Brown University: Admissions Guide 2026 | Requirements & Majors

Are you dreaming of joining one of the most prestigious Ivy League universities in the world? Brown University stands out as a unique institution that combines academic excellence with incredible flexibility. But what makes Brown different from other top-tier schools, and how can you increase your chances of admission?

Brown University is the seventh-oldest college in the United States, founded in 1764 in Providence, Rhode Island. As an independent, coeducational Ivy League institution, Brown is widely regarded for its high academic standards, selective admissions, and social prestige. However, what truly distinguishes Brown is its revolutionary Open Curriculum – the first Ivy League school to admit students regardless of religious affiliation.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover everything about Brown University: from admission requirements and SAT/ACT scores to tuition costs, popular majors, and campus life. Whether you're from the UK, Australia, Canada, or anywhere else in the world, this guide will help you understand what it takes to join this exceptional institution.

Brown University Admission Requirements

Academic Excellence and GPA Requirements

Getting admitted to Brown University is extremely competitive. For the 2024–2025 cycle, Brown reported an overall acceptance rate of 5.38%, making it one of the most selective universities in the world. This means less than 6 out of every 100 applicants receive admission offers.

Key academic requirements include:

• Competitive GPA: A GPA of 3.9 or higher on a 4.0 scale is suggested for competitive applicants

• Rigorous Curriculum: Brown looks for students who took the most challenging high school curriculum available to them

• Honours/Advanced Courses: Strong academic history with high marks in honours or advanced placement (AP) courses

• Minimum GPA: Technically, there's no minimum GPA requirement, but Brown reviews files holistically

Standardized Test Requirements (SAT/ACT)

Important Update: Brown has reinstated standardized testing requirements starting with the Class of 2029. This is a significant change for prospective students.

Test requirements include:

• SAT or ACT Required: Beginning with the 2024-25 admission cycle, Brown requires either SAT or ACT scores

• Superscore Policy: Brown superscores either the SAT or ACT, or both, meaning they take your highest section scores across all test dates

• Competitive SAT Score: 1500+ out of 1600

• Competitive ACT Score: 33+ out of 36

• No Minimum Required: Brown doesn't have minimum test scores, but scores below average shouldn't deter you from applying

Brown joins MIT, Dartmouth, and Yale in bringing back standardized testing after the requirement was suspended during the pandemic.

English Proficiency for International Students

For non-native English speakers applying from international countries (UK, Australia, Canada, India, etc.), Brown requires proof of English proficiency:

Accepted tests and scores:

• TOEFL: 100+ points

• IELTS: 7.5+ points

• Duolingo English Test: 130+ points

Extracurricular Activities and Leadership

Brown appreciates balanced applicants who demonstrate:

• Leadership experience in school or community organizations

• Community service and social impact initiatives

• Research experience or academic projects

• Exceptional contributions in sports, arts, or other areas

Academic Programs & The Open Curriculum

The Revolutionary Open Curriculum

What makes Brown University truly unique is its Open Curriculum – a flexible yet rigorous approach that pushes undergraduates to be deeply creative thinkers and entrepreneurial problem-solvers .

Key features of the Open Curriculum:

• No Required Courses: Students have complete freedom to design their own courses of study

• Student-Centered Learning: You're the driver of your academic experience, surrounded by world-class scholars

• Intellectual Risk-Taking: Brown encourages students to explore unconventional subjects and cross disciplinary boundaries

• Undergraduate Freedom: Students must take responsibility for designing their educational path

Popular Majors and Academic Programs

Brown University offers 51 doctoral programs and 33 master's programs across life and physical sciences, social sciences, arts, and humanities.

Most popular undergraduate majors include:

1. Social Sciences (Economics, Political Science, Psychology)

2. Biological Sciences (Biology, Neuroscience)

3. Engineering (Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering)

4. Interdisciplinary Studies (Cognitive Science, Data Science)

5. Arts and Humanities (English, History, Visual Arts)

Brown contributes in significant and enduring ways to the advancement of knowledge across all fields of study through innovative teaching and groundbreaking research.

Special Programs at Brown

Brown provides undergraduates with distinctive opportunities through special programs:

Brown | RISD Dual Degree Program:

• Five-year program integrating academic and artistic work

• Earn Bachelor of Arts from Brown + Bachelor of Fine Arts from Rhode Island School of Design

Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME):

• Eight-year continuum combining undergraduate and medical school education

• One of the most prestigious direct-medical programs in the world

Tuition Costs & Financial Aid

2025-26 Tuition and Fees

Understanding the financial commitment is crucial when applying to Brown University. Here are the current costs:

Undergraduate Costs (2025-26):

Based on 2025-26 approved tuition increases 

Important Note: Brown raised undergraduate tuition by 4.85% for 2025-26 amid a $46 million deficit.

Financial Aid Options

Brown University offers comprehensive financial aid to ensure students can afford their education:

Financial Aid Features:

• Need-Based Aid: Brown determines financial aid based on family need, not merit

• No Loans Policy: Brown replaces all loan expectations with scholarship funds

• International Students: Eligible for financial aid (limited availability)

• Scholarships: Various merit-based and need-based scholarships available

Application Process:

• Submit CSS/Financial Aid Application

• Brown reviews family financial circumstances holistically

• Award notifications sent with admission decisions

Campus Life at Brown University

Living in Providence, Rhode Island

Brown University has been located in Providence, Rhode Island for over 2.5 centuries, providing memorable academic and student-life experiences in a healthy environment.

Providence offers:

• Historic Charm: One of America's oldest cities with rich colonial history

• Cultural Scene: Art galleries, museums, music venues, and diverse restaurants

• Nearby Cities: Easy access to Boston (1 hour), New York (4 hours), and Montreal (6 hours)

• Safe Community: Tight-knit, inclusive neighborhood with strong student-faculty relationships

Student Life at Brown

Overall, student life at Brown is both balanced and engaging, fostering a tight-knit, inclusive community.

Key aspects of Brown campus life:

• Active, Engaged Lives: Students, faculty, and staff make an impact within a diverse and supportive community

• No Cliques or Elitism: Brown emphasizes inclusivity over social stratification

• Diversity: Strong commitment to racial, economic, and international diversity

• Party Scene: Known for a balanced social environment without excessive pressure

• Dating Culture: Informal and friendly atmosphere

Research and Entrepreneurship

Brown University sponsors numerous fellowship and grant programs supporting:

• Undergraduate Research: During academic year and summer

• Engaged Scholarship: Link social justice passion with academic/career goals

• Entrepreneurship: Nelson Center supports collaborative, cross-disciplinary vision

• Internships: Career exploration giving skills for evolving career pathways

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Application Checklist for First-Year Applicants

Ready to apply to Brown University? Follow this comprehensive checklist:

Required Documents:

1. Complete Common Application (including Brown's supplemental essays)

2.  $80 Application Fee (or fee waiver)

3. Official High School Transcript (sent by school counselor)

4. School Report Form (completed by counselor via Common Application)

5. Counselor Recommendation (separate from School Report)

6. Two Teacher Evaluations (from major academic subjects)

7. SAT or ACT Scores (required starting 2024-25)

8. Midyear School Report & Transcript (by February 27)

9. Final School Report & Transcript (by June 30 if admitted)

Optional Supplements:

• Visual Art Portfolio (via SlideRoom)

• Music Portfolio (via SlideRoom)

• Video Introduction (optional)

Important Application Deadlines

Early Decision (Binding):

• Application Deadline: November 1 (11:59 PM local time)

• Decision Available: Mid-December

• Early Decision Agreement: Required (signatures from applicant, parent, counselor)

Regular Decision (Non-Binding):

• Application Deadline: January 5 (11:59 PM local time)

• Decision Available: Late March

• Commitment Deadline: May 1

QuestBridge Applicants:

• Match Portfolio Deadline: November 4

• Regular Decision Portfolio: January 7

Special Program Applications

If applying to special programs, complete additional essays:

• PLME (Program in Liberal Medical Education): Eight-year medical program

• BRDD (Brown|RISD Dual Degree): Five-year art program 

• Bachelor of Science: Requires math/science teacher recommendation

Key Takeaways

Quick Facts About Brown University:

• Founded: 1764 (7th-oldest college in the US)

• Type: Private Ivy League research university

• Location: Providence, Rhode Island, USA

• Acceptance Rate: 5.38% (extremely selective)

• SAT Score: 1500+ competitive (now required)

• ACT Score: 33+ competitive (now required)

• GPA: 3.9+ on 4.0 scale suggested

• Tuition 2025-26: $71,700 (~$93,064 total annual cost)

• Curriculum: Revolutionary Open Curriculum (no required courses)

• Programs: 51 doctoral + 33 master's programs

Conclusion

Brown University represents a unique opportunity for ambitious students seeking personalised, research-driven education within one of the world's most prestigious institutions. With its revolutionary Open Curriculum, incredibly selective 5.38% acceptance rate, and reinstated SAT/ACT requirements, Brown stands out as both challenging and endlessly rewarding.

FAQs

 

1. What GPA do you need for Brown University?

While Brown has no minimum GPA requirement, a competitive GPA is 3.9 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Brown reviews files holistically and looks for students who took the most rigorous curriculum available to them. Most admitted students have near-perfect grades in challenging courses.

2. How much does Brown University cost per year?

For 2025-26, total annual cost is approximately $93,064, including:

• Tuition: $71,700

• Room: $10,410

• Board: $8,104

• Fees: ~$2,850

Brown offers comprehensive need-based financial aid with no loan expectations.

3. What makes Brown University different from other Ivy League schools?

Brown's Open Curriculum is unique among Ivy League schools – it has no required courses, giving students complete freedom to design their education. Brown was also the first Ivy League school to admit students regardless of religious affiliation. This flexible, student-centered approach attracts independent thinkers.

4. When is the Brown University application deadline?

Early Decision deadline: November 1 (binding)
Regular Decision deadline: January 5 (non-binding)

Early Decision decisions come mid-December; Regular Decision decisions arrive late March. Commitment deadline for Regular Decision is May 1.

5. Do international students need TOEFL/IELTS for Brown University?

Yes, international students (non-native English speakers) must demonstrate English proficiency with:

• TOEFL: 100+ points

• IELTS: 7.5+ points

• Duolingo: 130+ points

International students are also eligible for financial aid (limited availability).