How competitive is admission to Brown University?

I'm really interested in applying to Brown University and I'm wondering about their admission process. What are they looking for in applicants, and how can I increase my chances of getting admitted?

Brown University is an extremely selective institution, with an acceptance rate of around 6%. It's rated among the most competitive universities not just in the United States, but globally. Students admitted usually demonstrate exceptional academic excellence alongside a passionate commitment towards their interests and community.

In terms of academic competitiveness, students admitted to Brown often stand out academically in their high school class. Most have taken rigorous coursework, including Honors, AP or IB classes, to show their abilities to handle the academic rigor at Brown. Many also usually have high GPAs and their standardized test scores are typically in the top percentile ranges.

However, please keep in mind that many top colleges, including Brown, follow a holistic admissions process. This means they consider more than just your academic portfolio. Your extracurricular activities play a significant role too. Brown is interested in students who've shown leadership, commitment and genuine engagement in their activities. They value individuals who have made a significant impact in their community, school, or domain of interest.

Crafting an excellent personal essay can also enhance your chances. Brown values creative, insightful, and authentic narratives. Their supplemental essays are a great opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of Brown's open curriculum and how you plan to utilize its academic flexibility.

Recommendation letters also play an important role. Strong letters can give Brown a window into your behavior in a classroom setting and reinforce what you've already highlighted in your application.

Also, consider applying Early Decision if Brown is your top choice; it shows commitment to the school and can marginally boost your chances of admission.

Remember to shine a light on your personal strengths, passion, and what you can bring to the Brown's diverse community. Every part of your application is an opportunity to showcase these aspects. To increase your chances, ensure your application represents a holistic picture of who you are, not just in the academic context, but as an involved and committed individual.

On a side note, every applicant's profile is unique and what worked for one person may not necessarily work for everyone. Brown values uniqueness and diversity, so being true to yourself throughout the application process is really crucial.