Brown University is one of those schools that’s always buzzing with excitement. Students are happy, engaged, and (let’s be honest) a little bit smug about being there—and with good reason. Not only do they get an education at one of the most prestigious schools in the country, but they also get to explore their creative sides in an environment that’s all about freedom, curiosity, and self-expression. Gone are the days of stressing over GPAs, required classes, or competing with your peers—at Brown, it’s all about pursuing your passions on your terms.
Founded in 1764 (as the College in the English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations), Brown was renamed in 1804 after a major benefactor, Nicholas Brown Jr. His family’s history is a bit controversial (his father had ties to the slave trade), but Brown has addressed this through a memorial to slaves and a Center for the Study of Slavery and Justice. The campus itself is a beautiful mix of old and new, perched on College Hill and offering killer views of Providence. It’s full of grassy lawns, historic buildings, and tree-lined streets, giving it a classic college vibe with an urban twist. And if you’re into cutting-edge research, check out the new Engineering Research Center, which houses multiple research labs and undergrad teaching labs.
Crafting Your Own Path: The Freedom of Brown’s Open Curriculum
Brown has the idea that not everyone needs to have the same body of knowledge, which is why they don’t have any university-wide core requirements—except one: the ability to write well. Every student has to work on their writing at least twice during their time there, whether it’s in a class or through their other coursework. As for grades, students can choose between traditional letter grades (A, B, C) or “Satisfactory/No Credit,” with the catch being that No Credit isn’t recorded, but a habit of NCs can get you in trouble.
Where Curiosity Meets Creativity!
Brown’s most popular concentrations (that’s what they call majors) include computer science, economics, English, and biology. But it’s also known for its strength in neuroscience, classics, environmental studies, and applied math. Students rave about the flexibility to design their own interdisciplinary concentrations too, covering everything from cognitive science to public policy. And if you’re into creative fields, Brown has a dual-degree program with the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), so you can combine your liberal arts education with a dose of art and design.
Brown’s commitment to undergraduate research is top-notch, with tons of opportunities through programs like UTRAs (Undergraduate Teaching and Research Awards). And if you’re in the mood to travel, there are study abroad programs in 75 countries—roughly 30% of undergrads take advantage of these opportunities. Brown is also one of the leading U.S. universities for producing Fulbright scholars.
Even though the workload can be demanding, most students report that it’s manageable because they’re only in classes they’re genuinely interested in. Professors at Brown are really accessible and passionate about teaching undergrads. In fact, faculty members are evaluated based on their teaching skills, not just their scholarly work. Freshmen get paired with both a professor and a peer advisor, which makes the transition to college life smoother. And if you’re looking for help with finding internships or jobs, Brown’s CareerLAB and BrownConnect are solid resources.
Freshmen get to dive right into Brown’s academic culture with one of nearly 90 special seminars, each capped at 20 students. These seminars are a great way to explore niche topics right away. But because Brown is so popular, some courses—especially in writing and studio art—can be tough to get into. Pro tip: show up on the first day and beg shamelessly!
Brown students are known for being independent, and that’s essential for navigating the school’s unique curriculum. With only about 6% of undergrads coming from Rhode Island and 11% from outside the U.S., Brown is incredibly diverse. It’s a place where all kinds of identities are celebrated, and activism is a huge part of the culture. The university was the first Ivy League school to admit students from all religious affiliations and is now a hotspot for political engagement and student activism. About 7% of students are African American, 11% are Hispanic, 17% are Asian American, and 6% are multiracial. Brown is also known for its strong LGBTQ+ community.
When it comes to admissions, Brown University is all about getting to know the real you! They take a holistic approach, which means they’re not just crunching numbers; they want to see the whole package. First off, they check out your high school record—how challenging were your classes? Your GPAand class rank matter too, but don’t sweat it if you’re not at the very top; they’re looking for growth and effort! Brown also wants to see your standardized test scores, as they’ve brought back testing requirements. Now, here’s where you can really shine: your application essays! This is your chance to show off your personality and share what makes you tick. Plus, strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well can give your application a nice boost. Ultimately, Brown is on the hunt for curious minds and passionate hearts—students who are ready to dive into their unique community and make a difference. So, if you’ve got a mix of smarts, creativity, and a zest for life, you’ll fit right in at Brown! 🌟📚
Financial aid at Brown is super generous—it’s need-blind for admissions, and they guarantee to meet 100% of your demonstrated financial need with a loan-free financial aid package. They even cover the cost of books for students on financial aid!
Freshman housing options include co-ed dorms in Keeney Quad, which are the raucous and lively home to about 40-60 students per unit. If you prefer something quieter, there are other dorms on Pembroke campus. For upperclassmen, the options include suites with kitchens, social dorms, and Greek housing (but honestly, Greek life doesn’t have much of a presence here). About 72% of students live on campus, and Brown guarantees housing all four years. Dining is pretty good, though large dining halls can sometimes serve bland food. Still, there’s a vegetarian-only dining hall, and plenty of students find their go-to spots on campus.
Beyond the Books: Exploring the Vibrant Life at Brown
The social scene at Brown is pretty vibrant, with more than a dozen a cappella groups, a bunch of student-run newspapers, and even a Scrabble club. The university throws lots of events, from parties to concerts to campus-wide dances. Greek life is very minimal—about 11% of men and 12% of women participate—but off-campus parties and events are a big part of the social scene. The biggest event of the year is Spring Weekend, with a big-name band and plenty of parties. Oh, and for something a little different, check out the midnight organ concerts held by a beloved professor on “the four scariest nights of the year”—the night before freshman classes start, Halloween, and the night before finals each semester.
Providence, the capital of Rhode Island, is a bit gritty but has undergone a renaissance in recent years. There are plenty of local internship opportunities, especially in state government, and tons of great bars, restaurants, and music venues. Brown is also big on community service, with the Swearer Center for Public Service helping students find volunteer opportunities. Plus, many students head to Boston or the beaches of Newport for a change of scenery.
Athletics aren’t the biggest deal at Brown, but the school does have 29 varsity teams, including women’s crew (which has won multiple Division I championships) and men’s soccer, lacrosse, and water polo. There are also 33 club sports and intramurals, including kickball, cornhole, and softball.
All in all, Brown is a place where students build themselves up by building up their peers. At Brown, everyone’s passion is celebrated, and students are encouraged to carve their own path. It’s a place for those who are self-motivated, independent, and ready to embrace a completely unique college experience.
Brown accepts the Common Application with a supplement for Early Decision and Regular Decision. Be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information on standardized test requirements!
Application Requirements
Brown accepts the Common Application with a supplement for Early Decision and Regular Decision. Be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information on standardized test requirements!
