Brown University Complete Information
BROWN University
International Applicants
Brown University’s international applicants are academically talented, diverse, and globally experienced. Brown encourages applications from international students who will contribute to our vibrant community.
About International Applicants
Brown University is a highly selective university and has an acceptance rate of just 9%. Most applicants are from the United States, but Brown also has international students from over 100 countries.
About half of Brown’s undergraduate student body comprises international students who bring their perspectives and experiences to campus. The Office of International Students & Scholars at Brown works with these individuals throughout their time at the University, helping them adjust to life in America and providing support when they need it most–like when they’re homesick or struggling academically.
Admission Criteria
Brown University is a highly selective institution. Students who wish to be considered for admission must apply through the Common Application and submit their application by the deadline. Applicants must also complete their application by the deadline if they are applying for financial aid or have applied for Early Decision I (EDI) or Early Decision II (EDII).
Additional materials that may be required are:
National and international examinations (required of all applicants). These include AP, IB, A-levels and SAT subject tests; ACT with Writing; TOEFL iBT scores less than two years old (if English is not your first language); International Baccalaureate Diploma with 7/7 scores in Higher Level subjects; Italian Maturita' di Stato with score 25/30 or equivalent; French Baccalaureate Diploma with score 15/20 or equal; German Abitur Diploma with score 1a/1b or equivalent.
Advanced Standing
You may be eligible for advanced standing if you have completed a bachelor's degree at an institution outside the United States. To apply for advanced class, submit the following:
A statement explaining your reasons for using and how your previous education will benefit Brown University. Your report should include details about why you did not pursue an undergraduate degree in the United States (e.g., financial constraints).
Please note that if English were not your primary language in high school or college, we would require evidence of proficiency in English before granting any advanced placement based on prior academic work done outside of the United States;
Official transcripts from each institution attended;
English Proficiency
All applicants to Brown must demonstrate English proficiency. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are the two tests accepted by the University. Applicants who still need to complete one of these exams must take one at an approved testing centre before admission.
Application Process
The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. The only difference is that international applicants must submit an English proficiency test score, such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
If you are applying outside the United States and Canada, we recommend taking the TOEFL or IELTS exams before applying.
Financial Aid
Brown University is committed to meeting all admitted students’ fully demonstrated financial needs. Brown’s financial assistance program is based on a family’s ability to pay, not the applicant’s academic record or test scores. Students eligible for need-based aid will receive it through scholarships and grants that do not have to be repaid.
In addition to federal loans, which all students may apply for, Brown offers additional loan programs through its own student lending office (Brown Student Loan Corporation). These loans include:
- Federal Direct Stafford Loans – available only after exhausting all other sources of funding
- Federal Direct PLUS Loans – available if you qualify as an independent student with dependents
Brown University is a great choice for international students. Our admissions process is holistic, meaning that we consider all aspects of your application and academic history when deciding whether or not you’ll be accepted into the program.