Princeton essay prompts
2025-26verified Princeton University admissions
These are the most recent published prompts. Final 2026-27 supplements typically land by early August. These are the most recent prompts Kolly has verified for this school. Schools typically publish final 2026-27 supplements by early August; check the official source below before submitting.
Difficult Conversation
At Princeton, we value diverse perspectives and the ability to have respectful dialogue about difficult issues. Share a time when you had a conversation with a person or a group of people about a difficult topic.
250 words max · Required
Academic Interests (A.B. / Undecided)
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 · Required
Academic Interests (B.S.E.)
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 · Required
Community & Living Perspectives
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 settings at Princeton.
No limit listed · Required
Service
Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects (or will intersect) with these ideals.
250 words max · Required
Short Answer — New Skill
What is a new skill you would like to learn in college?
50 words max · Required
Short Answer — Song
What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment?
50 words max · Required
About the application
Applies via the Common App.
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Common questions
- What are the Princeton essay prompts for 2025-26?
- Princeton lists Difficult Conversation (1 prompt); Academic Interests (A.B. / Undecided) (1 prompt); Academic Interests (B.S.E.) (1 prompt); Community & Living Perspectives (1 prompt); Service (1 prompt); Short Answer — New Skill (1 prompt); Short Answer — Song (1 prompt) for 2025-26.
- How many essays does Princeton require?
- Princeton requires 7 essays based on the published group instructions for 2025-26. The page lists 7 required and 0 optional prompts.
- What are the word limits for the Princeton supplemental essays?
- The published word and character limits are 250 words max, 50 words max.