Overview
Dartmouth College is a extremely selective private four-year institution in Hanover, New Hampshire. The school accepts 6.4% of applicants and enrolls 4,367 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 6.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,540
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,500–1,580
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 34
- Total Enrollment
- 4,367
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Dartmouth admissions officers care deeply about your ability to contribute to the tight-knit community that defines campus life. Your application needs to show how you build relationships and bring people together, not just how you excel individually. The college operates on a quarter system that encourages students to take risks with their coursework and pursue internships during unique timing, so admissions wants to see intellectual adventurousness and flexibility in your academic choices.
The D-Plan quarter system and study abroad culture make Dartmouth different from peer Ivies. You should write about how you would use the flexibility to pursue unconventional academic paths or gap terms. Reference specific study abroad programs like the London School of Economics term or the sustainability program in New Zealand. The admissions office wants to see that you understand how the D-Plan would shape your college experience differently than a traditional semester system would.
Write about Dartmouth traditions like the Dartmouth Outing Club, Greek life's central role in social life, or First-Year Trips in your supplements. These aren't just activities but defining elements of campus culture. Your essays should show you researched how these traditions would fit your personality and goals. Don't write generically about wanting to join clubs - explain specifically why you want to lead a First-Year Trip or how the DOC's outdoor focus connects to your interests.
Don't assume Dartmouth is just a rural Ivy with good outdoors programs. The college has strong alumni networks in finance and consulting, strong research opportunities despite its undergraduate focus, and a surprisingly entrepreneurial culture. Your application should acknowledge both the outdoor recreation opportunities and the academic and professional ambitions the college supports.
Apply Early Decision if Dartmouth is your clear first choice. The school fills a large portion of its class early and your demonstrated interest matters significantly. Your supplemental essays should be specific to Dartmouth's culture and programs rather than generic responses about academic excellence that could apply to any competitive school.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $28,619/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $65,739
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 96.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $97,434/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 97.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dartmouth College require standardized test scores for admission?
Dartmouth requires either SAT or ACT scores for all applicants. The college does not have a test-optional policy.
What are the Early Decision deadlines for Dartmouth College?
Dartmouth offers Early Decision with a November 1 application deadline. Early Decision is binding, meaning admitted students must enroll.
Can you transfer to Dartmouth College as a sophomore?
Dartmouth accepts transfer students for fall term entry only. Transfer applicants must have completed at least one year of college coursework before enrolling.
What is unique about Dartmouth College's academic calendar?
Dartmouth operates on a quarter system with four 10-week terms per year. Students typically take three courses per term and have flexibility in scheduling their academic year.