Dartmouth College

Intellectual Curiosity with Direction

Dartmouth looks for students who pursue ideas with intention. Strong applicants demonstrate curiosity that goes beyond grades—through independent projects, research, leadership, or sustained academic interests. What matters is not just curiosity, but a sense of purpose behind what you choose to explore.

Thriving in a Close-Knit Community

Because of its small size, Dartmouth places high value on community fit. Admissions officers seek students who engage authentically with peers and professors, contribute to discussions, and value collaboration. Applicants who show warmth, openness, and a willingness to participate fully in campus life tend to stand out.

Comfort with Exploration and Flexibility

Dartmouth attracts students who are adaptable and adventurous. The D-Plan rewards those who take initiative in shaping their education, while the college’s strong outdoor culture appeals to students who enjoy exploration beyond the classroom. A genuine appreciation for this flexibility is an important signal of fit.

Dartmouth’s admitted students typically earn GPAs in the 3.9–4.0 range and take the most rigorous courses available to them.

Unlike many peer institutions, Dartmouth requires standardized testing. SAT or ACT scores are required and are superscored, meaning Dartmouth considers your highest section scores across multiple test dates. There is no preference between the SAT and ACT.

For international applicants, Dartmouth allows multiple pathways to meet the testing requirement, including AP exams, IB Diploma scores, A-levels, or equivalent national examinations.

Applications are submitted through the Common Application and include:

Optional components include an alumni interview (if available in your area) and arts or athletics supplements for students with exceptional talent.

Early Decision: November 1

Regular Decision: January 1

Dartmouth places significant emphasis on recommendation letters that bring applicants to life. The strongest letters go beyond academic performance and reveal how you think, interact, and contribute to a learning community.

Admissions officers value letters that:

Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak with depth and specificity. Personal insight matters far more than prestige.

Dartmouth values depth, contribution, and initiative over résumé-building. Competitive applicants often show sustained involvement in a few meaningful activities rather than scattered participation.

Whether through research, service, leadership, athletics, creative pursuits, or outdoor initiatives, your activities should reflect commitment, growth, and collaboration. Dartmouth is particularly drawn to students who build communities, take responsibility, and engage others meaningfully.

Dartmouth Supplemental Essays

Dartmouth’s writing supplement is designed to assess fit, reflection, and authenticity.

Applicants complete:

Strong essays are specific, personal, and clearly connected to Dartmouth’s academic structure and community ethos.

Build Strong Relationships with Teachers

Because Dartmouth relies heavily on recommendations, choose teachers who can speak to both your academic growth and personal character. Asking early allows for thoughtful, detailed letters.

Lean Into Your Authentic Strengths

Dartmouth’s holistic review means no single factor defines your application. If one area is weaker, use essays and activities to clearly showcase where you shine.

Demonstrate Genuine Fit

Research Dartmouth deeply—its D-Plan, undergraduate research culture, outdoor traditions, and community values. Specificity in your essays signals real interest and alignment.

Dartmouth is best suited for students who value close relationships, academic rigor, and personal engagement. Its small size fosters strong bonds between students and faculty, while the D-Plan enables flexibility rarely found at Ivy League schools.

Students who thrive at Dartmouth tend to enjoy discussion-driven classes, interdisciplinary exploration, and a strong sense of community, along with an appreciation for the outdoors and campus traditions.

If you are looking for an Ivy League education that combines intellectual intensity with a deeply connected undergraduate experience, Dartmouth may be an exceptional fit for you.

University of Pennsylvania Admissions Guide