Brown University Student Selection: Criteria And Considerations

Brown University is a highly selective institution, with an acceptance rate of just 5.2% for the class of 2028. The university's admissions process aims to identify students who will contribute to and benefit from its academic culture. While there is no strict GPA or class rank cutoff, Brown looks for students who have taken challenging courses and made the most of their academic opportunities. The university also considers extracurricular activities, seeking students who are passionate about learning and dedicated to positively impacting their communities. In addition to academic records, Brown requires recommendation letters and essays as part of the application process. With its prestigious Ivy League status, flexible Open Curriculum, dynamic campus life, and strong career prospects for graduates, Brown University offers a well-rounded and attractive package to prospective students.

Brown University's Ivy League status

Brown University is part of the Ivy League, a group of eight of the most respected universities in the U.S. It is one of the oldest in the league, founded in 1764, and is known for its academic rigor and rich history. The Ivy League label significantly boosts the value of a Brown degree in the eyes of employers and graduate schools around the world.

One of the perks of attending an Ivy League school is the access to a powerful alumni network. Brown graduates often hold influential positions across various fields and are known for helping each other out. This can give students a real advantage when it comes to internships or first jobs.

Ivy League graduates also tend to earn more in their early and mid-careers compared to those from other schools. The median early career pay for Ivy League graduates is around $87,000, which is 71% higher than the national average.

Brown University, in particular, is known for its Open Curriculum, which lets students break free from the usual core requirements and design their academic paths. The university is also known for its dynamic campus life and strong career prospects for graduates.

Student-centred learning

Brown University is a leading nonprofit research university that is distinct for its student-centred learning approach. The university's Open Curriculum is a flexible but rigorous approach to education that allows students to be creative thinkers, intellectual risk-takers, and entrepreneurial problem-solvers.

The Open Curriculum is built on three key principles: students take an active role in designing their education, focusing on both intellectual and personal growth, and being encouraged to explore interdisciplinary studies. With over 80 concentrations to choose from, students can mix and match fields to suit their interests and career goals. For example, a student could pair computer science with visual arts or combine theatre arts with psychology.

The curriculum also fosters a collaborative environment. Brown's unique grading system offers students the choice between traditional letter grades or a satisfactory/no credit option. This reduces pressure and allows students to explore new and challenging subjects without worrying about their GPA.

Brown's admission process aims 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 these might fit into the Brown community. The process is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of only 5.2% for the Class of 2028.

Overall, Brown's student-centred learning approach empowers students to take ownership of their education, explore their interests, and develop the skills and mindset needed to become innovative leaders.

The Open Curriculum

Brown University's Open Curriculum is a key part of its educational philosophy. It is one of the most distinctive features that sets it apart from other Ivy League schools. The Open Curriculum is built on three principles: students take an active role in designing their education, focusing on both intellectual and personal growth, and being encouraged to explore interdisciplinary studies.

Application requirements

Brown University is a highly selective institution, with an acceptance rate of only 5.2% for the Class of 2028. The university seeks well-rounded individuals who will contribute to and benefit from its lively academic culture. Here are the key application requirements for prospective students:

Academic Performance

While Brown doesn't have a strict GPA or class rank cutoff, they look for students who have taken challenging courses and made the most of their academic opportunities. The middle 50% of admitted students scored between 1510 and 1570 on the SAT or between 34 and 36 on the ACT.

Extracurricular Activities

Brown places significant weight on extracurricular activities. They seek students who are passionate about learning, curious, and dedicated to positively impacting their communities. Leadership roles and community service are highly valued.

Letters of Recommendation

As part of your application, you will need to provide two teacher recommendations and one counselor recommendation. These letters should highlight your academic abilities, personal qualities, and any unique contributions you could bring to the Brown community.

Essays

You will be required to submit the Common Application essay, along with three supplemental essays. These essays should explore your academic interests, community involvement, and perspectives on diversity. This is your opportunity to showcase your intellectual curiosity, achievements, and how you envision contributing to Brown's diverse and dynamic community.

Interviews

While not mandatory, Brown offers optional interviews for applicants. These interviews are typically conducted by alumni and provide an opportunity for the university to learn more about you and your interests. It is also a chance for you to ask questions and demonstrate your interest in the university.

Special Programs

Brown offers several special programs with specific application requirements:

• Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME): An eight-year continuum that combines undergraduate and medical school education at Brown.
• Brown | RISD Dual Degree Program: A five-year dual-degree program with the Rhode Island School of Design, allowing students to integrate studies in liberal arts and fine arts.
• QuestBridge: A program that connects underserved youth with leading institutions, including Brown.

In summary, Brown University seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and a commitment to making a positive impact. The application process is holistic, considering not just grades and test scores but also extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations. Remember to showcase your unique strengths and how you can contribute to the vibrant and diverse Brown community.

Extracurricular activities

Brown University is a prestigious Ivy League institution with a rigorous admissions process. The university seeks well-rounded students who are passionate about learning, curious, and dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities. While Brown doesn't have a strict GPA or class rank cutoff, they are interested in students who have taken challenging courses and made the most of their academic opportunities.

Brown's student community is diverse, with about 95% of students coming from out of state and over 14% being international. The university has over 500 student organizations that reflect this diversity of interests, including a cappella groups, ultimate frisbee, student government, and community service. Students who cannot find a club or group that aligns with their interests are free to start their own.

The Student Activities Office plays a crucial role in supporting student organizations. It advises student groups, manages Greek and Program houses, and runs leadership development programs. The office ensures that students can easily get involved in extracurricular activities and provides a vibrant and diverse community for students to engage in a wide range of interests.

When applying to Brown, students are required to submit recommendation letters and essays. One of the supplemental essay prompts asks applicants to describe their most meaningful extracurricular commitment and what they would like the admissions committee to know about it. This provides an opportunity for students to showcase their dedication, impact, and personal growth through their extracurricular activities.

In conclusion, extracurricular activities are an important aspect of the admissions process at Brown University. The university seeks students who are well-rounded, passionate, and engaged in their communities, and extracurriculars provide a way for admissions officers to evaluate these qualities. With a diverse range of student organizations and a supportive infrastructure, Brown ensures that students can pursue their interests and make a positive impact.

Frequently asked questions