Guiding Principles for Awarding Financial Aid

Admission is need-blind for all applicants, including international students.

Need-blind admission means that applying for aid is not in any way a disadvantage in the admission process, ensuring equality of opportunity for low- and middle-income students.

Princeton financial aid is awarded solely based on need; there are no merit scholarships.

We consider an applicant's talents and achievements only in relation to admission. Academic and athletic merits are not considered when awarding aid.

Need is determined through a careful review of each family’s individual financial circumstances.

We consider income, assets, and undergraduate siblings enrolled in college.

Need is determined through a careful review of each family’s individual financial circumstances.

We consider income, assets, and undergraduate siblings enrolled in college.

The full need of every admitted student is met through grants.

The average grant awarded to students admitted to the Class of 2026 was $62,635.

Old Methodology

(Based on Class of 2026 data)

The average grant for families with income under 65k covers the full cost of tuition, room and board.

Average Family Contribution by Income

Income Range

Average Parent Contribution

Standard Student Contribution

Total Family Contribution
65,000-90,000 5,000 3,500 8,500
90,000–110,000 9,400 3,500 12,900
140,000–160,000 20,175 3,500 23,675
190,000–210,000 36,025 3,500 39,525
240,000–260,000 45,825 3,500 49,325
290,000–310,000 62,000 3,500 65,500

New Methodology

Most families with income under 100k will qualify for grant aid to cover full tuition, room, board, books and personal expenses.

Family Contribution by Income

Income

Total Family Contribution
75,000 0
100,000 0
150,000 12,500
200,000 25,000
250,000 37,500
300,000 50,000
Notes:
  • Chart contains information based on families with assets less than $150,000, residing in the United States with one child enrolled in college. 
  • Assets do not include retirement holdings or primary residence. Assets do include non-retirement investments, 529 plan college savings, student assets and investments, non-primary vacation housing and other homes. 
  • Information in chart is not a guarantee of aid eligibility.

Financially Possible

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Financially Possible

Fees & Payment Options Apply for Financial Aid

Our no-loan policy ensures that need is met through grants rather than loans.

Estimate Your Financial Aid

Financial Aid Dates and Deadlines

Nov. 9

Princeton's financial aid application for single-choice early action (restrictive) application is due Nov. 9.

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Feb. 1

Princeton's financial aid application for regular decision is due Feb. 1.

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March 9

Princeton's financial aid application for the transfer program is due March 1.

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Apply for Financial Aid