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Duke University
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Applying to Brown University

Thinking of applying to Brown University this year. What should I know about the application process and what can I do to make my application stand out? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!

11 months ago

Brown University is a prestigious institution that values a strong and well-rounded application. Here are some aspects of the application process you should be aware of, along with tips to help your application stand out:

1. The Common App: Brown accepts the Common Application, so you'll need to complete the standard application form and personal statement, as well as submit the required supplementary materials, such as your transcript, test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. You can read up on how to tackle the main Common App essay on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-common-application-essays/.

2. Essays: In addition to the Common App personal statement, Brown requires supplementary essays. Pay close attention to the prompts and showcase your passion, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to your field of interest. Make sure your essays are polished and well-written, as they are an essential component of your application. Brown's open curriculum encourages multidisciplinary exploration, so highlighting your diverse interests can be especially beneficial. If you want more detailed guidance on how to tackle Brown's school-specific supplemental essays, you should check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down each prompt in detail: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-brown-university-and-plme-essays.

3. Standardized tests: While Brown has been test-optional since the Covid-19 pandemic, they have recently announced they will be going back to requiring standardized tests for undergraduate admissions. You'll want to aim for an SAT score between 1510-1570, or an ACT score between 34-36, to be a competitive applicant.

4. Program-specific requirements: If you're applying to a specific program, like the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) or the Brown-RISD Dual Degree Program, be prepared to submit additional materials or essays tailored to the program's requirements.

5. Rigorous course load: Brown values academic excellence, so it's crucial to have a challenging courseload throughout high school. Take advanced courses (Honors, AP, IB, or dual enrollment) in the subjects you're most passionate about, and maintain high grades.

6. Extracurricular activities: Brown values students who have well-developed interests and have demonstrated their commitment to activities outside the classroom. Pursue a few activities in depth over time, ideally by taking on leadership roles or making significant achievements within them.

7. Letters of recommendation: Secure strong letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and personal qualities. These letters will provide valuable context on your strengths and achievements.

8. Diversify your application: Think about your academic, extracurricular, and personal achievements that can make you stand out among the pool of applicants. Brown looks for students who have the potential to contribute to the campus community, so showcase your unique experiences and perspectives in each component of your application.

In summary, to stand out in your application to Brown, show your intellectual curiosity, passion for learning, and commitment to your extracurricular activities. Craft engaging and well-written essays, and don't underestimate the importance of strong letters of recommendation. Finally, demonstrate your genuine alignment with Brown's values and how you plan to contribute to their community. Best of luck with your application!

11 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.