Sep 5, 2025
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Princeton has officially released their supplemental essay questions for the 2025–2026 admissions cycle (Class of 2030)
Question 1
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?
Word limit: 500 words
Question 2
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?
Word limit: 250 words
Short Answers
Answer all three of the following questions:
Graded Paper
Princeton requires you to submit a graded written paper as part of your application. Guidelines about how to submit a graded paper can be found on the Princeton Admissions Website.
If you’re applying to Princeton during the 2025–2026 admissions cycle, the supplemental essays will be a vital part of your application. These questions are your opportunity to show Princeton who you are, what you value, and how you think. They’re designed to reveal the experiences and perspectives that shape you—your values, character, and goals.
Build a cohesive story
A strong narrative turns your application from a list of accomplishments into a memorable story about what drives you. It helps admissions officers understand not just what you’ve done, but why it matters — and where it’s all heading. Not sure what a narrative looks like? Check out this blog post!
Be specific
Don’t just say you’re passionate or curious—show it. Use real examples and personal stories to make your responses vivid. Princeton wants to understand the person behind the achievements and accolades.
Make each answer distinct
Each prompt gives you the chance to share something new. Avoid repeating content from your Common App personal statement or across your Princeton responses.
Answer the question
It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to go off track. Make sure every part of your response directly addresses the question being asked.
Highlight positive qualities
You can write about challenges or mistakes, but always focus on growth, maturity, and character. Don’t leave readers questioning your values or judgment.
Proofread your work
Sloppy errors can hurt an otherwise strong essay. Read your drafts carefully—and have someone else review them for grammar or spelling errors.
Looking for additional guidance or application review support? Feel free to reach out. We’re here to support you through every step of the process!
Princeton has officially released their supplemental essay questions for the 2025–2026 admissions cycle (Class of 2030)
Question 1
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?
Word limit: 500 words
Question 2
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?
Word limit: 250 words
Short Answers
Answer all three of the following questions:
Graded Paper
Princeton requires you to submit a graded written paper as part of your application. Guidelines about how to submit a graded paper can be found on the Princeton Admissions Website.
If you’re applying to Princeton during the 2025–2026 admissions cycle, the supplemental essays will be a vital part of your application. These questions are your opportunity to show Princeton who you are, what you value, and how you think. They’re designed to reveal the experiences and perspectives that shape you—your values, character, and goals.
Build a cohesive story
A strong narrative turns your application from a list of accomplishments into a memorable story about what drives you. It helps admissions officers understand not just what you’ve done, but why it matters — and where it’s all heading. Not sure what a narrative looks like? Check out this blog post!
Be specific
Don’t just say you’re passionate or curious—show it. Use real examples and personal stories to make your responses vivid. Princeton wants to understand the person behind the achievements and accolades.
Make each answer distinct
Each prompt gives you the chance to share something new. Avoid repeating content from your Common App personal statement or across your Princeton responses.
Answer the question
It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to go off track. Make sure every part of your response directly addresses the question being asked.
Highlight positive qualities
You can write about challenges or mistakes, but always focus on growth, maturity, and character. Don’t leave readers questioning your values or judgment.
Proofread your work
Sloppy errors can hurt an otherwise strong essay. Read your drafts carefully—and have someone else review them for grammar or spelling errors.
Looking for additional guidance or application review support? Feel free to reach out. We’re here to support you through every step of the process!
Former Admissions Officer, Harvard University
Former Assistant Dean, Stanford University
As a College Counselor I help students navigate the college admissions process. My goal is to help students stand out and get accepted to their top-choice schools.
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