Brown University
One Prospect Street, Providence, RI 02912.
Brown University is a private Ivy League research university located in Providence, Rhode Island, known for its innovative approach to undergraduate education and strong emphasis on academic freedom. Founded in 1764, Brown is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States and offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across the arts, humanities, social sciences, and sciences. The university is especially recognized for its Open Curriculum, which allows students to design their own academic paths without required core courses, encouraging intellectual exploration and interdisciplinary study. Brown fosters a collaborative campus culture, close faculty-student relationships, and a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social impact, preparing students to think critically and creatively in a rapidly changing world.
- Student–Faculty Ratio: Approximately 6:1
- Academic Style: Famous for its Open Curriculum, with no required core classes
- Research Classification: R1 – Very High Research Activity
- Campus Size: About 146 acres
- Athletics: Brown Bears, NCAA Division I
- Notable Strengths: Liberal arts, sciences, public health, computer science, and interdisciplinary studies
- Distinctive Feature: Strong emphasis on student-designed education and academic flexibility
Key Dates
- August 1, 2025: Undergraduate application for Fall 2026 opens.
- September 3, 2025: Fall 2025 Classes Begin.
- November 1, 2025: Early Decision Application Deadline.
- January 2, 2026: Regular Decision Application Deadline.
- January 21, 2026: Spring 2026 Classes Begin.
- March 21–29, 2026: Spring Recess (No Classes).
- May 21–24, 2026: Commencement & Reunion Weekend.
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Test-Required: Brown has reinstated the requirement for standardized tests (SAT or ACT) starting with the 2024–25 cycle. Mid-50% range: SAT 1510–1560; ACT 34–35.
- Application: Common App plus the Brown Writing Supplement.
- Materials: Official high school transcripts, school report, counselor recommendation, and two teacher evaluations.
- Interview: Brown does not offer alumni interviews; students may submit an optional two-minute video portfolio.
Graduate
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Materials: Personal statement, official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a resume/CV.
- Tests: GRE requirements are program-specific; many are now optional or waived.
- TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international applicants whose native language is not English.
| Program Level | Annual Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $95,000.00 - $110,000.00 |
| Graduate | $93,000.00 - $135,000.00 |
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Test-Required: Brown has reinstated the requirement for standardized tests (SAT or ACT) starting with the 2024–25 cycle. Mid-50% range: SAT 1510–1560; ACT 34–35.
- Application: Common App plus the Brown Writing Supplement.
- Materials: Official high school transcripts, school report, counselor recommendation, and two teacher evaluations.
- Interview: Brown does not offer alumni interviews; students may submit an optional two-minute video portfolio.
Graduate
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Materials: Personal statement, official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a resume/CV.
- Tests: GRE requirements are program-specific; many are now optional or waived.
- TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international applicants whose native language is not English.
| Level | Web Page | Download |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | View Programs | — |
| Graduate | View Programs | — |