Brown University vs Princeton University

Brown University is the more selective of the two at 5%, versus 5% at Princeton University. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Brown University
Most selective
5%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1560
Private · Rhode Island
Princeton University
Most selective
5%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1570
Private · New Jersey

Brown University vs Princeton University: the differences that matter

How Brown University and Princeton University stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Brown University and Princeton University are almost equally selective (5% vs 5%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. Brown University leans more on a similar mix of factors, while Princeton University puts more weight on alumni / legacy relation. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Brown University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1560 and Princeton University's is around 1570. Admitted students at Princeton University post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorBrown UniversityPrinceton University
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantimportant
Standardized test scoresvery importantvery important
Application essayvery importantvery important
Recommendationsvery importantvery important
Extracurricular activitiesvery importantvery important
Talent / abilityvery importantvery important
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Brown University or Princeton University harder to get into?

Brown University is harder to get into, with a 5% acceptance rate versus 5% at Princeton University.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Brown University and Princeton University?

Brown University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1560, and Princeton University's is around 1570.

What are my chances at Brown University and Princeton University?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.