Princeton University

Overview:
Princeton simultaneously strives to be one of the leading research universities and the most outstanding undergraduate college in the world. As a research university, it seeks to achieve the highest levels of distinction in the discovery and transmission of knowledge and understanding, and in the education of graduate students. At the same time, Princeton is distinctive among research universities in its commitment to undergraduate teaching.

The University provides its students with academic, extracurricular and other resources—in a residential community committed to diversity in its student body, faculty and staff—that help them achieve at the highest scholarly levels and prepare them for positions of leadership and lives of service in many fields of human endeavor.

Through the scholarship and teaching of its faculty, and the many contributions to society of its alumni, Princeton seeks to fulfill its informal motto: “Princeton in the Nation’s Service and in the Service of All Nations."

Facts & Figures:
Princeton is the fourth-oldest college in the United States. The ambience of its earliest days is palpable in historic landmarks on campus, most notably Nassau Hall, which in 1783 was the temporary capitol of the United States.

From such a distinctive beginning grew something great—a community of learning that continues to evolve, providing abundant opportunities to talented students from around the world.

Today, more than 850 full-time faculty members, who are leaders in their respective disciplines, instruct Princeton's approximately 4,850 undergraduate students and 2,295 graduate students. Princeton also serves as a leader in ensuring admitted students can afford college; in 2001, it developed one of the strongest need-based financial aid programs in the country and was the first to eliminate loans from aid packages.

Princeton today:
Recognized globally for academic excellence, Princeton University today is a vibrant community of scholarship and learning. As President Shirley M. Tilghman noted in a recent Commencement address:

“The specific components of a Princeton education have evolved over time, but our central aim has remained the same: to instill in each graduate those qualities of mind and character necessary for good citizenship and wise leadership. They include a broad intellectual curiosity that embraces open-mindedness coupled with critical thinking; respect for our moral and cultural inheritance coupled with a capacity for innovation and change; an appreciation of the shared destiny and common humanity of all peoples; and core principles of responsibility, integrity and courage.”

There are many features that define a Princeton education, but what is most distinctive is the emphasis on providing students with ample opportunity to explore and then deepen their academic interests. It is not uncommon to hear students talk about "finding their passion" as a Princeton student—and this passion later informs choices about what to do after graduation.