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Princeton University

Princeton, New JerseyPrivate

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Princeton University’s 2024-25 Essay Prompts

Bachelor of Arts Short Response

Required
250 Words

As a research institution that also prides itself on its liberal arts curriculum, Princeton allows students to explore areas across the humanities and the arts, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. What academic areas most pique your curiosity, and how do the programs offered at Princeton suit your particular interests?

Bachelor of Science in Engineering Short Response

Required
250 Words

Please describe why you are interested in studying engineering at Princeton. Include any of your experiences in, or exposure to engineering, and how you think the programs offered at the University suit your particular interests.

Lived Experience Short Response

Required
500 Words

Princeton values community and encourages students, faculty, staff and leadership to engage in respectful conversations that can expand their perspectives and challenge their ideas and beliefs. As a prospective member of this community, reflect on how your lived experiences will impact the conversations you will have in the classroom, the dining hall or other campus spaces. What lessons have you learned in life thus far? What will your classmates learn from you? In short, how has your lived experience shaped you?

Civic Engagement Short Response

Required
250 Words

Princeton has a longstanding commitment to understanding our responsibility to society through service and civic engagement. How does your own story intersect with these ideals?

Graded Paper

Required
2 Pages

Princeton requires you to submit a graded written paper as part of your application. You may submit this material now or any time before the application deadline. If you choose not to upload the required paper at this time, you may mail, e-mail, or upload your paper through the applicant portal. Detailed instructions for our graded paper requirement can be found here.

Select-A-Prompt Short Response

Required
50 Words

Please respond to each question in 50 words or fewer. There are no right or wrong answers. Be yourself!


Option 1

What is a new skill you would like to learn in college?


Option 2

What brings you joy?


Option 3

What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment?

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