Brown University, established in 1764, is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in Providence, Rhode Island. Known for its open curriculum and emphasis on student-directed learning, Brown offers a unique academic environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and independence.admission.brown.edu
If you’re considering applying to Brown, crafting a compelling application is crucial. Our statement of purpose editing services and college application essay editing can help refine your essays to effectively showcase your strengths. Brown is also featured in our Top 100 US Universities for 2025, providing insights into its standing among leading institutions.
Academic Programs
Brown offers over 80 concentrations (majors) across various disciplines, including:
- Sciences: Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, Neuroscience
- Humanities: Literature, Philosophy, History, Visual Arts
- Social Sciences: Economics, Political Science, Sociology
- Interdisciplinary Programs: Environmental Studies, Public Health, International Relations
The university’s open curriculum allows students to design their own educational pathways without the constraints of a core curriculum, encouraging exploration and interdisciplinary study.
Admissions Overview
Admission to Brown is highly competitive. For the Class of 2028, the university received 48,898 applications and admitted 2,521 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of 5.16%. The Early Decision acceptance rate was 14.38%, with 898 students admitted from 6,244 applicants.
Academic Environment
Brown maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, fostering close interactions between students and professors. The university operates on a semester system, offering a diverse range of courses each term. With a strong emphasis on undergraduate teaching, 100% of faculty members teach undergraduates, and 69% of classes have fewer than 20 students. admission.brown.edu
Brown Admissions Statistics (Class of 2028)
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Applicants | 48,898 |
| Students Admitted | 2,521 |
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 5.16% |
| Early Decision Acceptance Rate | 14.38% |
| Middle 50% SAT Score Range | 1520–1570 |
| Middle 50% ACT Score Range | 34–36 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 6:1 |
Sources:
Admissions data: Brown University News
Testing and GPA data: Brown Admission by the Numbers
Student Life at Brown
Brown offers a vibrant campus life with over 500 student organizations, including cultural clubs, service organizations, and academic societies. The campus is located in Providence, a city known for its rich history, arts scene, and culinary offerings. Students actively engage in community service, research, and extracurricular activities, fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration.
What’s Good
- Open Curriculum: “Brown’s open curriculum allows students the freedom to explore their academic interests without the constraints of a core curriculum.”
- Diverse Community: “The student body is diverse, creating a rich cultural and intellectual environment.”
- Strong Alumni Network: “Brown’s alumni network is extensive and supportive, providing valuable connections for graduates.”
What’s Not-So-Great
- Competitive Admissions: “The low acceptance rate makes admission highly competitive.”
- Cost of Attendance: “As a private institution, tuition and fees can be high, though financial aid is available.”
- Weather: “Providence experiences cold winters, which may be a consideration for some students.”Top Tier Admissions
Admissions Requirements at Brown
Brown employs a holistic review process, considering various factors:
- Academic Performance: Emphasis on high school GPA, course rigor, and academic trends.
- Standardized Test Scores: Brown reinstated its requirement for standardized test scores for the Class of 2029 applicants.
- Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership roles, community service, and unique talents are highly valued.
- Essays and Recommendations: Personal statements provide insight into the applicant’s character and fit for Brown.
Does Brown Require the Common App Essay?
Yes, Brown accepts the Common Application and requires the standard personal statement. Additionally, Brown has supplemental essay prompts that allow applicants to elaborate on their interests and how they align with the university’s offerings. These essays are crucial for demonstrating fit and passion for your chosen field of study.Brown University
SAT and ACT Requirements
For the Class of 2029, Brown requires submission of standardized test scores. The middle 50% of admitted students have SAT scores ranging from 1520 to 1570 and ACT scores between 34 and 36. Brown superscores both the SAT and ACT, considering the highest section scores across multiple test dates.
GPA Expectations
While Brown does not publish a minimum GPA requirement, admitted students typically rank in the top 10% of their high school class. The university places a high value on academic consistency and course rigor, especially in honors, AP, IB, or dual-enrollment classes.
Nearby and Comparable Universities
Brown University is part of the Ivy League and is often compared to other top-tier liberal arts and research-focused institutions that emphasize undergraduate teaching and interdisciplinary learning. Comparable universities include:
- Yale University – another Ivy League school known for academic freedom and strong humanities programs
- Columbia University – located in New York City, offers a contrasting experience with a core curriculum
- University of Pennsylvania – Ivy League school with strong interdisciplinary programs and pre-professional focus
- Dartmouth College – smaller Ivy with strong undergraduate focus and a unique quarter system
- Amherst College – top-ranked liberal arts college with a similar open curriculum approach
- Stanford University – West Coast research powerhouse with similar innovation and flexibility
- University of Chicago – known for its intellectual rigor, but with a more structured core curriculum
These schools offer similar levels of academic excellence, alumni success, and opportunities for independent, interdisciplinary study—hallmarks of the Brown experience.