Applying to Princeton University is a thorough process designed to give the admissions committee a complete picture of who you are. The University uses a holistic review approach, looking beyond just grades and scores to see your unique talents, background, and potential contributions to the campus community. This guide breaks down the process into clear, manageable steps.

The Application Platform: Starting Point

Princeton accepts applications from two main platforms. You only need to use one of these:

1. The Common Application
2. The Coalition Application

Once you select Princeton on your chosen platform, you will automatically gain access to the required Princeton-specific Questions and supplemental essays, which are a vital part of your application.

Key Components of Your Application

The application process is framed around three main actions: Submit, Request, and Report. Below are the required materials for first-year applicants:

1. Submit Directly

You must submit these components yourself:

1. Completed Application (through the Common or Coalition Application).
2. Princeton-specific Questions and Essays.
3. Application Fee or Fee Waiver.
4. Graded Written Paper: A required paper, preferably from an English, history, or social studies course taken in your last three years of secondary school.

2. Request from Your School Officials

You must arrange for your school officials to send these items:

1. Official Transcript/Academic Record (sent by your school counselor or official).
2. School Report (SR) (completed and submitted by your school counselor).
3. Counselor Recommendation.
4. Two (2) Teacher Recommendations: These must come from teachers who taught you in different core academic subjects.
5. Midyear School Report (submitted by your counselor when your midyear grades become available).

3. Report/Optional Materials

1. Standardized Tests (SAT/ACT): Princeton currently has a test-optional policy. If you choose to submit scores, they will be reviewed.
2. English Proficiency Tests: Required for international students if English is not their native language. Acceptable tests include:
3. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
4. International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic)
5. Duolingo English Test (DET)
6. Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
7. Optional Arts Supplement: For students involved in visual arts, music, dance, etc.
8. Interview: An optional step offered based on local alumni availability.

Key Dates and Deadlines

Princeton offers two primary application tracks for first-year students. All materials are due by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the deadline date.

1. Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA)

1. Application Due: November 1
2. Financial Aid Forms Due: Early November
3. Decision Notification: Mid-December

Understanding SCEA: SCEA is nonbinding, meaning you are not obligated to attend if admitted. However, it is restrictive: you cannot apply to an early action or early decision program at any other private U.S. college. You can apply early to any public institution, international institution, or a college with nonbinding rolling admission.

2. Regular Decision (RD)

1. Application Due: January 1
2. Financial Aid Forms Due: Early February
3. Decision Notification: Late March

Applying as a Transfer Student

Princeton's Transfer Program is designed for a small group of exceptionally well-prepared students, particularly those from community colleges and U.S. military veterans.

1. Application Due: Typically March 1
2. Financial Aid Forms Due: Typically early March
3. Decision Notification: Mid-May

Transfer applicants use the Common Application and must meet similar requirements, including submitting a graded written paper and recommendations.

References

1. https://admission.princeton.edu/apply
2. https://admission.princeton.edu/apply/international-students
3. https://admission.princeton.edu/apply/standardized-testing
4. https://admission.princeton.edu/apply/first-year-application-dates-deadlines
5. https://admission.princeton.edu/apply/application-dates-deadlines/transfer-application-dates-deadlines
6. https://admission.princeton.edu/apply/application-checklist
7. https://admission.princeton.edu/apply/application-checklist/transfer-application-checklist