UNITED STATES · PRINCETON
Princeton University
private · Founded 1746 · Languages: English
In short
Princeton University is a private Ivy League research institution in New Jersey, founded in 1746. It is highly ranked globally and known for its commitment to undergraduate teaching, world-class research, and robust financial aid for both undergraduates and PhD students.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1746
- Students
- 8,799
- International students
- 1,800
- Acceptance rate
- 4%
- Tuition (intl)
- €56–60k/yr
- Languages
- ENGLISH
- Location
- Princeton, United States
Princeton University is a private Ivy League research university located in Princeton, New Jersey, USA. Founded in 1746, it is the fourth-oldest university in the United States and consistently ranks among the top universities in the world. Princeton is distinguished by its deep commitment to undergraduate teaching alongside world-class research, maintaining exceptionally low student-to-faculty ratios. The university offers 37 undergraduate concentrations and more than 50 certificate programs, alongside a graduate school that guarantees full funding to every admitted PhD student. Faculties of Arts and Sciences, Engineering and Applied Science, Public and International Affairs (Woodrow Wilson School), and Architecture are among the most renowned in their fields. Princeton's alumni network includes 69 Nobel Prize winners, 15 Fields Medalists, 3 US presidents, and leaders in science, government, finance, and the arts. Its need-blind financial aid policy and no-loan undergraduate grant program make an elite education accessible regardless of family income.
Why study here
- Need-blind admissions and no-loan undergraduate financial aid — families earning under $100,000 typically pay nothing.
- Guaranteed full funding (tuition + stipend + health) for every admitted PhD student.
- Exceptionally low student-to-faculty ratio enabling genuine mentorship from Nobel laureates and leading researchers.
- Access to 37 concentrations, 50+ certificate programs, and interdisciplinary research spanning science, humanities, policy, and engineering.
- A global alumni network of Nobel laureates, heads of state, and industry leaders spanning every field.
Student life
Princeton's residential college system houses all first-year and sophomore students in one of six colleges, each with its own dining hall, common rooms, and events programming. Upperclassmen often join the famous eating clubs along Prospect Avenue. The campus hosts over 300 student organizations spanning athletics, arts, community service, entrepreneurship, and cultural clubs. Division I athletics, the McCarter Theatre, the Princeton University Art Museum, and Firestone Library (one of the largest university libraries in the world) enrich campus life. The Gordon-Michael Schumacher '92 center for Innovation supports student entrepreneurs, and the nearby D.C. and New York corridors provide internship and career opportunities.
Fees
InternationalFull financial support is guaranteed for all admitted Ph.D. students, including tuition, a competitive stipend, and health benefits.
HomeUndergraduate tuition for 2025-26 is approximately USD 62,400 per year. Princeton's financial aid program is need-based and meets 100% of demonstrated need with grants (no loans required). Families earning under USD 100,000 typically pay nothing.
LivingEstimated 10-month living expenses: Housing $14,200, Food $9,104, Personal Expenses $7,804, Books & Supplies $2,033 (Total: $33,141).
Princeton replaced all loans with grants in 2001. International undergraduates receive the same need-based aid as US citizens.
Admissions
Undergraduate Recommended CoursesFour years of English (with writing), four years of mathematics (including calculus for engineering), four years of one foreign language, at least two years of laboratory science, and at least two years of history or social studies.
Graduate Application MaterialsCompleted online application, transcripts from all colleges attended, three letters of recommendation, statement of academic purpose, personal statement, and resume/CV.
GREOptional for most programs; required for Chemistry; not accepted by Molecular Biology.
TOEFLScore report sent to institution code 2672
IELTSOfficial scores required
Duolingo English TestOfficial scores required
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 202521
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 20257
US News Best Global Universities 202413
US News Best National Universities 20251
University scholarships
University Fellowship (PhD)USD 52,680/year (tuition + stipend + health insurance)
Undergraduate Need-Based GrantAverage USD 60,000/year for families earning under $65,000
National Science Foundation FellowshipVaries — students encouraged to apply
Hertz Foundation FellowshipVaries — students encouraged to apply
Accreditation
Princeton University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Individual professional programs hold additional accreditations (e.g., ABET for engineering, NAAB for architecture).
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionPrinceton University · United States
Advanced Topics in Computer Science: Machine Learning for Structural Biology
This seminar course explores the cutting-edge intersection of machine learning and structural biology, focusing on recent advancements that have revolutionized the study of protein and biomolecule structures. You will delve into how ML algorithms are applied to critical tasks such as protein structure prediction, determination, and computational protein design. The course emphasizes a holistic understanding of research papers, considering their historical context, algorithmic contributions, and their potential to drive scientific and drug discovery. The program is offered in the Fall term only and encourages applications from diverse academic backgrounds.
Master's
Level
€47k
Tuition
4 mo
Duration
Princeton University · United States
Chemical and Biological Engineering
Princeton University's Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering offers graduate programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in research, academia, and industry. The department emphasizes a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics. Key strengths include a low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering close mentorship, a diverse student body, strong interdisciplinary collaborations, and proximity to a significant concentration of industrial research laboratories. The graduate programs are primarily focused on the Ph.D. degree, with master's programs available for practicing engineers seeking to enhance their knowledge.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
Princeton University · United States
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mathematics
The Mathematics Department at Princeton University offers a Ph.D. program designed for students passionate about advancing the field of mathematics. The program focuses on rigorous training and research, preparing graduates for academic and research careers. The curriculum is structured over approximately four years, with the possibility of a fifth year based on satisfactory progress and continued need for study. The department encourages applications from students with diverse academic backgrounds and has no rigid course prerequisites, offering a wide range of graduate-level courses to support varied academic directions. International students are encouraged to apply.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Princeton University · United States
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Molecular Biology
Princeton University's Department of Molecular Biology offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program for students seeking advanced study and research in the field. The program welcomes applications from individuals with diverse academic backgrounds. Admission is highly competitive, and successful candidates will be invited for an interview. The university does not offer a Master's degree in this discipline.
PhD
Level
Free
Tuition
—
Duration
Princeton University · United States
Doctoral Program in Architecture
The Princeton University School of Architecture offers a Doctoral (Ph.D.) program for students interested in advanced research in architectural studies. This program is structured around two main tracks: History and Theory, and Computation and Energy. It provides an interdisciplinary approach to the history, theory, and criticism of architecture, urbanism, landscape, and building technology. Students work closely with faculty members and other university departments to develop a personalized study plan. The program typically involves at least two years of coursework, followed by general examinations, and culminates in a dissertation based on original research.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Princeton University · United States
East Asian Studies
The East Asian Studies program at Princeton University offers an in-depth exploration of the rich cultures, histories, and languages of East Asia, with a focus on China, Japan, and Korea. This interdisciplinary program is designed for students seeking to develop a deep understanding of the region's past and present, covering a wide range of topics from ancient civilizations to contemporary society, art, literature, and media. Through rigorous academic study, you will gain critical perspectives on East Asian societies and their global connections. While the program page details undergraduate-level courses, the admission information provided is for a PhD program, specifically in Molecular Biology, but gives general application guidance for Princeton graduate admissions. Therefore, this overview assumes a strong academic foundation and a desire for advanced research in East Asian Studies, though the program's degree level is inferred to be PhD based on the application page. The curriculum is built around language acquisition and cultural studies, providing a comprehensive foundation in East Asian languages (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) and diverse disciplinary approaches including history, art, literature, and social sciences. Students are encouraged to develop a broad regional understanding while also specializing in particular areas of interest.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What is the approximate cost of undergraduate tuition at Princeton University?
+
Undergraduate tuition for the 2025-26 academic year is approximately USD 62,400. Princeton's financial aid program is need-based and meets 100% of demonstrated need with grants.
Does Princeton University offer financial support for international students?
+
Yes, Princeton guarantees full financial support for all admitted Ph.D. students, covering tuition, a stipend, and health benefits. International undergraduates receive the same need-based aid as US citizens.
How does Princeton University ensure accessibility to education?
+
Princeton has a need-blind admissions policy and a no-loan undergraduate grant program, meaning families earning under USD 100,000 typically pay nothing. All admitted PhD students receive full funding.
What are the estimated living expenses for students at Princeton?
+
Estimated 10-month living expenses include housing at $14,200, food at $9,104, personal expenses at $7,804, and books/supplies at $2,033, totaling approximately $33,141.
What academic programs are offered at Princeton?
+
Princeton offers 37 undergraduate concentrations and over 50 certificate programs. Graduate studies are available through faculties in Arts and Sciences, Engineering and Applied Science, Public and International Affairs, and Architecture.
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