How to get into Princeton University from India?

20 min read

Princeton University, founded in 1746 as the College of New Jersey, has a rich tradition of educating students dedicated to public service and the communities they’re involved in. The Princeton community is so tightly knit that every year, graduates come back to reunite. Some well-known Princeton alumni include Woodrow Wilson, John F. Kennedy, and Michelle Obama.

As of August 21, 2023, the enrolled Class of 2027 at Princeton University consists of 1,366 students, with 14% of the class being international citizens representing 64 countries, including India.

Over the last ten years, Princeton University has seen a big change in the number of students who apply and the difficulty of getting accepted.

From 2013 to 2027, the number of students applying to Princeton has gone up bit by bit. Over this time, yearly applications have grown from around 26,500 to 39,644, which is almost 50% more. This shows that more and more people are interested in going to this top university. 

Despite it being harder to get accepted, it’s important to stay positive, keep working hard toward your academic dreams, and boost your knowledge on how to get into Princeton University.

If you’ve been researching Princeton University’s acceptance rate, you’re not alone. Many students have done the same before you and successfully gained admission to this prestigious university. With the right guidance, you, too, can achieve this goal. 

This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with detailed guidance on how to get into Princeton University from India, Princeton University fees for Indian students, when to apply, and more. 

Key Highlights

This table highlights the key components you need to know about how to get into Princeton University and start your study journey in the US. 

Aspect	Details
Princeton University IELTS Score Requirement	8 on the speaking sub-section
Princeton University Eligibility Criteria	Online application via the Coalition Application or Common Application. 2 teacher recommendationGraded papers such as essays
Princeton University Acceptance Rate for Class of 2027	4.5%
Princeton University Fees for Indian Students	INR 72L ($86,700)
How to get into Princeton University?	Achieve a high GPA (3.9 or higher)Lead extracurricularsCraft strong application

Please note: Eligibility criteria and costs can vary depending on the university and program. 

What are the Top 4 Benefits of Studying at Princeton University?

Did you know: Princeton University welcomes applications globally and reviews all submissions equally, irrespective of citizenship or residency?

At Princeton, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with students from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Additionally, comprehensive programs will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed personally and professionally.

Needless to say, when you learn how to get into Princeton University, you learn that it offers numerous advantages that set it apart as one of the premier universities not just in the USA but globally. 

So, before you know how to get into Princeton University, here’s a refresher on the key benefits of studying here. Have a look. 

1. Academic Excellence: Ranked 22 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, Princeton University’s reputation speaks for itself. Princeton is also recognised as one of the leading research universities globally, affiliated with over 40 Nobel laureates, 17 recipients of the National Medal of Science, and 5 awardees of the National Humanities Medal.
2. Prestigious Reputation: Being part of Princeton University means joining one of the oldest universities in the United States. Founded before the American Revolution as one of nine colonial colleges, Princeton University is a private Ivy League research university established in 1746 in Elizabeth under the name College of New Jersey.
3. Personal Growth: Life at Princeton University is enriching academically and personally. The campus covers 500 acres and features around 180 buildings, including 10 libraries with about 14 million items. 

With over 500 student organisations led by students with university support, you can participate in activities ranging from music, dance, politics, and debate to community service, social events, and cultural pursuits. If you don’t find a group that matches your interests, you have the opportunity to start your own once you understand how to get into Princeton University. 

4. Career Advancement: Princeton University ranks 6th in the Global Employability University Ranking 2023-24, highlighting its reputation as one of the top universities for graduate job placements. 

For instance, according to research by the Wall Street Journal, graduates of Princeton University working in finance earn an annual salary premium of over INR 32L ($39,000) compared to the *median salary of B.A. graduates.

*Please Note: Median salary is the midpoint where half earn more and half earn less, reflecting typical earnings in a group.

How to Get Into Princeton University from India?

Now that you have the ‘why’ figured out, it’s time to catch the snake by its tail – how to get into Princeton University? 

Princeton, similar to other Ivy League universities, has a holistic admission process. This means that while academic excellence is crucial, it is not the only factor considered. The admissions committee will evaluate your standardised test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and other relevant aspects.

Also, do you know that Princeton University meets the full financial need of all admitted international students on the same basis as students from the United States? Approximately 61% of students at Princeton qualified for financial aid, demonstrating the university’s commitment to encouraging all qualified students, regardless of financial circumstances, to apply for admission.

How to Get into Princeton University After 12th? 

Looking to pursue your degree at Princeton University? Discovering how to get into Princeton University opens a world of academic excellence and professional opportunities. Many aspiring students like you must wonder about the journey, from getting through admissions requirements to financing their dreams. 

With options like the Leap Finance loan, your aspirations for higher education can become a reality, but first, master the path on how to get into Princeton University. Time to explore the essential steps and insider tips for securing your spot at this prestigious institution.

Step 1: Focus on Making Your High School GPA Better

When reviewing your academic record while learning how to get into Princeton University, consider the courses you’ve taken and the grades you’ve earned in the context of your school’s curriculum and educational system. 

Your transcript should include internal grades from classes and marks from external exams like IGCSE, British A-Level, International Baccalaureate, or national leaving exams (such as Std X/Std XII in India), or a combination of both. 

Keep in mind that the average high school GPA of admitted students at Princeton University is around 4.0. This suggests that most successful students received predominantly A grades in high school. Specifically, 60% of admitted students had a GPA of 4.0 or higher. 

Step 2: Focus on Standardised Test Scores

Although Princeton has adopted a test-optional policy until at least the admission cycle of 2025, strong SAT and ACT scores can still enhance your application. Achieving high scores on these tests can significantly enhance your application, setting you apart in the competitive pool of students.

That said, the optional test policy likely led to more applications as students felt less pressured by the need to include test scores.

Here are the details regarding SAT and ACT score requirements.

Particulars	Details
SAT	1,500 to 1,580
ACT	34 to 35

Meanwhile, one-quarter of admitted students scored higher than these ranges, and another quarter scored below them.

Moreover, suppose English is not your native language and you attend a school where English is not the primary language of instruction. In that case, you must take either TOEFL, IELTS Academic or PTE Academic. However, you are exempt from taking the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic if English is your native language or if you have studied for at least 3 years at a secondary school where English is the main language of instruction. 

Here are the details regarding IELTS and TOEFL score requirements.

Particulars	Details
IELTS	28 on the spoken part
TOEFL	8 on the speaking sub-section

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Step 3: Make Your Extracurricular Activities Game Stronger

You’d be delighted to know that Princeton athletes have won 224 National Championships, and 137 Princetonians have competed in the Olympics.

Goes without saying that extracurricular activities are crucial when planning to get into Princeton University. It is a great opportunity to distinguish yourself from other students and highlight your interests, skills, and talents outside of academics. When selecting extracurricular activities, focus on those that demonstrate your abilities and passions effectively.

The admission committee at Princeton looks for students with diverse interests and a genuine enthusiasm for learning activities that extend beyond classroom settings.

Step 4: Pay Special Attention to Essays

The college essay is crucial for your Princeton University application. It’s a chance to showcase your personality, writing skills, and how you fit with the university. Admissions officers seek well-written, authentic essays that reveal who you are and what sets you apart.

What is essential here is to choose a topic that reflects your personality, interests, and viewpoint. Moreover, ensure your essay is your work and reflects your best self. Remember, intellectual integrity is vital at Princeton, and submitting someone else’s work, even if found online, can hamper your application.

For example, for B.S.E. degree students, a specific Princeton question is: Explain your interest in studying engineering at Princeton. Describe your engineering experiences and how Princeton’s programs match your specific interests. (Please limit your response to 250 words or fewer).

Step 5: Get Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters play a vital role in the Princeton admissions process. They highlight achievements, strengths, and unique qualities that make your application stand out. These letters also give valuable insights into your character, work ethic, and potential contributions to the Princeton community.

How to Get into Princeton University for a Master’s Degree? 

Exploring how to get into Princeton University for a Master’s degree reveals a gateway to unparalleled academic achievement and professional growth. Aspiring students like you will often question the process, from satisfying admission requirements to finding ways to finance their education. 

But here are the essential steps and insider tips for securing your spot here. 

Step 1: Meet Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Master’s degree at Princeton University, you must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Additionally, you need to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above for most courses. Demonstrating proficiency in English is also essential, which can be shown through IELTS scores of 8.0.

Step 2: Prepare for the Application Process

To apply for a Master’s program at Princeton, use the Princeton University Graduate Portal. An application fee of INR 6.2k (USD 75) is required. Ensure you have the following documents ready for submission:

• Essay
• Two letters of recommendation
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Transcripts
• Fall Semester Grades
• Statement of Financial Resources
• Statement of Purpose

Step 3: Submit Test Scores

Strong test scores can enhance your application. Here are the details regarding the GMAT and GRE score requirements. 

Particulars	Details
GMAT	600-720+
GRE	Quantitative section: 163+Verbal section: 161+

Step 4: Follow the Application Timeline

The application period for graduate programs at Princeton typically starts in the fall semester, with no admissions for the spring semester. Make sure to submit your application within this timeframe to be considered.

Princeton University Acceptance Rate for Indian Students

Now that you know how to get into Princeton University, it’s time to get an idea of how many students have made it to this prestigious university already. This will give you an idea of the kind of competition you’re set up against. 

Although official data is not available, looking at previous application trends, student enrollment rates, and statements from officials hinting at stabilising enrollment growth, it is estimated that the acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 could be around 4%. 

Here is a table showing the Princeton University acceptance rate for the past 5 years.

Class	Number of Applications	Overall Acceptance Rate
2028*	39,800*	4.5%*
2027	39,644	4.5%
2026	38,019	5.7%
2025	37,601	4.4%
2024	32,836	5.6%

*Please note: These are estimated figures. 

The acceptance rate at Princeton has decreased from 5.78% five years ago to 4.5% two years ago, and it’s expected to stay around the same for the Class of 2028.

However, it’s important to recognise that while you think about how to get into Princeton University, the overall acceptance rate is just one aspect of the admissions process. Understanding this can help you manage your application process seamlessly. 

What Princeton University Seeks in Prospective Students? 

Princeton University, a prestigious Ivy League institution, is a dream for students worldwide. It is celebrated not only for its challenging academic programs but also for its deep history, lively community, and exceptional faculty. While you now know that gaining admission to Princeton is known to be challenging, it is achievable with adequate preparation.

Read on to learn what Princeton University looks for in prospective students. 

1. Academic Achievement: Princeton values students who have done well academically. This means getting good grades in challenging courses, scoring high on tests like the SAT or ACT, and consistently performing well throughout high school.

Before beginning your studies at Princeton, you are expected to have completed the following coursework.

• Four years of English, with continued emphasis on writing skills.
• Four years of mathematics, including calculus, for those interested in engineering.
• Four years of one language.
• Engineering students should have at least two years of laboratory science, including physics and chemistry.
• At least two years of history.

It is also recommended that, whenever possible, challenge yourself with rigorous courses such as honours, Advanced Placement (AP), or dual-enrollment courses. The university will assess the International Baccalaureate (IB), A-levels, or other diploma programs within the context of your school’s curriculum.

2. Intellectual Curiosity: Princeton favours students who are eager to learn and show a strong interest in knowledge. This could mean enjoying reading and taking part in academic contests or research.

3. Leadership and Initiative: The university appreciates those who take charge of leadership roles. This might involve leading clubs or teams, volunteering, or gaining work experience.

4. Cultural Contribution: The university looks for students who will add to the diversity and energy of campus life. Demonstrate your commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding through organising multicultural events or joining diversity-focused clubs.

Pro Tip: Instead of focusing solely on meeting specific requirements, aim to craft an application that allows the university to see your accomplishments both in and out of the classroom.

Princeton University Eligibility Criteria 

Learning how to get into Princeton University is half the battle; the other half is understanding the eligibility criteria for this university. If that’s been on your mind, too, this section is a goldmine of answers. 

Did you know that small class sizes and a student-faculty ratio of 5:1 at Princeton University allow for strong academic relationships between students and professors? 

For the first-year application checklist for undergraduate admission at Princeton, you must submit the following.

• You must complete the online application and submit it via the Coalition Application or Common Application. 
• Ensure that you submit the *“Princeton-specific Questions” along with your application through the Coalition Application or Common Application website.
• Provide an application fee or request a fee waiver. You can request a fee waiver through the Coalition Application or Common Application or choose from specific fee waiver options like Princeton-specific, ACT, College Board, or NACAC. Low-income students and U.S. military veterans are eligible for the Princeton-specific fee waiver.
• Include a graded written paper, ideally from subjects like English or history, as part of your application materials.
• The university accepts graded papers such as essays, research papers, or essay exams, preferring expository writing over creative writing. Each paper should ideally be one to two pages in length. Additionally, it should include the grade assigned by your course instructor and any comments they provided, if available.
• 2 teacher recommendations are required from instructors of advanced courses (e.g., AP, IB Higher/Standard Level, A-Levels).
• Your school counsellor or another school official should complete and submit the School Report (SR) form via Coalition or Common Application.
• An official transcript must be sent directly by the school counsellor or school official.

*Please note: The Princeton-specific questions are additional prompts and sections that Princeton University requires you to complete in addition to your main application (Coalition Application, Common Application, or QuestBridge Application). 

To be eligible for the Master’s programme, you must note the following.

• You must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university before enrolling at Princeton. Please note that International bachelor’s degrees may vary in program length but must generally be at least 4 years.
• You may submit only one application per year to one department, program, or combined program.

Please note: The Graduate School does not admit students seeking a second Ph.D. in the same or similar field.

Princeton University Fees for Indian Students

Princeton University offers 63 undergraduate minors, interdisciplinary certificate programs, and 10 master’s degree programs. 

Furthermore, Princeton University’s average freshman retention rate, which reflects student satisfaction, is 94%.

Some of Princeton University’s popular majors are as follows.  

• Social Sciences
• Engineering
• Computer and Information Sciences
• Public Administration
• Foreign Languages and Linguistics

Now that you’ve come this far, it’s evident that you’re serious about gaining admission to Princeton University. That said, it is essential to understand the Princeton University fees for Indian students. 

The total cost of attendance at Princeton University includes tuition, housing, food, and estimated additional expenses. The university provides various payment options to accommodate families’ financial circumstances.

The cost of attendance for the 2024-25 academic year totals approximately INR 72L ($86,700). 

Here are the details of what the cost covers.

Particulars	Details
Tuition	INR 52L ($62,400)
Housing	INR 9.9L ($11,910)
Food	INR 6.9L ($8,340)
Miscellaneous*	INR 3.3L ($4,050)

*Please note: The estimated miscellaneous expenses include activities fees and class dues.

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Placements After Graduating From the Princeton University

Princeton University graduates have access to a wide range of prestigious career opportunities. On average, they earn approximately INR 85L ($1,02,000) per year.

What’s more? Princeton University contributes more than $2 billion annually to the region’s economy. Moreover, the University has had 24 alumni who have won the Nobel Prize. As a student at Princeton University, you can be just as successful as the 24 golden students by taking guidance from the following resources. 

1. Campus Recruiting Programme: At Princeton University, the Campus Recruiting Programme brings over 100 organisations each year for events like information sessions, coffee chats, and career education programs. These events help you learn about internships and job opportunities.
2. Career Fairs: These fairs allow you to meet with companies and alumni looking to hire Princeton students for full-time jobs and summer internships.

For example, you can be a part of the Fall Career Fair Prep Session at 4:30 pm on September 11, 2024. 

3. Information sessions over Coffee: The career development wing at Princeton hosts information sessions where employers talk about their organisation’s mission, work, and workplace culture. 

Coffee chats let you connect one-on-one with employers to ask about careers and applications. They’re informal but great for exploring careers and building your professional network.

Here are some top high-paying jobs that you can land within the campus itself after graduating from Princeton University. 

Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Executive Director	INR 1.33 Cr – INR 2.23 Cr (USD 162k – USD 271k)
Senior Storage Engineer (& Data)	INR 1.07 Cr – INR 1.42 Cr (USD 130k – USD 173k)
Senior Storage Engineer	INR 1.07 Cr – INR 1.42 Cr (USD 130k – USD 173k)
Senior Associate Director, Research Development	INR 74L – INR 1.24 Cr (USD 90k – USD 151k)
Manager, Maintenance Infrastructure	INR 89L – INR 1.33 Cr (USD 108k – USD 162k)

Top Companies Hiring Princeton Graduates

Princeton graduates are in high demand among top companies worldwide in industries like technology, finance and consulting, and healthcare and pharmaceuticals. This diverse range of leading employers reflects the high demand for the skills and knowledge that Princeton graduates bring to the table. 

Here are some of the key recruiters for Princeton University graduates, along with average salaries.

Company	Average Annual Salary
Microsoft	INR 1.76 Cr (USD 212k)
Google	INR 1.56 Cr (USD 187k)
Facebook (Meta)	INR 3.15 Cr Cr (USD 379k)
Schlumberger	INR 1.26 Cr (USD 152k)
Merck	INR 1.39 Cr  (USD 167k)
Goldman Sachs	INR 1.59 Cr (USD 191k)
McKinsey & Company	INR 1.94 Cr (USD 233k)
JPMorgan Chase	INR 1.31 Cr (USD 157k)

Top 3 Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Princeton University

Did you know that admissions for the Class of 2027, in 2023, saw a total of 39,644 applicants, with 9,402 of them being international students? Out of these, 1,782 students were admitted, including 226 international students. 

What is it that these students did differently from their peers who didn’t make it to Princeton? Well, they knew of some additional tips on top of decoding the basics of how to get into Princeton university – so will you after going through this section.

Here are some of the best tips to boost your chances. 

1. Apply Early: Do you know students who apply in Princeton’s early round could experience an acceptance rate approximately 3 times higher than the overall acceptance rate? In addition, applying early means you’re competing with a smaller pool of student applications. 

By doing so, you position yourself as one of the first students to be considered for admission, giving you an advantage in the process.

2. Highlight Your Unique Perspective: Highlighting your distinct experiences and viewpoints adds depth to your application. It helps the admissions committee understand who you are and what you bring to the Princeton community.

With thousands of applications each year, many share similar academic and extracurricular achievements. Showcasing your unique perspective sets you apart and illustrates what makes you unique. For instance, you can demonstrate how your perspective aligns with Princeton’s values of diversity and community contribution.

3. Opt for Challenging Courses: Choosing challenging coursework can greatly enhance your prospects for admission to Princeton University. However, it’s crucial only to select difficult courses if you’re confident in your ability to succeed. Struggling through a tough class and receiving a low grade can negatively affect your GPA.

Princeton University Scholarships for International Students

Princeton University is dedicated to ensuring that education is accessible to all. The university offers one of the most generous financial aid programs for undergraduates in the country, providing aid primarily in the form of grants that do not require repayment. 

This commitment allows undergraduates to graduate from Princeton without accumulating debt. Additionally, graduate students at Princeton also receive substantial financial support during their studies.

However, it is important to note that Princeton’s financial aid program is solely need-based. The university does not provide academic or athletic merit scholarships. 

Isn’t it remarkable that 66% of the class of 2027 students received financial aid, and 83% of recent seniors graduated without any debt?

With that in mind, it’s important to understand how the university assesses financial need.

• Princeton University practises need-blind admission, which means applying for financial aid does not disadvantage applicants.
• Talents and achievements are considered only for admission purposes and not for determining financial aid.
• Your financial need will be evaluated individually, taking into account unique family circumstances.

Conclusion

Your reasons for choosing Princeton are as special as the school itself. Whether it’s the wide range of undergraduate opportunities, generous financial aid, top-notch teaching and research facilities, or the close community spirit, Princeton offers it all.

If you’re dedicated, curious, and enthusiastic about your passions, Princeton could be the ideal university for you to pursue your degree.

Studying at Princeton University has become a dream for many students. While the experts at LeapScholar have covered everything in detail in this guide, if you need more guidance on how to get into Princeton University, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. LeapScholar offers expert counselling with a team boasting over 50 years of combined experience in helping students study abroad. Ready to take the leap? Book a free counselling session today!

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