Unlike many of its Ivy League counterparts, Brown University fosters an academic environment characterized by intellectual curiosity, creativity, and a progressive ethos rather than cutthroat competition. At the heart of Brown’s distinctive approach lies its renowned Open Curriculum, which empowers students to explore their academic passions freely from day one. However, gaining admission to this esteemed institution in Providence, Rhode Island is no easy feat. While Brown has long been known for its selectivity, today’s acceptance rates are notably lower than those of previous decades. In 2000, the acceptance rate stood at 16.2%, whereas for the Class of 2027, it plummeted to a mere 5%.
Nestled in the lively College Hill neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island, Brown University boasts a vibrant campus situated in the heart of this culturally rich city.
As a proud member of the Ivy League since 1769, Brown University holds a significant place in American academic history. Initially established as the third college in New England and the seventh in the Colonies, Brown has since evolved into a renowned institution renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to innovation.
What is The Brown University Early Decision Acceptance Rate?
Out of the 6,770 early decision applications received for the Class of 2027, Brown University admitted only 879, resulting in a 13% acceptance rate. This represents a slight decrease from the previous cycle, during which 14.6% of early decision applicants were accepted.
What is The Brown University Acceptance Rate?
From the largest applicant pool in its history—51,302 applicants—only 2,609 emerged with an acceptance letter, resulting in an overall Brown acceptance rate of 5.1%. The last time Brown’s acceptance rate was in double digits was for the Class of 2013, with an 11.2% acceptance rate.
Historical Brown acceptance rates:
- Class of 2026: 5.0%
- Class of 2025: 5.5%
What is The Brown University SAT, ACT, and Class Rank?
In the Class of 2026, the median SAT score was 1520, while the median ACT score stood at 34. Impressively, 92% achieved a composite ACT score above 32, and 95% scored above 700 on the math section of the SAT. Moreover, 91% of students ranked in the top 10% of their high school class, with 98% placing in the top quartile.
What is The Admission Insights at The Brown University?
- The regular decision acceptance rate stood at 3.8%.
- There was a slight increase in applications for the Class of 2027.
- Only 1.7% gained admission to the Program in Liberal Medical Education, and 2% were accepted into the Brown-RISD dual degree program.
- Brown admitted a comparable number of men and women into the Class of 2027.
- Approximately 8% of admitted freshmen hailed from rural areas.
What is The Brown University Demographics?
Let’s now explore the demographics of the Brown undergraduate student body.
Geography – National
The largest number of admitted students come from:
- California
- New York
- Massachusetts
- Connecticut
- New Jersey
- Rhode Island
- Texas
- Florida
- Illinois
- Pennsylvania
Like any prestigious institution, Brown values geographic diversity. If you’re from the Deep South or a less-populated state like Wyoming or Idaho, your location may bolster your application.
Geography – International
The top five countries from which current undergraduates originate are:
- China
- UK
- Canada
- Ukraine
- South Korea
Ethnicity
In terms of ethnic identity, the current Brown undergraduate student body breakdown is as follows (percentages may exceed 100% due to students listing multiple races):
- White: 41%
- Asian: 18%
- Hispanic: 11%
- African American: 8%
- Two or more races: 7%
- Unknown: 3%
Top Intended Concentrations
The most popular concentrations among last year’s freshmen were:
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Political Science
- Engineering
- International and Public Affairs
What is The Brown Yield Rate?
Brown University boasts a yield rate of 67%, positioning it behind institutions like Harvard, Stanford, Penn, and Yale. Nevertheless, Brown’s yield rate surpasses that of Cornell (64%), Notre Dame (60%), and Northwestern (60%). This statistic indicates that most applicants consider Brown their top choice. Additionally, the growing number of students applying through binding early decision each year further underscores Brown’s appeal as a first-choice institution.
What is The Admission Criteria at The Brown?
Brown University seeks students with a fervent curiosity and a drive to effect change. To select the top 5% from a pool of highly talented applicants, the university employs a holistic admissions approach devoid of rigid formulas. As articulated by the Brown admissions office, this method aims to uncover each applicant’s potential contributions to the vibrant academic, social, and extracurricular fabric of the university. Factors such as unique talents, accomplishments, energy, curiosity, perspective, and identity are carefully evaluated to envision how they integrate into Brown’s dynamic community.
Brown assigns great importance to eight key categories in the admissions process: rigor of secondary school record, class rank, GPA, standardized test scores, application essay, recommendations, talent/ability, and character/personal qualities. The university values genuine excellence in extracurricular activities over mere participation. Whether through winning international competitions, excelling in artistic endeavors, publishing academic works, or initiating impactful charitable ventures, applicants are encouraged to showcase their exceptional achievements. Additionally, being recruited as an athlete can significantly enhance one’s chances of admission, with Brown fielding 34 varsity sports teams that engage over 800 undergraduates annually.
The Brown University Application Process Key Tips
If you’re gearing up to join the throng of over 50,000 hopefuls vying for a spot at Brown in the upcoming admissions cycle, here’s what you need to know:
- Brown offers applicants the choice of an alumni interview, which can be conducted in-person, over the phone/Skype, or through the submission of a two-minute video portfolio. Opting for the latter allows candidates to upload a video into their Applicant Portal on topics like why they chose Brown, their academic interests, influential individuals, or their community.
- Approximately 10-12% of each Brown class comprises “legacies,” students with immediate relatives, usually parents, who attended the university. This legacy status can provide an advantage in the admissions process.
- Unlike some institutions, Brown does not factor in “demonstrated interest.” Visiting campus or engaging on social media solely to showcase Brown as a top choice is unnecessary.
- Teacher recommendations carry significant weight at Brown. It’s crucial to solicit recommendations from teachers in major subjects who can provide strong endorsements of your academic prowess. Aim for endorsements that highlight exceptional achievements, such as being in the top 1% of math students or the best in American Literature in a teacher’s career.
- Dedicate ample time and effort to crafting compelling supplemental essays and short answers required by Brown. These pieces offer opportunities to showcase your personality, interests, and aspirations beyond what’s captured in other parts of your application.
Conclusion
The journey to securing a coveted spot at Brown University is undoubtedly competitive and multifaceted. With a thorough understanding of the admissions process and strategic planning, applicants can enhance their chances of success. Whether it’s showcasing academic excellence, unique talents, or personal qualities, each aspect of the application plays a vital role in painting a comprehensive picture of the individual. As aspiring Brown Bears embark on this exciting endeavor, they are encouraged to approach the process with authenticity, passion, and a commitment to excellence.