Overview
Denison University is a selective private four-year institution in Granville, Ohio. The school accepts 22.0% of applicants and enrolls 2,398 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 22.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,365
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,270–1,460
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 31
- Total Enrollment
- 2,398
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
Denison's admissions office prioritizes genuine intellectual engagement over résumé padding. Your essays should reference specific professors' research, the January Term's immersive single-course structure, or how you'd contribute to their nationally recognized community service tradition called the Denison Community Association.
Unlike peer liberal arts colleges, Denison requires all applicants to interview, either on campus or with alumni. This conversation carries significant weight in decisions, so prepare to discuss specific academic interests and how they connect to Denison's interdisciplinary approach. The interview isn't just evaluative but also demonstrates your serious interest in attending.
Your application should address Denison's unique social actives. The campus sits on a hill above the village of Granville, creating an insular but tight-knit community where students form lasting relationships across social groups. Reference how you'd engage with both campus life and the historic village below, perhaps through the Denison Museum or local business partnerships.
Don't write generic essays about small class sizes or liberal arts education. Instead, mention Denison's Red Frame Lab for interdisciplinary collaboration, the Lugar Program for global studies, or how their open curriculum lets you design concentrations across departments. These specifics show you understand what makes Denison distinct from other selective liberal arts schools.
Many applicants assume Denison is a safety school because of its Ohio location, but the school competes directly with elite East Coast institutions for students. Your application should convey why you chose Denison over more "strong" options, not why it's your backup plan.
The school's Early Decision program offers a significant admissions advantage, but only apply ED if you're genuinely excited about Denison's particular culture. The admissions committee can spot applicants using ED strategically rather than authentically wanting to attend.
Consider highlighting connections to Denison's strong alumni network in economics, media, and government. The school's career services leverage these relationships effectively, but you need to show how you'd use these opportunities rather than just benefit from them.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $38,111/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $64,000
- Students Receiving Aid
- 13%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 80.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $67,753/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 88.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Denison University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Denison University is test-optional for most applicants. You can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of your application.
What is the early decision deadline for Denison University?
Denison offers Early Decision I with a November 15 deadline and Early Decision II with a January 15 deadline. Both are binding admission options.
Can you transfer to Denison University as a sophomore or junior?
Yes, Denison accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants need at least 12 college credit hours and should apply by March 15 for fall or November 15 for spring.
Does Denison University offer merit scholarships to incoming students?
Denison provides merit-based scholarships ranging from partial to full tuition. These scholarships are awarded automatically based on your application and do not require separate forms.