Brown University, found in Providence, Rhode Island, is a selective Ivy League university renowned for its Open Curriculum that enables students to create their own course of study. Established in 1764, it offers excellence in arts, humanities, social sciences, life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering, as well as research and innovation. Although it is test-optional, reporting highest SAT scores can support an application. Brown considers candidates as a whole, factoring in SAT scores, GPA, and other variables to determine scholastic promise and suitability for fit within its intellectually diverse, inclusive community.

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Did You Know Facts About Brown University? 

🎓 Oldest Ivy in Rhode Island: Brown University, founded in 1764, is the seventh-oldest college in the U.S. and the first Ivy League school in Rhode Island.

📖 Open Curriculum Pioneer: Unlike most universities, Brown eliminated general education requirements in 1969, allowing students to shape their own academic journey.

🚀 Home to NASA Astronauts: Several Brown alumni have gone on to become NASA astronauts, contributing to space exploration.

🗿 The Van Wickle Gates Tradition: Students pass through these gates twice: once at Convocation (freshman year) and once at Commencement (graduation). Legend says walking through more than twice brings bad luck!

🎭 Hollywood Ties: Famous alumni include Emma Watson, John Krasinski, and Ted Turner, showcasing Brown’s influence in entertainment and media.

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Brown University Admissions Requirements

The application, made via the Common Application, must also have all other documentation required such as transcripts, students' Scholastic Aptitude Test standardized test scores if required. Those applying to Brown University will have to provide either the Common Application or Brown's application, accompanied by SAT or ACT scores in case they are sent. At least a 3.0 GPA is encouraged; however, highly competitive candidates tend to unveil more than this. In addition, two teacher or counselor letters of recommendation and a proven commitment to extracurricular activities that are representative of your interests and passions are needed.

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Brown University SAT Scores Requirements 

Brown University places importance on SAT scores as a critical admissions metric, although it has gone test-optional for some applicants. Those who do send scores should be competitive, generally in the higher percentiles. The university is cautious with Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math scores. Good SAT scores can strengthen an applicant's file and increase his or her prospects of admission.

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Brown University SAT Scores Distribution

Brown University considers SAT scores within the context of a holistic admissions process, using Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math scores. The 25th percentile is the lower end of what is accepted, whereas the 75th percentile is a higher, more competitive standard. Scoring above the 75th percentile makes an applicant more competitive, whereas scoring below the 25th percentile can be less competitive.

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Average SAT Scores for Accepted Students

The students who made it through the Brown University admissions scored between the SAT score range of 1520-1570. Understanding the average SAT scores of admitted students can provide valuable insights. The table below breaks down the average scores:

Schools that Accept SAT Scores

Brown University, as part of the Ivy League, is not alone in requiring SAT scores. Other institutions include:

• College of Arts and Sciences
• School of Engineering
• Brown School of Public Health
• Alpert Medical School
• Graduate School

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Brown University ACT Scores Requirements

Brown has no strict ACT exam cutoff, but competitive candidates usually score between 34 and 36. Brown supercores, so they look at your top section scores from multiple test dates and give you the best composite score possible.

While a 34 is low for accepted students, a 34-36 makes you an extremely competitive candidate. ACT scores are only one component of the puzzle, however—Brown considers your entire application, including coursework, extracurricular activities, and essays for Brown University admissions.

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Brown University ACT Scores Distribution

The breakdown of ACT scores among admitted students is as follows:

• 25th Percentile: 34 – A score in this range means you’ll need strong grades, essays, and extracurriculars to stand out.
• 50th Percentile (Median): 34-35 – This is where most admitted students fall, making it a solid target range.
• 75th Percentile: 36 – A perfect ACT score puts you in the most competitive group.

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Brown University GPA Requirements

Noting that GPA admission requirements vary from college to college, Brown University sets the admission requirement for competitive applicants at a 4.18 GPA. This will not only show good average academic performance but also the rigor of the courses, for instance, AP/IB classes for Brown University admissions. The admissions committee likes to see a strong academic foundation demonstrating the student is well prepared for the very challenging academic curriculum at Brown. 

Average GPA for Admitted Students

Brown University has an average GPA of about 4.18 and is fairly competitive. The profile, therefore, makes the GPA very essential in trying to show your academic capability. If your GPA falls below this range, it's important to focus on other aspects of your application to bolster your candidacy. Brown typically considers the middle 50% GPA range for admission:

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Brown University Superscoring Policy: SAT & ACT Example

Brown University superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates to create the best possible composite score.

Brown University SAT Superscoring Policy

Brown combines your highest Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math scores from different test dates for Brown University admissions.

Example of SAT Superscoring:

✅ Superscored SAT: 720 (EBRW) + 750 (Math) = 1470
Brown will use the best section scores from different dates to create the highest possible SAT total.

Brown University ACT Superscoring Policy

Brown averages your highest scores from each ACT section (English, Math, Reading, and Science) across multiple test attempts for Brown University admissions.

Example of ACT Superscoring:

Superscored ACT:

• English: 30
• Math: 32
• Reading: 32
• Science: 33

Superscored Composite ACT: (30 + 32 + 32 + 33) ÷ 4 = 32

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Brown University Acceptance Rate

Brown University is among the most competitive Ivy League institutions, boasting an acceptance rate of approximately 5.4% for its most recent classes. This is to say that from almost 48,904 applicants, merely a fraction get in. Only 2,638 were able to make it through the Brown University admissions process. Due to Brown's holistic admissions strategy, candidates require not only great academic qualifications but also engaging extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

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Brown University Scholarships

Brown is committed to making education accessible to students from all financial backgrounds. The university offers need-based financial aid rather than merit-based scholarships. Key financial aid initiatives include:

• The Brown Promise – Eliminates student loans from financial aid packages, replacing them with grants and scholarships.
• Need-Based Aid – Brown meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students.
• International Student Aid – Financial aid is available to international students on the same need-based policy as domestic students.
• QuestBridge Partnership – Offers full scholarships to high-achieving, low-income students through the QuestBridge National College Match.

Also, Get to Know What Colleges Take Superscore ACT?

Overall, entry to Brown University today calls for a multiple sided strategy in working out the landscape of admissions. Although SAT and GPA are integral components, it is indispensable to have a well-rounded application that helps reflect unique experiences and passions as well as contributions made in your community. Focus on every aspect of your application so that your chance increases at joining such a great institution.

Acceptance Rate of Top U.S. Universities

Colleges That Uses SAT Scores

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