% of them, and is more affordable than 13% (out of 172 schools compared).
Typical requirements:
Completed online application
Official academic transcripts
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) for non-native speakers
3 letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors
Personal statement plus 2+ supplemental essays
Standardized test scores (optional at many schools, but top-decile scores strengthen the file)
Demonstrated depth in 1-2 extracurriculars rather than breadth across many
Test-optional, but admitted students who submit scores typically land in the 90th percentile or above.
Cost of Attendance (Estimated, per year)
Tuition
$57,410
Housing & Living
$20,094
Books & Supplies
$2,296
Personal Expenses
$4,593
Total Cost of Attendance
$84,393
Est. Average Grant / Aid
- $21,357
Est. Net Price
$36,053
4-Year Total (before aid)
$337,572
Estimates for international students; actual aid varies by applicant profile.
Scholarships
Princeton Grant
Need-based Aid
Majors & Career Outcomes
Engineering — $72,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Design Engineer, Project Manager, R&D Specialist, Systems Engineer
Natural Sciences — $58,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Research Scientist, Lab Manager, Biotech Specialist, Environmental Consultant
Social Sciences — $54,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Policy Analyst, Economist, Counselor, HR Specialist
Business — $65,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Management Consultant, Entrepreneur
Campus Life
Leafy collegiate-Gothic campus with eating clubs, strong school spirit, and small seminar culture.
Suggested Application Timeline
12+ weeks before: Request transcripts and letters of recommendation; start drafting your personal statement.
8 weeks before: Finalize essays, gather standardized test scores, and complete the online application form.
4 weeks before: Submit early — leave buffer time for technical issues or late-arriving documents.
Jan 01 — deadline: Hard deadline. All materials must be received by the admissions office.
After submitting: Track your applicant portal and respond promptly to any requests for more information.
Similar Universities to Consider
School
Rank
Tuition
Acceptance
Yale University
#16
$64,700
4.6%
University of Pennsylvania
#15
$63,000
6%
Cornell University
#20
$63,200
7%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Princeton University?
Princeton University admits approximately 4% of applicants, making it "Highly Selective" in our directory.
How much does Princeton University cost per year?
Tuition is approximately 57,410 USD per year before aid. See the Tuition tab for a full cost-of-attendance breakdown.
Does Princeton University offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes — Princeton University offers Princeton Grant, Need-based Aid, and about 62% of students receive some form of financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Princeton University?
The application deadline is Jan 01. We recommend submitting all materials at least two weeks ahead of that date.
What can I study at Princeton University?
Princeton University offers 4 broad fields of study: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Business.
How big are classes at Princeton University?
The average class size is 10 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 4:1, across a medium campus of about 8,500 students.