How to Transfer to Brown University
If you’re planning on applying, get ready to prepare an impressive application package that will stand out from other applicants. This guide will cover everything from past acceptance rates and GPAs to materials required and competitive SAT/ACT scores, so that transfer students like yourself have every chance for success in this competitive admission process.
Why Should I Transfer to Brown?
The main reason students choose to attend Brown is because of its open curriculum. Unlike most universities, it affords undergraduate students flexibility when choosing their course selection. Meaning students can pursue studies that interest them rather than having a set curriculum with pre-determined courses required for graduation. This open curriculum makes Brown stand out amongst other Ivy League universities. While this may be a prominent reason for “why” you would like to attend Brown, we recommend it not be the sole reason. When filling out the “Why Transfer” essay question in your application, find something explicitly tailored to your interests and time on campus. Finding something unique about Brown will show that you cared enough to research the schools, clubs, facilities, classes, teachers, etc.
Brown seeks students who will make an impact while on campus and post-graduation. They want to admit applicants with a deep commitment and understanding beyond academics. Applicants must be willing to participate actively on and off-campus, immersing themselves in opportunities such as forming charitable organizations or volunteering for causes they sincerely care about!
Another outstanding advantage of Brown University is its 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio. There are numerous benefits of being in smaller classes, such as an environment tailored for those seeking closer teacher interaction. Professors will be able to connect with you personally and provide specific feedback on your work. Additionally, you will have a greater chance of connecting with professors for research in your field of study as there won’t be competition from an overwhelming number of students. Moreover, peer-to-peer learning is featured heavily in these classes, encouraging open discussion and collaboration between classmates, fostering strong bonds, and creating close communities on campus.
As for its location, Brown University sits in the beautiful city of Providence, Rhode Island. Despite its small-town geography, it maintains a culture similar to that of more prominent cities. Various publications have ranked the city as one of the best United States cities, making it an excellent place for undergraduates to live.
Brown Transfer Requirements
- Common Application
- Browns Supplemental Essays (submitted through the Common Application)
- Official copy of your high school transcripts
- Official copy of your current college transcript
- Official copy of your previous college transcript (if any)
- College Report
- Two letters of recommendation from professors or (TAs) who have taught you at your current university
- Midterm report from your current university. This report lists all of your current courses and shows Brown your current standing grades. If you are not currently enrolled in college Brown will waive this report
- Brown has waived standardized test scores for those applying in the 2022-2023 transfer cycle. While not required, you can still submit scores if you wish to do so.
Avoid procrastinating on these requirements as it will only add to your stress, and it is unfair to those helping you with YOUR application. Professors will likely have dozens of recommendation letters to write on top of their class work and will not be happy if they aren’t given at least two-three weeks’ notice.
Additionally, it is common for mail to be delayed or get lost. Requesting documents from current and past schools should be the least stressful aspect of your application process. Don’t cause stress on yourself by not leaving enough time in case paperwork gets lost in transit and needs to be re-ordered again. By requesting all documents early, you can focus more time on your essays and extracurriculars.
Brown University Transfer GPA Requirements?
Brown requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 for transfer students. However, the average GPA of admitted transfer students in 2022 was 3.93, with 50% achieving an ACT composite score between 34-35 and SAT scores between 1510-1580. To be competitive with other applicants, we recommend your GPA be 3.8 or higher.
What is Brown University's Transfer Acceptance Rate?
For the 2021-2022 cycle, Brown received 2,828 transfer applications. Out of those, they admitted 149 applicants, and 102 enrolled. See the chart below detailing Browns transfer data for the past five years.
Date | Applicants Applied | Applicants Accepted | Percentage Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|
2022-2023 | 2,828 | 149 | 5.3% |
2021-2022 | 2,746 | 118 | 4.3% |
2020-2021 | 2,293 | 77 | 3.4% |
2019-2020 | 2,030 | 118 | 5.8% |
2018-2019 | 2,130 | 164 | 7.7% |
Can I Apply to Brown as an International Student?
International students looking to attend college in the United States are often faced with an even more rigorous application process. Not only is it a more confusing application, but it is even harder for international students to gain admission into Ivy League schools. While schools don’t cap the number of internationals accepted, we’ve only seen a few gain admission each transfer cycle.
Brown does accept international students. While the application process is the same for domestic students, there are a few more requirements international candidates must submit. Applicants must submit proof of English proficiency by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo. Check the Brown University website for more details regarding test scores.
It is also important to state that international students are not eligible for federal financial aid. However, they could apply for institutional aid which is awarded by Brown. Applications for financial aid will submit their documents through a separate application process. Check the universities website for more details.
How to Transfer to Brown from Community College
Brown accepts transfer applications from both traditional four-year applicants and community college undergrads. In order to be accepted into Brown from a community college, you must stand out as the crème de la crème among all other community college applicants. The best way to beat out the competition is to maintain an extremely high GPA, have knockout extracurriculars, and write an outstanding admission essay. The admissions essays are your time to fight for a seat, so be humble, original, and personable. Doing well on all these requirements collectively will set you apart from your competition and greatly impact your acceptance decision.
Is Brown University a Good Fit For Me?
Before you take the time to submit your Brown application, make sure you put in the time to research whether Brown is a good fit for you. Understanding the reasons why you want to transfer to Brown will help show the admissions officers why you should be accepted into their next cohort.
In summary, if you are interested in exploring multiple fields of interest or want to design your own course of study then Brown’s open curriculum could make the university a good fit for you. Additionally, Brown places a major emphasis on undergraduate research for those looking to generate new discoveries. It is also important to note that Brown has a diverse student body and a vibrant campus culture which brings an array of perspectives to campus life.
If you’re determined to attend Brown, transferring can be a really fantastic option. If you are looking for deeper one-on-one help with an advisor, feel free to reach out to us here at TransferGoat to see how we can help you stand out amongst your peers during the next transfer cycle.