Brown University Admissions 2025: Process, Requirements & Deadlines

Brown University's admissions process is highly competitive and meticulously structured, with clear deadlines for all applicants. For first-year undergraduate applicants, the Early Decision deadline is November 1, 2025, while the Regular Decision deadline is January 3, 2026.

For the 2025-2026 application cycle, Brown University now reviews international undergraduate applications on a need-blind basis (financial need is not considered during admission decisions). 

Brown University's selectivity is highlighted by its recent admissions statistics. For the Class of 2028, the university received over 51,000 applications and admitted just 5.1% of applicants, reflecting its status as one of the most in-demand Ivy League Schools for those who wish to study in the USA.

Here's a detailed overview of Brown University admissions: 

Having explored Brown University admissions, let’s understand that the intake periods will help you plan your application strategy effectively.

Brown University Admission Dates

Brown University primarily offers a single intake each year for undergraduate programs: the Fall intake. This means all first-year and transfer applicants must apply for entry in the Fall semester, as there is no Spring intake for undergraduate admissions. 

The application process includes two main pathways: Early Decision, with a deadline of November 1, 2025 and Regular Decision, with a deadline of January 3, 2026. Graduate program intakes and deadlines may vary by department, but most follow a Fall entry schedule.

Let's take a closer look at both the intakes: 

Fall Intake

The Fall intake is the primary admission cycle at Brown University and includes both Early Decision and Regular Decision pathways for undergraduate courses, with deadlines set for November 1, 2025 and January 3, 2026. 

Transfer applicants also follow a Fall entry schedule, with a deadline of March 3. Individual departments determine graduate program deadlines for Fall intake, but most align with the university's main academic calendar.

The following table outlines the key Fall intake deadlines by course type:

While the Fall intake is the primary entry point for most programs at Brown University, some graduate departments may offer a Spring intake for select programs.

Spring Intake

The Spring intake at Brown University is limited to select graduate programs, with no Spring admission available for undergraduate or transfer students. Specific graduate programs offering Spring admission include the Brown Executive Scholars Training (BEST) Program, Biomedical Engineering, and certain master’s degrees such as Public Health, Data Science, and Medical Physics.

Below are the detailed spring intake deadlines for Brown University Spring Intake:

Once you know the intake period and deadlines, the next step is to fill out the application. Here's everything you should know about the Brown University admission process. 

Brown University Admission Process

Brown University's admissions are among the most competitive in the Ivy League. For the Class of 2029, Brown received 42,765 applications and admitted only 2,418 students, resulting in an overall acceptance rate of 5.65%. 

The Early Decision acceptance rate was 17.9% (906 admitted from 5,048 applicants), while the Regular Decision acceptance rate was just 4.01% (1,512 admitted from 37,717 applicants).

Here’s a step-by-step application process for admission application process at Brown University: 

Step 1. Select Application Plan

Decide between Early Decision (deadline: November 1) or Regular Decision (deadline: January 3). Early Decision requires a signed agreement from the applicant, parent/guardian, and counselor.

Step 2. Register and Complete the Common Application

Create an account on the Common Application portal, select Brown University, and fill out all required sections, including Brown-specific questions and three supplemental essays (200–250 words each).

Step 3. Pay Application Fee or Request Waiver

Submit the $75 (approx. ₹6,250) non-refundable application fee or request a fee waiver directly in the Common Application.

Step 4. Submit Official High School Transcript and School Report

Ask your school counselor or official to send your official transcript (with grades through junior year and mid-year senior grades) and School Report via the Common Application. If your school lacks a counselor, a principal or academic advisor may submit these.

Step 5. Provide Two Teacher Recommendations

Arrange for two teachers from core academic subjects to submit recommendation letters through the Common Application or directly to Brown.

Step 6. Submit Counselor Recommendation

Ensure your school counselor submits a recommendation letter through the Common Application.

Step 7. Send Standardized Test Scores

For admissions, SAT or ACT scores are required and must be sent directly from the testing agency.

Step 8. Submit Optional Materials

If relevant, upload other documents required for study abroad, like an arts supplement (portfolio or audition) through the Common Application.

Step 9. Track Application Status and Await Decision

Use Brown’s applicant portal to confirm receipt of all materials. Early Decision results are released mid-December; Regular Decision results in late March/early April.

Step 10. Visa Process for Admitted International Students

• After accepting your offer, activate your Brown account and email. Upload passport. US study visa, and financial documents to the OISSS Gateway Portal for I-20 issuance. 
• Once you receive your I-20, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, complete the DS-160 visa application.
• Schedule and attend your F-1 visa interview, and complete pre-arrival check-in with Brown’s Office of International Student and Scholar Services.

Begin your Brown University application with confidence. Book a free one-on-one counseling session with an upGrad expert for personalized advice on requirements, deadlines, and submission.

Now that you have explored the admission procedure, let's understand the admission process for the MBA at Brown University. 

Brown University MBA Admissions

Brown University offers the IE Brown Executive MBA, a 15-month hybrid program delivered in partnership with IE Business School. This executive MBA is tailored for mid- to senior-level professionals. 

The curriculum combines online learning with five in-person residencies across Providence, Madrid, and Cape Town, and is designed for candidates with at least 10 years of professional experience, including a minimum of 3 years in a management role. 

If you’re considering applying to this highly selective MBA in the USA, it’s crucial to understand the specific admission requirements.

MBA Admission Requirement 

The IE Brown Executive MBA admissions process is selective, focusing on experienced professionals with strong leadership skills and a global perspective. Applications are reviewed on a rolling admission basis, with multiple priority deadlines throughout the year and a final deadline of February 15, 2026. 

Candidates must present a strong application package, including academic credentials, professional documentation, essays, and proof of English language proficiency levels. GRE/GMAT scores are not required.

Below are the detailed admission requirements for the IE Brown Executive MBA:

Financing an MBA is a significant consideration for many candidates, and Brown University, in partnership with IE Business School, offers a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities.

MBA Scholarships

The IE Brown Executive MBA provides merit-based and need-based MBA scholarships in the USA, covering 10% and 50% of tuition fees. Scholarships are designed to support exceptional candidates and assist those with demonstrated financial need. All applicants are automatically considered for most scholarships during the admissions review.

Below is a table with a detailed overview of major MBA scholarship options available at Brown:

As you consider advanced business education, it’s also worth exploring the pathways Brown University offers for STEM and interdisciplinary scholars through its master of Science (MS) programs.

Brown University MS Admissions

Brown University’s Master of Science (MS) programs are highly selective and require strong academic backgrounds in relevant fields. Top MS courses include Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, and Chemical and Biochemical Engineering. 

Most programs admit for the Fall semester only, with deadlines typically between January 15 and February 1, 2026. Applicants are evaluated on academic performance, relevant coursework, research or professional experience, and English proficiency.

Before applying, let’s understand the specific admission criteria for your target MS program.

MS Admission Requirement 

Admission to Brown’s MS programs is highly competitive, with each department setting precise criteria based on academic background and relevant skills. Most programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and a bachelor’s degree in a related field. 

Applicants must submit three detailed letters of recommendation, a focused resume, and program-specific essays or short-answer responses.

Let’s break down these requirements in detail: 

Note: It is essential to verify the specific requirements and deadlines for your chosen MS program directly on the Brown University website.

When considering graduate study at Brown, understanding your funding options is just as important as meeting admission requirements.

MS Scholarships

Brown University offers targeted merit-based and need-based scholarships for MS students. However, most master's students are self-funded or supported by various scholarships, loans, and external awards. For example, the Department of Computer Science provides a small number of full-tuition merit scholarships each year.

Brown was named a top producer of Fulbright awardees, with 40 graduate students and alumni receiving this prestigious external scholarship.

Below are given scholarship options to understand the types of scholarships for MS and their eligibility: 

Let’s now understand how medical education is structured at Brown University and what it takes to join one of the nation’s most selective MD programs.

Brown University: MBBS Admissions

Brown University does not offer an MBBS degree; instead, its Warren Alpert Medical School confers the MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree, the U.S. equivalent of MBBS. The MD program is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate below 3% and a median MCAT score of 515–516 for recent entering classes.

Popular medical programs at Brown include the standard four-year MD, the innovative combined MD-ScM in Primary Care-Population Medicine, and the eight-year Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME)

Next, let's understand the specific admission requirements for students interested in the pre-medical track and study medicine in the USA at Brown University. 

MBBS Admission Requirement 

For admission in medical courses at Brown University, all applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and complete a baccalaureate degree before matriculation. 

The application process is centralized through AMCAS, with a primary deadline of October 7 and a secondary application deadline of November 1, 2025 for the 2025 intake.

Below is a detailed table outlining the specific admission requirements and their details:

Next, let’s explore the available scholarships and financial support for pre-med and medical students at Brown University.

MBBS/MD Scholarships

Brown’s Warren Alpert Medical School offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships to offset the cost of medical education. 85% of medical students received financial aid, with average scholarship awards ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 (INR 17.22L- 43L) per year. 

Additional external scholarships and federal loan programs are also available, and all admitted students are automatically considered for institutional aid upon submission of the FAFSA and CSS Profile.

Here's a table mentioning key MBBS scholarships in USA offered by Brown University: 

Let’s also explore the wide range of postgraduate programs available beyond business and medicine.

Brown University: Other PG Courses Admission

Brown University offers various postgraduate (PG) degrees across the humanities, social sciences, physical sciences, engineering, and interdisciplinary fields. These programs include MA, ScM, MPA, MAT, MFA, and specialized master’s degrees, each with its own admission criteria and competitive selection process.

Let’s have a look at the specific requirements and deadlines for your intended program to ensure a complete and competitive application.

Other PG Course Admission Requirements 

Brown University's other postgraduate (PG) courses, spanning arts, sciences, engineering, public policy, and more, maintain strict, program-specific admission standards. Applicants are evaluated on academic performance, relevant experience, and the strength of their application materials. 

Most masters in the USA require a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency for international students.

Below is a table mentioning the top requirements for study in USA and their details: 

Note: The university has minimum guidelines, but your program may have higher or additional requirements. 

After exploring Brown University's diverse postgraduate offerings, let’s have a look at the requirements for undergraduate admission

Brown University Bachelor's Admission

Brown University offers over 80 UG programs for high-demand jobs in the USA, across the arts, sciences, and interdisciplinary fields, with students able to further customize their studies through certificates and independent concentrations. 

The university’s Open Curriculum allows students to design their academic path without core requirements, encouraging intellectual exploration and depth in chosen areas. 

Before exploring the admission requirements, let’s first take a look at the advantages of getting admitted to Brown University for Bachelor's.

Advantages of Getting into Brown University 

Brown’s undergraduate program is among the most selective in the US, with a 5.4% acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 and over 48,900 applications received. Students choose from more than 80 concentrations and over 2,000 courses annually, benefiting from a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an open curriculum that fosters academic freedom. 

Nearly 67% of classes have fewer than 20 students, and 44% of US undergraduates identify as people of color, reflecting Brown’s commitment to diversity and personalized learning.

If you’re considering applying, here are some of the key advantages:

• Open Curriculum: Brown's flexible academic structure allows students to design their course of study without core requirements, encouraging intellectual exploration and depth.
• Diverse and Inclusive Community: Brown offers a vibrant, multicultural environment with students from 113+ countries and 44% of U.S. undergraduates identifying as people of color.
• Small Class Sizes and Faculty Access: 67% of classes have fewer than 20 students, ensuring personalized attention and close mentorship from Brown's 866 regular faculty members.
• Exceptional Outcomes: Brown boasts an 80% four-year graduation rate and is a top producer of Fulbright and Rhodes Scholars, supporting strong post-graduation opportunities.

Next, let’s explore the specific admission requirements for Brown University's bachelor’s programs.

Admission Requirements

Brown University’s undergraduate admission process requires applicants to demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, strong standardized test scores, and meaningful extracurricular involvement. 

All first-year applicants must apply through the Common Application, submit Brown-specific essays, and provide comprehensive academic records, including a high school curriculum with honors or AP/IB courses where available. As of the 2024–2025 cycle, SAT or ACT scores are required

Below is a table with detailed admission requirements and their specifics:

Note: Admission requirements and minimum scores may vary by program; always check the specific program page on Brown University’s official website for the latest details.

As you prepare your application and gather required documents, it’s also essential to consider the financial support available to undergraduate students at Brown University.

Bachelor's Scholarships 

Brown University is committed to making undergraduate education financially accessible by meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, with no loans in financial aid packages.

41% of full-time undergraduates received institutional grants, with an average award of $42,455, and families earning under $125,000 with typical assets may qualify for full-tuition scholarships. Brown does not offer merit-based scholarships; all institutional aid is strictly need-based.

Below is a table with key undergraduate fully-funded scholarships: 

After considering admission, scholarships, and academic offerings, it’s crucial to understand Brown's comprehensive support to help students succeed academically and personally.

Brown University Student Support Services

Brown University delivers highly individualized, identity-conscious support services that address its diverse student body's academic, health, and personal needs. 

Over 90% of students accessed at least one support service. Student Support Services deans provided confidential, one-on-one consultations for issues ranging from academic distress to workload reduction and leaves of absence.

Here are some of the most significant student support services:

• Personalized Support and Crisis Intervention: Student Support Services deans offer confidential, individualized guidance for academic, personal, and identity-related challenges, including workload adjustments and leaves of absence.
• Comprehensive Health & Wellness Care: Student Health Services provided over 34,000 clinical encounters last year, including urgent healthcare management, mental health counseling, sexual health services, and 24/7 crisis support, staffed by a multidisciplinary team of 65 professionals.
• Identity-Affirming Outreach and Advocacy: Support is tailored for students’ intersecting identities (e.g., first-generation, LGBTQ+, undocumented), ensuring culturally competent care and advocacy in academic and community settings.
• Education and Community Training: The office leads campus-wide education for students, staff, and faculty on recognizing and supporting students in distress, fostering a more responsive and inclusive environment.

To sum up, Brown University stands out with a 5.4% undergraduate acceptance rate, over 80 majors, and an average institutional scholarship of $42,455 awarded to 41% of undergraduates annually.