Test-optional pause extended through the 2021-22 application cycle

We understand the many hurdles students, families, counselors and school administrators have had to overcome due to changes within school communities and the unprecedented challenges presented by COVID-19. With the disruption to coursework and the lack of access to the ACT and SAT, Princeton has made a few changes to the 2021-22 application cycle to ease the process of applying.

A Continued Pause on Standardized Testing

Princeton’s Office of Admission continues to monitor the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the college admission process during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly as it relates to the availability of standardized testing. When considered in context and in conjunction with other academic factors, testing such as the SAT or the ACT can be very helpful in assessing a student’s preparation for Princeton’s curriculum. However, in this moment of ongoing public health concerns and a lack of opportunities for applicants to take standardized tests during the pandemic, we must adjust our requirements in the best interest of our applicant pool.

Therefore, Princeton will once again pause its standardized testing requirement as part of its holistic review process for the 2021-22 application cycle (fall 2022 entry). Students who do not submit test scores will not be at a disadvantage during our application review process. Applications without test scores will be considered complete.

Please note: Princeton will continue to follow the guidance and policies of the Ivy League regarding testing requirements for applicants who expect to participate in the varsity athletic program.

We remain committed to our holistic review process and will evaluate applications with the other required components, including rigor of academic program, school performance, recommendation letters, and school and community involvement.

Students who do sit for a standardized test and wish to submit their score will still have the option to do so. As with previous years, the University does not require subject tests.

English Language Proficiency Exams

If English is not the primary language spoken in your home and you attend a school where English is not the language of instruction, you must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic) or the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic). More information >

Optional Alumni Interview

All interviews during the 2020-21 application cycle were virtual, via video chat or phone. These interviews must not be recorded in any way, either by the interviewer or the applicant. The format for alumni interviews for the 2021-22 application cycle has yet to be determined.

Transfer Admission

This standardized testing policy change for 2021-22 application cycles extends to transfer applicants. Transfer applicants will continue to have an application deadline of early March.

Financial Aid

Princeton provides financial aid in the form of grants, which do not have to be repaid. Our no-loans policy makes it possible for students to graduate with little to no debt. More than 80% of recent seniors have graduated debt free. This spring, the trustees of Princeton University reconfirmed the University’s commitment to ensuring that a Princeton education is affordable for every student even at this time of economic uncertainty.

Campus Visit

Please note: The Office of Admission will not be hosting on-campus tours and information sessions during the months of July and August. The Admission Information Center is closed until late August.  We encourage you to take advantage of our self-guided tour of campus via your smartphone (more details to come) or sign up for a virtual information session. On-campus tours will resume in early September.

Prospective students are welcome to visit campus and enjoy our outdoor facilities beginning Aug 1; however, per University policy, visitors will not have access to buildings on campus.

Updated Jul. 6, 2021; 5 p.m.