Princeton University Essay Prompts 2026-27

For the 2026-27 cycle: 4 required essays, program supplements for 2 programs.

Princeton accepts the Common App, so the personal statement is also part of your application. It counts once across all your Common App schools.

Every applicant applies to one of 2 programs and answers the prompts for that program.

For every applicant

Choose 1 of 2

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?
500 words max
400 to 500 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?
250 words max

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?
250 words max

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.
250 words max

Checked against official sources. Last verified August 28, 2026.

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