Brown University's Student Recruitment: Who Gets Recruited?

Brown University's admission process is holistic and contextual, and the university does not use formulas or believe that any formula would accurately capture the academic ability and personal qualities they value most. The admission process challenges the university to discover how each applicant would contribute to and benefit from its lively academic culture. The university considers applicants' unique talents, accomplishments, energy, curiosity, perspective, and identity and how they might fit into the ever-changing tapestry that is Brown University. Brown University does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, colour, religion, age, disability, status as a veteran, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression in its admissions policies.

Brown University's application process

Application Platform

Applications to Brown University are typically submitted online via the Common Application. This platform guides applicants through the process of providing supporting credentials based on their status as first-year or transfer students. The Common Application is divided into three sections: general information, Brown University-specific questions, and school forms submitted by counsellors and academic instructors.

Application Fee

There is a $75 non-refundable application fee for applying to Brown University. However, the university offers application fee waivers for students from low-income backgrounds or those enrolled in specific federal, state, or local programs. Applicants can select the "Brown Specific Fee Waiver" option in the "Brown Questions" section of the Common Application.

Biographical Information

The application process requires submitting forms with biographical information. This includes personal details and academic background.

Standardized Testing

Brown University requires applicants to take and submit scores from standardized tests. While there are no minimum test scores required for admission, the university considers these scores in the context of the applicant's educational background, socioeconomic status, and access to well-equipped testing centres.

Academic Information and Recommendations

As part of the application process, Brown University requires applicants' high schools to submit academic information, including transcripts and teacher recommendations. The university reviews these materials holistically, considering not only grades but also the skills associated with learning, such as curiosity, problem-solving, and openness to different viewpoints.

Personal Essays

Applicants are required to write several personal essays as part of their application. These essays allow the university to assess the applicant's interests, experiences, and fit for Brown's academic culture. There are specific essay questions for first-year and transfer applicants, as well as additional essays for applicants to certain special programs, such as the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) and the Brown-Rhode Island School of Design Dual Degree Program (BRDD).

Deadlines

Brown University has two application deadlines: Early Decision, with a deadline of November 1st, and Regular Decision, with a deadline of January 3rd. Applicants are advised to submit all application materials by these deadlines.

Interviews

Brown University does not offer alumni interviews as part of its application process. However, applicants are encouraged to submit a two-minute video introduction to share more about themselves and their interest in attending Brown.

Notification of Admission Decision

Once an admission decision has been made, applicants will be notified via email. They can then log into their Brown Applicant Portal to view the decision.

Preparing for Brown

While there are no specific course requirements for admission, Brown University recommends that applicants take a rigorous curriculum across various academic disciplines. This includes English, math, science, history, and a second language. The university suggests that applicants challenge themselves with advanced courses, such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, if available.

In summary, the Brown University application process is comprehensive and seeks to evaluate applicants holistically. The process considers various components, including biographical information, standardized test scores, academic records, teacher recommendations, and personal essays. Applicants are encouraged to meet the application deadlines and take advantage of the opportunity to submit a video introduction.

Application requirements

Brown University's application process is holistic and contextual, requiring several different components. The process includes submitting forms with biographical information, writing personal essays, meeting deadlines, taking and submitting standardised tests, and ensuring that your school submits teacher recommendations and academic information.

There are no specific course requirements for admission to Brown, but most successful applicants demonstrate preparation for university-level studies through a rigorous curriculum across academic disciplines throughout secondary school. Brown expects applicants to take a minimum of four academically rigorous courses, preferably five, across a range of core subjects each year throughout secondary school. These include English language and literature, maths, the sciences, history, and a second language.

The application deadlines are as follows:

• Early Decision: 11:59 pm (applicant's local time) on November 1.
• Regular Decision: 11:59 pm (applicant's local time) on January 3.

The application fee is $75, but fee waivers are available for those who meet certain criteria.

All Brown undergraduate applicants, except for US military veterans and those applying to the Resumed Undergraduate Education (RUE) program, should apply online via the Common Application. US military veterans should apply using the Veterans Application, and RUE applicants should use the RUE Application.

As part of the application, you will need to submit the following:

• Official high school transcript
• School Report
• Midyear School Report and Transcript
• Counselor Recommendation
• Two Teacher Evaluations/Recommendations from teachers in major academic subjects
• Final School Report and Transcript
• First Quarter/Trimester Grades
• Early Decision Agreement (if applicable)

Application deadlines

Brown University has two application deadlines for first-year applicants: an Early Decision deadline and a Regular Decision deadline. The Early Decision deadline is designed for applicants who are certain that Brown University is their first choice and that they would definitely accept an offer of admission. The Regular Decision deadline is the more popular option, chosen by most first-year applicants.

The Early Decision application deadline is 11:59 pm (applicant's local time) on November 1. Early Decision applicants will receive a decision by mid-December. The Regular Decision application deadline is 11:59 pm (applicant's local time) on January 3. Regular Decision applicants will receive a decision by early April.

All applicants, except U.S. military veterans and those applying to the Resumed Undergraduate Education (RUE) program, should apply online via the Common Application. U.S. military veterans should apply using the Veterans Application, and RUE applicants should use the RUE Application.

In addition to the application, applicants are required to submit a number of supplementary materials, including official transcripts, school reports, letters of recommendation, and application fees or fee waivers. These materials must be submitted by the same deadlines as the application.

It is important to note that Brown University does not have minimum test scores required for admission, and applicants should not be deterred by scores that may be below average. The university considers testing in context, taking into account multiple factors such as educational background, socioeconomic status, and accessibility to well-equipped testing centers.

Application fees

Brown University requires a $75 application fee for undergraduate applications, which is non-refundable. However, the university offers application fee waivers for eligible students.

The Brown Specific Fee Waiver is automatically applied for students enrolled in or eligible for the Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch program (FRPL). It also applies to students enrolled in federal, state, or local programs supporting low-income families, such as TRIO Programs. Additionally, Brown automatically waives the fee for students belonging to community-based or college access organizations that promote educational opportunities for low-income students.

Students who do not meet the above criteria but believe they may qualify for a fee waiver can select the Brown Specific Fee Waiver option in the "Brown Questions" section of the Common Application. They may also submit a fee waiver request form from College Board or NACAC, or their school counsellor may email a letter of support to documents@brown.edu.

The application fee (or fee waiver) is submitted through the Common Application, along with Brown's supplemental essays.

Preparing for Brown

Brown University is an Ivy League university with a unique Open Curriculum that allows students to shape their education. The Open Curriculum is core to Brown's philosophy of intellectual and individual development, helping students discover their interests and what subjects are meaningful to them. This creates an atmosphere for innovative contributions to research, entrepreneurship, art, and social activism.

If you are preparing for Brown, here are some things to keep in mind:

Academic Preparation

While there are no specific course requirements for admission to Brown, most successful applicants demonstrate preparation for university-level studies through a rigorous curriculum across academic disciplines. Brown expects that students will take a minimum of four academically rigorous courses, preferably five, across a range of core subject areas each year throughout secondary school. These include English language and literature, math, the sciences, history, and a second language. Here are some more specific course recommendations:

• English - 4 years, with a focus on literature and academic writing.
• Math - 4 years, continuing through calculus when possible, especially for students interested in STEM.
• Science - 3-4 years, including 2 years of lab science (biology, physics, and chemistry when possible).
• History and Social Studies - 3-4 years, including courses such as history, government, economics, and politics.
• World Language - 3-4 years, preferably continuing with the same language.
• Electives - Brown also encourages the study of music, art, and other electives.

In addition, it is important to maintain strong grades, especially during your senior year. Your senior year curriculum and performance are important indicators of your potential as a Brown student.

Standardized Tests

Brown University requires standardized test scores as part of the application process. For the SAT, a score between 1510 and 1570 is considered competitive, with the higher end of this range being more desirable. For the ACT, a score of 35 or above is expected.

Extracurricular Activities and Personal Qualities

Brown University values more than just academic excellence. They look for students who are highly motivated, curious, and diverse. Relevant extracurricular activities and personal qualities are important factors in the admissions process. Demonstrating a track record of being self-driven and eager to learn will make you a strong candidate for Brown's Open Curriculum.

Application Process

The application process for Brown University is holistic, and they consider various factors beyond just grades and test scores. Here are some key things to keep in mind when applying:

• Common Application: Brown University accepts applications through the Common App. You will need to create an account, add Brown University to your list of colleges, and complete the required sections, including personal information, Brown-specific questions, and school forms.
• Essays: Brown requires three supplemental essays of no more than 250 words each. These essays are an opportunity to showcase your intellectual interests, personal growth, and how you would contribute to the Brown community.
• Letters of Recommendation: Brown requires two instructor evaluations or letters of recommendation from teachers who have taught you major subjects. If you are applying for a STEM program or the PLME, at least one recommendation should come from a math or science teacher.
• Transcripts and Academic Records: Official transcripts, including senior year grades, midyear school reports, and AP or IB exam results (if required by your school), are required.
• Video Introduction: While not mandatory, Brown encourages applicants to submit a two-minute video introduction as an additional component of their application. This is a great way to showcase your personality and provide information beyond what is in your application.
• Application Fee: There is a $75 non-refundable application fee, although fee waivers are available.
• Deadlines: The early decision application deadline is November 1st, and the regular decision deadline is January 3rd.

Frequently asked questions