Dartmouth College

Overview of Dartmouth College

FAQs about Dartmouth College Admission

• What makes Dartmouth College unique among top colleges?

  Dartmouth offers a distinctive liberal arts education with the flexibility of the D-Plan, extensive undergraduate research opportunities, and a strong community spirit. With a low student-to-faculty ratio and small class sizes, Dartmouth places a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, ensuring close interaction between students and professors.

• How competitive is admission to Dartmouth College?

  With an acceptance rate of 6.2%, admission to Dartmouth is highly competitive. Applicants typically have exceptional academic records, including high GPAs and standardized test scores, as well as strong extracurricular involvement and leadership experience. Dartmouth also places a significant emphasis on personal essays and recommendations, seeking students who will contribute to the college’s close-knit community and thrive in its rigorous academic environment.

• What opportunities does Dartmouth offer for research and practical learning?

  Dartmough ranks number one in the Icy league according to the Nature Innovation Index for the long-term real-world impact of their scholarly work. Darthmouth provides students with the guidance, tools, and funding to create breakthrough knowledge in fields ranging from anthropology to zoology and everything in between.

  • Undergraduate Advising & Research (UGAR): Students acquire first-hand experience in the academic field of research while developing skills such as critical thinking, information processing, and effective communication.
  • Undergraduate Research Grants: Provides funding of up to $4,800 for 10 weeks of full-time leave research under the guidance of a Dartmouth faculty mentor.
  • Women in Science Project (WISP): Offers first and second year female students the chance to engage in paid research internships with faculty members in the sciences, mathematics, and engineering.
  • Senior Fellowships: Opportunity to devote your entire senior year to a substantial independent project that pushes beyond the bounds of the existing Dartmouth curriculum. Sophomore and
  • Junior Research Scholarships: Spend one to two terms working as a part-time research assistant with a Dartmouth faculty mentor. Mellon May
  • Undergraduate Fellowships at Dartmouth: Supports sophomores and juniors from underrepresented minority groups and students who have demonstrated commitment to the objective of the Mellon Mays fellowships in their preparation for doctoral studies.
  • Honor Thesis Grants: Receive up to $2,500 toward the cost of your senior honors thesis research.
  • Mini-grants: Cover conference registration fees up to £300 for one student or up to $1,000 to cover the costs on an on-campus event or program by a student organization.

• What are the benefits of Dartmouth's rural location?

  The smaller population and fewer distractions encourage deeper connections and a more supportive environment. With fewer urban distractions, students often find it easier to concentrate on their studies and participate in extracurricular activities enhancing academic performance and personal development. The natural beauty and slower pace of life are conducive to reducing student stress and promoting a balanced lifestyle. Additionally, the natural surroundings allow for hands-on learning experiences in environmental science, biology, and geology. The rural setting typically offers a safer environment compared to urban areas, with lower crime rates and a more serene atmosphere. All of these benefits contribute to a distinctive college experience that emphasizes community, outdoor engagement, and academic focus, all within a serene and supportive environment.

• How does Dartmouth support students financially?

  Dartmouth’s financial aid program meets 100% of demonstrated need without loans, making it accessible for students from all financial backgrounds. The average Scholarship Award for the Class of 2026 was $67,127.

• What support is there for first year students?

  There is a First-Year Trips orientation program that introduces incoming students to Dartmouth and the surrounding wilderness, fostering camaraderie and easing the transition to college life. Additionally, the college offers Living Learning Communities where first-year students can live with peers who share similar interests, fostering a strong sense of community. Resources like the Academic Skills Center and Undergraduate Deans Office also provide personalized support to help students succeed academically and personally during their transition to college life.

• What does life look like after graduation?

  Life after graduating from Dartmouth College is marked by strong career prospects and a powerful alumni network. With a high graduation rate of around 95%, Dartmouth graduates are well-prepared for success, with about 94% of them employed or enrolled in further education within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for Dartmouth alumni is approximately $70,000, with many securing positions in prestigious fields like finance, consulting, technology, and healthcare. Dartmouth’s close-knit and engaged alumni network plays a significant role in supporting career advancement, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and lifelong connections. The college’s strong emphasis on a liberal arts education ensures that graduates are well-rounded and adaptable, making them highly sought after in various industries.