Princeton University

Princeton University Supplemental Essay Outlines

Here is our suggested essay outlines for every prompt.

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Essay outlines

Every Princeton prompt, outlined

Academic Interest (Select 1)

Liberal Arts / A.B. Degree

250 words

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?

Paragraph 1: The Intellectual Hook

  • Open with a specific, recent moment where your academic curiosity was triggered, such as a localized puzzle, unexpected observation, or independent exploration.
  • Best to include a clear, focused inquiry that connects to a specific discipline.
  • Avoid broad declarations of childhood passion, generic definitions of fields, or claiming a childhood toy permanently bonded you to your career.

Paragraph 2: Specific Classroom Fit

  • Identify specific, upper-level courses or concentrations within your major.
  • Connect your past academic trajectory to these selections using the balanced fit formula of institutional resource plus your past need equals future application.
  • Best to show how you will participate in discussion and challenge your own perspectives.
  • Avoid listing generic introductory courses or writing flattery about school rankings and prestige.

Paragraph 3: Research and Lab Fit

Paragraph 4: Collaborative Group Activities

Paragraph 5: Looking to the Future and Giving Back

Engineering / B.S.E. Degree

250 words

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.

Paragraph 1: The Engineering Spark and Origin Story

Paragraph 2: Classroom Fit and Specialized Classes

Paragraph 3: Practical Research and Applied Projects

Paragraph 4: Teamwork and Group Activities

Paragraph 5: Symmetrical Future Goals and Local Impact

Required Essays

Lived Experience

500 words

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?

Paragraph 1: The Sensory Scene and First Impression

Paragraph 2: Background and Household Context

Paragraph 3: The Turning Point and Confronting Conflict

Paragraph 4: The Deep Reflection and Lesson Learned

Paragraph 5: Dialogue in the Classroom Seminar

Paragraph 6: Interacting in Campus and Dining Spaces

Paragraph 7: What Your Classmates Will Gain

Paragraph 8: Looking to the Future with Community Warmth

Civic Engagement

250 words

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?

Paragraph 1: The Personal Hook and Community Background

Paragraph 2: The Specific Problem and Its Stakes

Paragraph 3: Teamwork and Cooperative Problem Solving

Paragraph 4: Concrete Results and Personal Growth

Paragraph 5: Symmetrical Fit with Campus Service Programs

Short Answers

New Skill

50 words

What is a new skill you would like to learn in college?

Paragraph 1: Learning a New Skill

Joy

50 words

What brings you joy?

Paragraph 1: Experiencing Daily Joy

Soundtrack

50 words

What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment?

Paragraph 1: Soundtrack of My Life