How Hard is it to Get Into Dartmouth?

Getting into Dartmouth College is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate typically hovering around 6-8%. As an Ivy League institution, Dartmouth looks for students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and authentic personal qualities that align with their community values.

A strong Dartmouth application starts with outstanding academic credentials. Most accepted students rank at the top of their class and maintain a weighted GPA above 4.0. They typically score in the 1500+ range on the SAT or 34+ on the ACT. However, Dartmouth takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they value much more than just numbers.

Dartmouth particularly values intellectual curiosity and a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom. They seek students who pursue their interests with depth and passion rather than those who simply collect surface-level achievements. The college's unique D-Plan, which includes year-round learning opportunities, attracts students who are adaptable and eager to explore different academic and personal experiences.

Your essays and recommendations should highlight your authentic voice and demonstrate how you'll contribute to Dartmouth's close-knit community. The college places significant emphasis on character traits like creativity, resilience, and collaborative spirit. They look for students who will actively participate in their residential community and bring diverse perspectives to campus discussions.

Leadership experiences and community involvement carry substantial weight in Dartmouth admissions. Whether through school clubs, sports, community service, or personal projects, showing initiative and making meaningful impacts in your areas of interest can strengthen your application. Dartmouth values students who not only excel individually but also lift up those around them.