---
title: Brown University — PickACampus
description: Brown University in Providence, RI, features a 5% acceptance rate, a 96% graduation rate, and is ranked #13 overall on PickACampus.
url: https://pickacampus.com/college/9
last_updated: 2026-06-03
---

# Brown University

Brown University is a private research institution located in an urban setting in Providence, Rhode Island, with a total enrollment of 7,226 students. The university features a 6:1 student-faculty ratio and maintains a 96% graduation rate with a median starting salary for graduates of $79,131. Brown is ranked #13 overall on PickACampus and has an acceptance rate of 5% with an average SAT score of 1546.

## Overview
- Location: Providence, RI
- Type: Private
- Setting: urban
- Total enrollment: 7,226

## Admissions
- Acceptance rate: 5%
- Average SAT: 1,546
- Average ACT: 34
- Average GPA: 4.00

## Cost
- In-state tuition: $71,412
- Out-of-state tuition: $71,412
- Room and board: $17,444
- Average financial aid: $52,000
- Average student debt at graduation: $11,428

## Outcomes
- 6-year graduation rate: 96%
- 4-year graduation rate: 77%
- Freshman retention: 99%
- Employment rate: 91%
- Average starting salary: $79,131

## Academics
- Student-faculty ratio: 6:1
- Average class size: 15
- Classes under 20 students: 69%

## Notable
["Brown University has an open curriculum, allowing students to design their own course of study.","The university is home to the nation's oldest collegiate debating society, the Philo-Franklin Literary Society.","Brown's mascot is a bear named Bruno, and the school colors are brown, cardinal, and white."]

## Traditions
[{"name":"Van Wickle Gates","description":"Students only enter through the gates once as freshmen and exit once as seniors."},{"name":"Spring Weekend","description":"An annual music festival featuring popular artists for the student body."},{"name":"WaterFire Providence","description":"Students often attend this art installation of bonfires on the rivers downtown."}]

## Notable alumni
[{"name":"Emma Watson","description":"Actress known for her role as Hermione Granger in Harry Potter."},{"name":"John F. Kennedy Jr.","description":"Son of President John F. Kennedy, prominent lawyer and journalist."},{"name":"Ted Turner","description":"Media mogul, founder of CNN and Turner Broadcasting System."},{"name":"Janet Yellen","description":"Former Chair of the Federal Reserve, current Secretary of the Treasury."},{"name":"Shonda Rhimes","description":"Award-winning television producer and screenwriter."}]

## Common questions

Q: What is Brown University's acceptance rate?
A: Brown University's acceptance rate is 5%.

Q: How much does Brown University cost?
A: Tuition at Brown University is $71,412 per year, before room and board and fees.

Q: Where is Brown University located?
A: Brown University is located in Providence, RI.

Q: What SAT score do you need for Brown University?
A: The average SAT score at Brown University is 1,546.

Q: What is the graduation rate at Brown University?
A: Brown University has a 6-year graduation rate of 96%.

Compare Brown University with other schools free at https://pickacampus.com/college/9