Founded in 1764, Brown University is one of the eight prestigious Ivy League universities in the United States. Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown is internationally recognised for its academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and distinctive Open Curriculum, which allows students to design a personalised academic experience without a traditional core curriculum. Brown is home to over 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students, including international students from more than 100 countries. The university is renowned for excellence in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Business, Economics, Biomedical Engineering, Public Health, International Relations, Mathematics, and Political Science. With a low student-to-faculty ratio and a collaborative learning environment, Brown consistently ranks among the world's leading universities. Whether you're planning to pursue a bachelor's degree, master's programme, or PhD, this guide provides an overview of Brown University admissions, available programmes, financial aid, admission requirements, and career opportunities for international students.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Providence, Rhode Island |
| Program Levels | UG · Master's · MBA · PhD |
Which Program Level Fits You?
Brown University offers undergraduate, graduate, professional, and research programmes across a broad range of disciplines.
| Program Level | Overview |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Undergraduate) | Undergraduate programmes in Computer Science, Engineering, Economics, Biology, Mathematics, Political Science, Psychology, Humanities, and Social Sciences. |
| Master's (Postgraduate Taught) | Advanced master's programmes in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Public Health, Biotechnology, and other specialised fields. |
| Professional Programmes | Graduate programmes in Medicine, Public Health, Engineering, and Professional Studies. |
| PhD (Research) | Research-intensive doctoral programmes supported by world-renowned faculty and cutting-edge research facilities. |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme and level of study. Applicants must meet programme-specific academic and English language requirements.
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Outstanding academic performance with programme-specific requirements |
| GPA | Highly competitive academic record |
| IELTS | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| TOEFL iBT | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| Duolingo English Test | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| Other Requirements | |
| Academic transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular achievements, and programme-specific documents |
Cost of Attendance
The Brown University tuition fees vary depending on the programme and level of study. Students should also budget for accommodation, meals, books, health insurance, transportation, and personal expenses while studying in Providence, Rhode Island. Brown follows a comprehensive cost-of-attendance model that includes tuition and living expenses, with financial aid available for eligible students based on demonstrated need.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Unlike many universities, Brown University does not offer merit-based scholarships. Instead, it provides need-based financial aid and is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, including eligible international students who apply for aid during the admissions process. Brown is also need-blind for first-year international applicants. Financial support includes:
- Brown Need-Based Financial Aid
- International Student Financial Aid
- Brown Grants
- Federal and Institutional Grants
- Work-Study Opportunities
- External Scholarships
- Departmental and Graduate Fellowships
- Research Assistantships
- Teaching Assistantships
- Doctoral Fellowships
Graduate students may also receive full or partial funding through fellowships, assistantships, and research grants depending on their programme.
Campus Life & Student Experience
Brown University offers a collaborative and student-centred campus experience. Students benefit from:
- More than 500 student clubs and organisations
- The unique Open Curriculum
- Modern libraries and world-class research laboratories
- Career counselling and internship support
- Entrepreneurship and startup programmes
- Undergraduate research opportunities
- Global exchange and study abroad programmes
- A vibrant campus in historic Providence
Brown is widely recognised for fostering creativity, interdisciplinary learning, and close collaboration between students and faculty.
Research & Global Reputation
Brown University is internationally recognised for research excellence and academic innovation. Highlights include:
- Member of the prestigious Ivy League
- Ranked among the Top 100 universities globally in major international rankings
- Highly selective admissions, with an undergraduate acceptance rate of approximately 5.65% for the Class of 2029
- Strong research in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, Public Health, Data Science, Neuroscience, Economics, and Climate Science
- Home to internationally recognised research centres and institutes
- Strong partnerships with leading healthcare organisations, technology companies, and research institutions worldwide
- Outstanding graduate employability with alumni working at leading global organisations and startups
Visa & Post-Study Work
International students admitted to Brown University generally require an F-1 Student Visa to study in the United States. After graduation, eligible students may gain professional experience through Optional Practical Training. Graduates in eligible STEM programmes may also qualify for the STEM OPT Extension, allowing additional work experience in the U.S., subject to current U.S. immigration regulations.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | International students generally require an F-1 Student Visa to study in the United States. |
| Optional Practical Training (OPT) | Eligible graduates may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing their degree. STEM graduates may qualify for an extended OPT period, subject to current U.S. immigration regulations. |
How to Apply
Every study level follows a similar application process, although deadlines, admission criteria, and required documents vary depending on the programme.
- Undergraduate — choose your programme — Choose your preferred programme. Apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
- Undergraduate — submit documents — Submit academic transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and supporting documents. Meet English language and programme-specific requirements.
- Undergraduate — accept your offer — Receive and accept your admission decision.
- Postgraduate — apply online — Apply through the relevant Brown University graduate admissions portal. Upload academic transcripts and required documents.
- Postgraduate — meet requirements and accept — Meet programme-specific admission requirements. Receive your admission decision. Accept your offer and begin your U.S. student visa process.
- Begin your U.S. student visa process — After accepting your offer, begin your U.S. student visa process.
FAQs About Studying Here
Is Brown University good for international students?
Yes. Brown University is one of the world's leading Ivy League universities, offering outstanding academics, world-class research opportunities, generous need-based financial aid, and a diverse international community.
Does Brown University offer scholarships for international students?
Brown does not offer merit-based scholarships. Instead, it provides need-based financial aid and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for eligible admitted international students who apply for aid.
What English language tests does Brown University accept?
Brown accepts TOEFL iBT, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, and other approved English language proficiency tests, depending on the applicant's educational background.
How do I apply to Brown University?
Undergraduate applicants apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application, while postgraduate applicants apply through Brown University's graduate admissions portal.
Can international students work after graduating from Brown University?
Yes. Eligible graduates can apply for Optional Practical Training, and STEM graduates may qualify for the STEM OPT Extension, subject to U.S. immigration regulations.
Does Brown University provide career support?
Yes. Brown offers career counselling, internships, employer networking events, entrepreneurship support, research opportunities, alumni mentoring, and comprehensive career development services to help students achieve successful careers.
Get personalized study abroad advice
Chat with our AI advisor about this university guide — tailored to your profile.
Start conversation
