Princeton
Princeton University · Princeton, New Jersey · Private
Princeton admitted 4.4% of 42,303 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1490–1560 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 97% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at Princeton
Enter a score to see whether Princeton is a reach, target or likely school for you.
It admits 4.4% of applicants, so it’s a reach for everyone, even with perfect scores.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more.
Early decision and early action
Princeton offers restrictive early action but didn’t report its early admit rate.
1,370 students were offered a spot on the waitlist, 1,086 took it, and 36 were admitted from it.
What admissions weighs
How Princeton rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- Class rank
- GPA
- Test scores
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Activities
- Talent or ability
- Character
Important
- –
Considered
- Interview
- First generation
- Legacy
- Where you live
- Volunteering
- Work experience
Not considered
- State residency
- Religion
- Showing interest
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.96 GPA.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $84,040 a year. After grants, students paid $19,811 on average.
Average price after grants, by family income:
Not sure which colleges fit?
A Clarity Prep mentor builds a balanced list with your student and checks in every week until it’s done.
Writing your essay? Try the free college essay grader.