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Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Dei Sub Numine Viget("Under God's Power She Flourishes" On seal: "Old Testament and New Testament")

Wikipedia
1746
Founded
Private research university
Type
5,579
Total Students
5,813
Undergrad
3,324
Graduate
$36.4B
Endowment
(2025)
$60K
Tuition (In-State)
$60K
Tuition (Out-State)
$11K
Avg Net Price
5%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Graduation Rate
6-year
97%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Princeton University

Princeton University: A historic Ivy League powerhouse driving innovation and leadership for over 275 years.

Step into the storied halls of Princeton University, a venerable Ivy League institution renowned for its academic rigor, groundbreaking research, and profound historical impact. Founded in 1746 as the College of New Jersey, it stands as the fourth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, shaped by the ideals of the Great Awakening and a commitment to broad, non-sectarian education. With its motto, "Dei Sub Numine Viget" ("Under God's Power She Flourishes"), Princeton has consistently nurtured minds that go on to shape the world.

Princeton offers an unparalleled academic journey, providing undergraduate and graduate instruction across the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. The university is celebrated for its unique preceptorial system, which fosters intimate interaction between small groups of students and instructors, and its emphasis on independent work, including the senior thesis. Beyond the classroom, Princeton cultivates a vibrant student experience through its residential college system, diverse eating clubs, and over 500 student organizations. As an NCAA Division I school, the Princeton Tigers dominate the Ivy League in athletic titles, embodying a spirit of excellence both on and off the field.

Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," Princeton is a beacon of discovery, managing facilities like the Department of Energy's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Its legacy of influence is staggering, boasting 81 Nobel laureates, 16 Fields Medalists, and 17 Turing Award laureates among its alumni and faculty. Graduates include U.S. presidents, Supreme Court justices, and numerous leaders in industry and foreign affairs, solidifying Princeton's role in developing the next generation of global thought leaders and innovators for centuries to come.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1746, making it the fourth-oldest institution of higher education in the U.S.
  • Boasts a formidable $36.4 billion endowment, one of the largest per student in the nation.
  • Classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," contributing significantly to scientific advancement.
  • Affiliated with 81 Nobel laureates, 16 Fields Medalists, and 17 Turing Award laureates.
  • Renowned for its unique preceptorial system, fostering close interaction between students and instructors.
  • Home to 9,137 students, fostering a close-knit yet globally connected academic community.
  • A proud NCAA Division I school, the Princeton Tigers lead the Ivy League in athletic titles.

Timeline

1746
Founded as the College of New Jersey, receiving its charter on October 22.
1747
Opened in Elizabeth, New Jersey, holding classes in President Jonathan Dickinson's parsonage.
1893
The honor system was established, allowing for unproctored exams.
1896
The college officially became Princeton University, reflecting its expanded scope.
1900
The Graduate School was formally established.
1905
President Woodrow Wilson introduced the preceptorial system to enhance teaching methods.
1919
The School of Architecture was created, expanding professional studies.
1921
The School of Engineering was established.
1923
The senior thesis was introduced as a cornerstone of the academic program.
1930
The School of Public and International Affairs was founded, addressing global challenges.
🏛️
280 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within Princeton University

🏛️

Princeton School of Public and International Affairs

Offers postgraduate degrees focused on public policy and international affairs, established in 1930.

⚙️

School of Engineering and Applied Science

Provides advanced instruction and research opportunities in various engineering disciplines, established in 1921.

🏫

School of Architecture

Established in 1919, offering specialized education in design and the built environment.

🏫

Bendheim Center for Finance

Focuses on interdisciplinary research and education in financial economics.

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