Brown essay prompts
2026-27verified Brown University admissions
Open Curriculum / Academic Interests
Brown's Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might pursue them at Brown.
250 words max · Required
Growing Up / Community
Students entering Brown often find that making their home on College Hill naturally invites reflection on where they came from. Share how an aspect of your growing up has inspired or challenged you, and what unique contributions this might allow you to make to the Brown community.
250 words max · Required
Joy
Brown students care deeply about their work and the world around them. Students find contentment, satisfaction, and meaning in daily interactions and major discoveries. Whether big or small, mundane or spectacular, tell us about something that brings you joy.
250 words max · Required
About the application
Applies via the Common App.
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Common questions
- What are the Brown essay prompts for 2026-27?
- Brown lists Open Curriculum / Academic Interests (1 prompt); Growing Up / Community (1 prompt); Joy (1 prompt) for 2026-27.
- How many essays does Brown require?
- Brown requires 3 essays based on the published group instructions for 2026-27. The page lists 3 required and 0 optional prompts.
- What are the word limits for the Brown supplemental essays?
- The published word and character limits are 250 words max.