An in-depth comparison of Princeton's Class of 2027 and Class of 2028, highlighting key changes in diversity, financial aid, and class size.
Princeton University's Class of 2028 introduces key changes compared to the previous year's Class of 2027, especially in areas like racial diversity and undergraduate expansion. This article delves into the primary differences between these two cohorts.
Class of 2027: 1,366 students
Class of 2028: 1,411 students
The Class of 2028 includes 1,411 first-time, first-year students, marking a slight increase from the 1,366 students in the Class of 2027. This increase is part of Princeton's multi-year expansion of its undergraduate student body.
The Class of 2028 also features 36 transfer students, the largest group since Princeton reinstated its transfer program in 2018.
Class of 2027: 17% | Class of 2028: 16.3%
The representation of first-generation college students saw a slight decline from 17% in 2027 to 16.3% in 2028.
Class of 2027: 66% qualify for financial aid; 22% eligible for Pell Grants
Class of 2028: 71.5% qualify for financial aid; 21.7% eligible for Pell Grants
One of the key differences is the increase in students receiving financial aid. In the Class of 2028, 71.5% qualify, up from 66% in the Class of 2027, reflecting Princeton's enhanced financial aid policies.
Both classes have similar middle 50% ranges:
These scores demonstrate Princeton's commitment to academic excellence and the competitive nature of its admissions process.
| Group | 2027 (%) | 2028 (%) |
|---|---|---|
| African American | 8.6 | 8.9 |
| Asian American | 23.7 | 23.8 |
| Hispanic or Latino | 9.9 | 9.0 |
| International Citizens | 12.3 | 12.0 |
| Multiracial (Two or More Races) | 7.0 | 7.2 |
| Native American | 0.1 | 0.1 |
| Pacific Islander | 0.1 | 0.0 |
| White | 38.3 | 31.3 |
| Unknown | — | 7.7 |
African American: Slightly increased from 8.6% to 8.9%.
Asian American: Remained fairly stable, slight increase from 23.7% to 23.8%.
Latino/Hispanic: Decreased from 9.9% to 9.0%.
Two or More Races: Small increase from 7.0% to 7.2%.
With 36 transfer students joining the Class of 2028, including 23 who served in the U.S. military, Princeton continues to broaden opportunities for non-traditional students. Many come from community colleges such as Mercer County Community College and Bronx Community College.
The Class of 2028 represents Princeton's evolving admissions strategy, balancing academic excellence with an ongoing commitment to diversity and accessibility. Princeton's holistic admissions process continues to be key in shaping the university's student body.