Overview: Dartmouth College
What makes Dartmouth different, in four points.
Founded in 1769 in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth is the smallest Ivy League institution, known above all for its focus on undergraduate teaching.
- Just over 4,400 undergraduates in small, seminar-style classes
- Close faculty mentorship
- D-Plan quarter system: shape your schedule around internships, research and off-campus programs
- Strong outdoor culture and a deeply connected campus
What Dartmouth College Looks For
Three qualities that decide fit more than any single number.
Curiosity with direction
- Independent projects or research
- Leadership or sustained academic interests
- A clear sense of purpose behind what you explore
A close-knit community
- Engage authentically with peers and professors
- Contribute to discussions and value collaboration
- Warmth, openness and full participation in campus life
Comfort with exploration
- Adaptable and adventurous
- Initiative in shaping your own education
- Enjoy exploring beyond the classroom
Academic Profile & Requirements
Testing is required, and international applicants have multiple pathways.
Academic Profile & Testing
- GPA typically 3.9–4.0 in the most rigorous courses available
- SAT or ACT required, with no preference between them
- Superscored: your highest section scores across test dates count
- International applicants can meet the requirement with AP, IB, A-levels or equivalent exams
Common Application includes
Optional: alumni interview (if available in your area), and arts or athletics supplements.
Important Deadlines for Dartmouth College
We plan backwards from these dates with every family.
Build Your Application
What your recommendations, activities and essays each need to show.
Recommendations
Choose recommenders who know you well. Insight matters more than prestige.
- Curiosity and engagement in discussion-based classes
- Initiative, leadership or moments of insight
- How you elevate group learning
Activities
Depth and initiative matter more than résumé-building.
- Sustained involvement in a few pursuits, not many
- Commitment, growth and collaboration
- Research, service, leadership, athletics, creative or outdoor work
Supplemental essays
Strong essays are specific, personal and tied to Dartmouth.
- “Why Dartmouth?”: programs, community, campus culture
- Personal reflection on background, identity or growth
- One deeper exploration, chosen from several prompts
Admissions Strategy & Tips
Three moves that matter most for Dartmouth.
Build strong relationships with teachers.Ask early so letters can be thoughtful and detailed.
Lean into your authentic strengths.If one area is weaker, let essays and activities show where you shine.
Demonstrate genuine fit.Be specific about the D-Plan, research culture and traditions.
Is Dartmouth College the Right Fit for You?
Best for students who value close relationships, rigor and personal engagement.
- You enjoy discussion-driven classes
- You like interdisciplinary exploration
- You want a strong sense of community
- You appreciate the outdoors and campus traditions
Frequently Asked Questions: Dartmouth College
Common queries from applicants and families about admissions.
Get Guidance for Dartmouth College
We'll match you with a mentor who knows Dartmouth College inside and out.