Which Colleges in New Hampshire Are the Most Competitive to Get Into?

Dartmouth College stands as New Hampshire's most competitive institution, with an acceptance rate typically hovering around 6-8%. As an Ivy League school, Dartmouth attracts top students globally, requiring exceptional academic credentials, including high standardized test scores and a challenging course load throughout high school.

Saint Anselm College follows as another selective institution in New Hampshire, accepting approximately 77% of applicants. While more accessible than Dartmouth, Saint Anselm maintains high academic standards and values well-rounded students who demonstrate strong leadership potential and community involvement.

The University of New Hampshire, the state's flagship public university, accepts about 85% of applicants, making it moderately selective. UNH looks for students with solid academic backgrounds and particularly values those who show interest in research opportunities and experiential learning.

To increase your chances of admission at these competitive New Hampshire schools, focus on maintaining a strong GPA while taking challenging courses. Dartmouth especially values intellectual curiosity and community impact, so develop your extracurricular activities with depth rather than breadth. Consider taking leadership roles in fewer activities instead of participating superficially in many.

Early decision or early action applications can potentially boost your admission chances, particularly at Dartmouth where demonstrated interest plays a role. Take time to craft essays that specifically connect your goals with each institution's unique offerings. For UNH and Saint Anselm, highlight your academic achievements while showcasing how you'll contribute to campus life through your unique experiences and perspectives.