Brown University
The Vibe Check
Brown feels like an intellectual playground where intellectual freedom is the ultimate currency. The atmosphere is intensely collaborative but low-pressure, with students who are passionate about their unique, often interdisciplinary, pursuits. You get the sense that everyone is building their own curriculum and their own path, together.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Brown is renowned for its Open Curriculum, allowing students to craft their own course of study without distribution requirements. Teaching quality is exceptional, with a focus on close faculty mentorship and undergraduate research opportunities across top-ranked programs in the humanities, life sciences, and computing. The culture prioritizes intellectual curiosity over rote learning, fostering deep engagement in research and independent study.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Providence
Providence offers a vibrant, manageable city experience for students, with a rich arts scene, diverse restaurants, and historic charm. Students enjoy exploring the nearby Benefit Street, catching shows at local venues, and taking advantage of the city's waterfront parks and festivals. The city's compact size makes it easy to navigate and offers a genuine urban feel without the overwhelming scale of larger metropolises.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($93,487):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Brown's campus in Providence's College Hill neighborhood is considered very safe, with its own well-regarded Department of Public Safety. The surrounding city is generally safe for students, though, like any urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ The Open Curriculum offers unparalleled academic freedom and flexibility.
- ✓ Exceptional undergraduate research opportunities and faculty mentorship.
- ✓ A collaborative, low-competition student culture fosters intellectual curiosity.
- ✓ Strong alumni network and high post-graduation earnings.
Cons
- ✗ Extremely competitive admissions with a 5.23% acceptance rate.
- ✗ The high sticker price of tuition, though aid is generous.
- ✗ Providence is a smaller city, which may not appeal to those seeking a major metropolitan experience.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Brown is most famous for its Open Curriculum, a flexible academic structure without required core courses. It is also known for its strengths in the humanities, life sciences, and computer science, as well as its collaborative and intellectually curious student body.
Yes, Brown is extremely selective, with an acceptance rate of just 5.23%. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1546. Applicants need outstanding academic records, compelling essays, and a clear fit for Brown's unique academic culture.
Campus life is defined by intellectual curiosity and collaboration. Students enjoy a vibrant arts scene, over 300 student organizations, and a strong sense of community in a historic urban setting. The atmosphere is low-pressure, encouraging students to pursue diverse interests both inside and outside the classroom.
For many students, yes. While the sticker price is high, the average net price is significantly lower at $26,572. The 10-year median earnings of $93,487 and a 95.5% graduation rate indicate a strong return on investment, especially given the unique educational experience and powerful alumni network.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1764
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 8,026
- In-State Tuition $68,230
- Zip Code 02912
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price of over $68,000, the investment is significant, but the 10-year median earnings of $93,487 indicate a strong return. Brown's robust financial aid program, with an average net price of $26,572, makes it accessible for many families, particularly those receiving Pell Grants. The combination of a 95.5% graduation rate and high post-grad earnings suggests the degree holds substantial long-term value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.