Brown University

Admission at Brown University

Brown University admits about 5% of applicants, which makes it most selective. Admission is holistic: four years of transcript and course rigor first, then essays and activities, then recommendations and test scores. At this admit rate a strong profile is a reach for everyone; the essays and the activities list are where the decision is made.

GCC applicants: international curricula (IB, American Diploma with APs, A-levels) are read in their own terms. English proficiency tests are usually waived for English-medium schools; check the university's waiver rule. Saudi students on a Ministry scholarship should confirm the programme is on the approved list before applying Early Decision.

Brown University supplemental essays, 2026-27

1. Open Curriculum essay150-250 words

   "There is something distinctive about Brown students. It is a blend of intellectual curiosity, creativity, and humility. A commitment to collaboration. An openness to new ideas and perspectives. A desire to make the world better. And it is resilience: the ability to recover and thrive after experiencing difficulties." From President Christina Paxson's 2025 Convocation Address. How will you use these characteristics or others to shape your approach to the Open Curriculum?

2. Growing up essay150-250 words

   Students entering Brown often find that making their home on College Hill naturally invites reflection on where they came from. Share how an aspect of your growing up has inspired or challenged you, and what unique contributions this might allow you to make to the Brown community.

3. Joy short answer100-150 words

   Brown students care deeply about their work and the world around them. Students find contentment, satisfaction, and meaning in daily interactions and major discoveries. Whether big or small, mundane or spectacular, tell us about something that brings you joy.

4. Teach a class short answer100-150 words

   If you could teach a class on any one thing, whether academic or otherwise, what would it be?

Every US applicant also writes the Common App personal statement: 650 words, seven prompts. Admitify's coach reads drafts line by line and never writes for the student.

Strong for

Liberal Arts · Computer Science · Biology / Pre-med