Princeton University

Princeton University has a unique, single-campus setting that blends history and modernity, making it one of the best universities in the USA for MS and bachelor degrees. 

The campus is home to iconic buildings, expansive green spaces, and a rich tradition, all contributing to its academic atmosphere. As the birthplace of the term "campus" in 1774, Princeton has shaped the academic world in more ways than one.

Here’s a glimpse of some distinctive features of the Princeton campus:

• Putnam Sculpture Collection: The campus features over 20 sculptures by renowned artists like Picasso, Calder, and Moore, starting from an initial collection of 20 pieces in 1969. 
• Art of Science Competition: Princeton hosts an annual "Art of Science" competition where students and faculty create artistic representations of their scientific research, blending creativity with science.
• Cleveland Tower Carillon: Cleveland Tower’s 35-bell carillon, gifted by the Class of 1892, plays chimes that are a unique auditory signature of the campus.
• James Forrestal Campus: Located off-campus, this facility is Princeton’s research hub for scientific disciplines, particularly in engineering, supporting the university’s cutting-edge research initiatives.
• Lake Campus North Development: Princeton is developing a graduate student housing complex on 520 acres in West Windsor, showcasing the university’s commitment to expanding student living spaces.

Once you've explored the campus, let’s take a closer look at where the university stands in the global and national rankings.

Princeton University holds its position among the world’s elite institutions. According to the QS rankings, it was #17 in 2024, shifted to #22 in 2025, and is projected to land at #25 in 2026. In the THE rankings, Princeton improved from #6 to #4 between 2024 and 2025. For U.S. News, Princeton has remained #1 nationally in 2024 and 2025.

Here’s a snapshot of these rankings:

Now that you’ve seen Princeton’s overall rankings, explore its standout course-level rankings in 2025/26.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2025/26

Princeton consistently ranks among the best for fields like Masters in Arts & Humanities, Economics, and Politics. In 2025, it secured #6 in Arts & Humanities (THE) and #1 in Economics (U.S. News), proving its academic leadership across diverse disciplines.

Here are Princeton’s top course-wise rankings for 2025/26:

Want to know rankings for the subject of your choice? Explore Princeton University Rankings and get a complete overview of global, national, and subject-wise positions. 

Now that you’ve reviewed the course-wise rankings, let’s explore the admissions process for Princeton University in 2025.

With 5,671 undergraduate and 3,251 graduate students, Princeton maintains a selective admissions process for both levels. You must meet rigorous academic standards to qualify for its prestigious bachelor’s degrees or advanced graduate degrees. International applicants must also meet visa and English proficiency requirements.

Let’s begin with the academic qualifications required for both undergraduate and graduate applicants.

Admission Requirements

Princeton expects rigorous academic preparation and verified records from every applicant. International transcripts must include official English translations, and GPA must be recalculated on a 4.0 scale for non-U.S. grading systems. 

Placement testing is required if your IELTS speaking score is below 8.0 or Duolingo conversation score is under 125. J‑1 visa applicants must secure at least 51% of funding from non-personal sources to qualify.

Let’s begin with the academic qualifications required for both undergraduate and graduate applicants.

Academic Requirements

Princeton’s academic standards are highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of only 4%. Undergraduate admits typically have a GPA close to 4.0, while graduate applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree and present transcripts in English with complete grade details.

Here are the academic requirements for undergraduate and graduate admissions:

Note: The information listed above is overall. The actual requirements might be different in specific programs. 

ELP Requirements

To skip placement testing at Princeton, you must meet specific section-level scores. For example, a minimum IELTS band score of 8.0 in speaking is required to avoid extra testing after admission.

Here are the accepted minimums for each approved test:

Note: The information listed above is overall. The actual requirements might be different in specific programs. 

Competitive Exams

Princeton allows GMAT score submissions only for its Finance graduate program, while other programs evaluate GRE results or may waive them altogether. The undergraduate SAT/ACT test-optional policy continues through Fall 2025, aligning with broader Ivy League trends.

Here’s a breakdown of competitive exam requirements across degrees.

Note: The information listed above is overall. The actual requirements might be different in specific programs. 

Visa Requirements

Over 23% of Princeton’s full-time students hold international status, making visa documentation a standard part of the admission process. To study at Princeton, you must apply for an appropriate student visa after receiving your admission offer and university-issued immigration documents.

Here are the key visa requirements for international students.

Now that you understand the visa process, let’s look at the application dates and deadlines for Princeton.

Application timelines at Princeton vary depending on the degree and type of applicant. If you're applying for a bachelors of arts & humanities, Early Action deadlines start from November 1, with arts supplements due shortly after. Graduate deadlines differ by program, some closing as early as December 1.

Here’s a breakdown of the important dates to keep in mind::

Want to understand the admission process in detail? Check out Princeton University Admissions to get program-wise eligibility, deadlines, and scholarship opportunities. 

Now that you've seen the deadlines, let’s explore the courses and programs at Princeton.  

Princeton University offers a diverse range of academic programs, featuring over 50 undergraduate and graduate courses across multiple disciplines. Whether your interests lie in engineering, humanities, social sciences, or natural sciences, Princeton provides a comprehensive academic experience.

Here are some of the main program areas available at Princeton:

• STEM Courses: Programs include Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, and Chemical Engineering with a focus on innovation and research.
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Courses in History, English, Political Science, Philosophy, and Economics emphasize critical analysis and leadership.
• Natural Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics programs with strong research components.
• Public and International Affairs: Interdisciplinary studies in public policy, like MBA in Public Policy, and global affairs.
• Architecture: Design and planning with integration of technology and sustainability.
• Graduate Studies: Advanced degrees, including PhDs and Master’s across all fields.

Princeton equips you with the skills and knowledge needed for leadership in academia, industry, and public service. Next, let’s look at the program fees at Princeton University.

Tuition for undergraduate programs is $62,400 (INR 53.45L) per year, while master’s and Ph.D. programs cost $65,210 (INR 55.89L) annually. Princeton fully funds all admitted Ph.D. students, covering both tuition and living expenses. When planning the cost of studying in the USA in Princeton University, it's important to understand program-wise fees in both USD and INR.

Here’s the annual tuition across different program types:

Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Now that you understand the tuition costs, let’s look at the typical living expenses in the U.S. as a Princeton student.

Princeton’s scholarships and financial aid model prioritizes grants over loans, making it one of the most generous in the Ivy League. In 2025, the average need-based self-help aid awarded to first-year students was only $2,812 (INR 2.41L), reflecting how minimal work-study expectations are compared to full costs. 

All admitted students, including international applicants, are considered for need-based assistance without separate applications.

Let’s begin with the internal scholarships available at Princeton.

Internal Scholarships

Princeton offers generous funding for both undergraduate and graduate students through its internal scholarships. All international undergraduates with demonstrated need receive 100% coverage, while Ph.D. candidates are guaranteed full funding throughout their study.

These fully-funded scholarships can significantly reduce your tuition and living expenses during your time at the university.

Now that you’ve seen Princeton’s internal funding options, let’s look at the external study abroad scholarships you can apply for.

External Scholarships

These external scholarships offer vital support for international students, especially if you're not covered by Princeton’s internal funding. Programs like Fulbright scholarships and MPOWER can cover full tuition, provide visa support, and offer living stipends, helping you meet the financial demands of studying in the U.S.

Here are major external scholarships available to Princeton applicants:

Now that you’ve explored scholarship options, let’s turn to placements and employment outcomes at Princeton University.

Princeton graduates see strong outcomes, with 72.3% accepting full-time jobs and 18.4% enrolling in further education within six months of graduation. The university’s Center for Career Development offers tailored job search help, resume feedback, and connects students with alumni across industries. 

Here's an overview of placement services at Princeton University, helping students land jobs and international internships. 

• 72.3% of Princeton graduates accepted full-time employment, and 18.4% enrolled in further education within six months of graduation.
• The Center for Career Development provides job search support, resume reviews, internship guidance, and connects students with alumni networks across sectors.
• 92.8% of the Class of 2019 had secured a post-graduation outcome within six months, either employment, graduate study, or fellowships.
• 22.4% of graduates joined nonprofit or service-based sectors, reflecting strong interest in public service careers.
• Princeton maintains a 5:1 student-faculty ratio, supported by over 1,315 faculty members, ensuring individual academic support.
• 78% of faculty hold tenured positions, contributing to research continuity and mentorship stability.
• Graduate enrollment stands at 3,225 students, spanning science, engineering, humanities, and public affairs.
• The typical undergraduate intake is around 1,411 students, with a near 50:50 gender split.
• 71.5% of undergraduates receive financial aid, and 21.7% qualify for Pell Grants, showing the university’s commitment to affordability.
• The undergraduate acceptance rate remains highly selective at around 4.5%, 39,644 applied and 1,782 were admitted.
• Princeton’s endowment exceeds $35 billion, allowing it to fund over $4 million per student, one of the highest in the country.
• Research funding reaches $250 million on the main campus and $370 million including external labs.

Now, let’s take a look at the top recruiters at Princeton University that hire the graduates for high paying jobs. 

Top Recruiters at Princeton University

Princeton University is known for preparing students for some of the highest-paying jobs in the world. The university's strong connections with top employers across various industries ensure that its graduates are highly prominent.

Here's a breakdown of the leading companies that recruit Princeton graduates.

• Google: Hires Princeton grads for roles in software engineering, research, and product management across global offices.
• Goldman Sachs: Recruits students for investment banking, risk analysis, and financial strategy positions.
• McKinsey & Company: Selects graduates for consulting roles that involve business analysis and organizational transformation.
• Amazon: Offers roles in operations, product development, and cloud computing to Princeton alumni.
• JPMorgan Chase: Employs graduates in areas like financial services, technology, and risk management.
• Facebook (Meta): Brings in students for roles in data science, AI research, and software engineering.
• Apple: Hires graduates to work on hardware design, software development, and user experience teams.
• Morgan Stanley: Offers placements in wealth management, capital markets, and investment analysis.
• Deloitte: Recruits for consulting roles in strategy, tech implementation, and public policy advisory.
• Bloomberg: Employs graduates in financial analytics, media research, and economic data services.

Once you know about the top recruiters, it's time to explore student life at Princeton University.

Princeton University offers a dynamic campus life, deeply integrated into its education system in the USA. With over 500 student organizations, including more than 300 student-run clubs and 38 sports clubs, Princeton ensures there’s something for every student to get involved in. 

98% of undergraduates live on campus, improving the sense of community and offering a truly immersive college experience. 

Here’s a breakdown of the spirited activities and organizations you can be part of at Princeton.

• Over 500 student organizations cover academics, service, arts, politics, and identity groups, offering something for every interest.
• More than 300 student-run clubs include historic groups like the Princeton Nassoons (a cappella, est. 1941) and Princeton Model Congress.
• 38 student sports clubs complement Princeton’s 37 varsity athletic teams and a range of intramural activities.
• The Daily Princetonian, founded in 1876, has a staff of about 200 students and draws 30,000 daily web visitors.
• WPRB, Princeton’s FM station, is the oldest licensed college radio in the U.S., run entirely by students.
• Princeton Triangle Club, founded in 1891, writes and stages an original musical each year and tours nationally.
• The University Press Club, active since 1900, is the only student-run freelance journalism group in the U.S.
• 98% of undergraduates live on campus in one of seven residential colleges with shared dining, advising, and events.
• About 68% of juniors and seniors participate in eating clubs, which offer social and dining experiences with aid available.
• Campus traditions include the Cannon Green bonfire, Step Sing, and the symbolic walk through FitzRandolph Gates at graduation.

Now that you have a sense of Princeton's lively student life, it's time to explore some of the most notable alumni of Princeton University.

Princeton University has produced an impressive array of leaders across various fields, with over 98,800 alumni worldwide contributing to global advancements. The university's commitment to cultivating leadership is reflected in its distinguished alumni who have shaped politics, business, science, law, and more. 

Here’s a look at some of the most influential individuals who have graduated from Princeton.

Now that you’ve learned about Princeton’s influential alumni, let’s compare Princeton University with Columbia University and Northwestern University to see which is the best fit for your academic and career aspirations.

Princeton University, ranked 25th in the QS Rankings 2026, offers 50+ programs with popular degrees like MBA and MS in Computer Science. 

The average salary after graduation is $87,815 (INR 75.25L), and it provides the Daniel M. Sachs ’60 Global Scholarship. Princeton’s graduation rate is 80%, making it a strong choice for those pursuing leadership roles.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you make a more informed decision:

Princeton offers specialized programs and strong post-graduation prospects, with a focus on leadership and career development.

The average cost of living in the USA for a Princeton student is approximately $38,500 per year, or INR 33.1L. This includes housing, food, transportation, and health insurance. Understanding the full cost of living in the USA is crucial when budgeting for your studies at Princeton University.

Here’s a breakdown of annual living expenses:

Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Now that you understand the living expenses, let’s explore the scholarships that can help cover these costs at Princeton.

According to U.S. News and World Report, the Princeton University acceptance rate is 6%. This means that for every 100 applicants, only 6 are accepted into the university. Overall, Princeton University accepted 5,590 undergraduate students and 3,292 graduate students for fall 2023 enrolment.

Princeton University sets its fees based on program type and funding structure. For example, a Master's in Engineering costs $65,210 (INR 55.89 L) in tuition plus a $3,800 (INR 3.25 L) health plan, totalling $69,010 (INR 59.14 L) per year. 

Here’s an overview of tuition and funding at Princeton:

Up next, look at the total cost of studying at Princeton University in 2025.