With its commitment to academic excellence and its storied history, Princeton is one of the most sought-after universities for higher education in the U.S. Every year thousands of ambitious aspirants dream of joining this elite and intellectually vibrant community. Many are disappointed for not making it. Students and parents need to understand the acceptance trends at the university to make an informed choice. This blog will help current and prospective students tailor their college lists based on this blog.
Changing trends
Princeton University has a reputation for having a highly rigorous selection process. Being a highly selective university, Princeton’s acceptance rates have become even lower in the last few years, and this is true for all the Ivy League colleges. The competitive nature of the application is revealed by the fact that for the class of 2027, the number of applications soared to 39,644 from 35,370 for the class of 2026 . Compared to that, for the class of 2028, the numbers had risen to 40,468; Princeton welcomed only 1,868 first-time, first-year students in the class of 2028. This makes the acceptance rate 4.6%. Admission Statistics | Princeton Admission
Geographical Diversity
Princeton admitted students from all 50 states, plus Washington, D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and are citizens of 74 countries. International students represent 14% of the admitted students.
Standardized testing
Princeton views standardized testing as only one element in its holistic assessment approach that includes extracurricular involvement, leadership qualities, and personal character. They continue to recognize the loss of opportunities and learning disruption caused by COVID-19 and have remained test-optional. They have not reinstated the SAT or ACT for the current admission cycle of 2024-25 and assure students that they will not be disadvantaged for deciding not to submit their scores. This reflects the university’s commitment to have a broader understanding of student potential beyond standardized testing. Standardized Testing | Princeton Admission
A diverse student body
Princeton believes, “Diversity is not an end in itself but, rather, a precondition for academic excellence, institutional relevance, and national vitality.” They are working toward having a more diverse student body by expanding their undergraduate class profile. The Class of 2028 admitted 36 transfer students, which forms the largest cohort since Princeton reinstated its transfer program in 2018. This directly results in students from community colleges and military backgrounds entering Princeton’s academic community. Of the students offered admission, 52% are women and 48% are men. There has been a slight drop in the student body representing first-gen college students from 17% in 2027 to 16.3% in 2028.
Increased competitiveness
Princeton is looking for high school students who are among the best or possess the potential to do something phenomenal in the world. Students applying to Princeton are students with very high GPAs and a gamut of activities. The admissions officers are having a difficult time putting their finger on the best candidate. Hence they are looking for students with varied talents, exceptional personal qualities, and lived experiences that can differentiate candidates. You cannot be a run-of-the-mill applicant. Your work in high school must showcase your deep quest for learning, devotion to academic and non-academic pursuits, and integrity of character. When working on your profile, ensure you can bring distinctive academic and extracurricular talents that the college can benefit from.
Working with study abroad consultants, overseas education consultants, or, as more commonly known, college counselors, can help you plan and make those high school years count. We can help you with your college application process. Ivy Central offers exceptional focus to help you prepare for college admissions throughout the high school years. Start today!
