Dartmouth Stuns With 1,702 Admitted Students Despite Record-Low Acceptance Rate
Despite a slight dip in applications, Dartmouth College has admitted 1,702 students to its Class of 2029, with an acceptance rate of 6% that marks a minor increase from last year's record low of 5.3%. This represents one of the most selective admission cycles in the institution's history, even as total applications fell to approximately 28,230—an 11% decrease from the previous year. You'll notice this still maintains Dartmouth's five-year streak of receiving over 28,000 undergraduate applications, reflecting sustained interest despite growing tuition costs.
The application trends reveal a complex picture of Dartmouth's admissions landscape. While this year saw fewer applicants, the overall application volume has expanded by an impressive 32% compared to five years ago.
This year's cycle was particularly notable as it marked the first since Dartmouth reinstated standardized testing requirements in February 2024. Students preparing for these competitive admissions should consider creating a detailed timeline to manage various application components effectively.
Despite this policy change, the financial aid picture remains robust, with 27% of admitted students qualifying for free tuition. Additionally, 310 students received offers for further financial support or scholarships, continuing the college's commitment to accessibility amid rising costs. Successful applicants often begin their college research early to build competitive profiles that showcase both academic excellence and meaningful extracurricular engagement.
You'll find the increasing tuition figures particularly striking. Dartmouth's extensive fee has risen to $91,935 for the upcoming academic year—a 4.75% increase that contributes to a nearly 20% surge since fall 2020. Nevertheless, the college continues to offset these costs through expanded financial aid programs, including support through the QuestBridge program for talented low-income applicants. The institution maintains a strong commitment to socioeconomic diversity with 50.8% of students receiving need-based scholarship aid.
Early Decision continues to play a significant role in shaping Dartmouth's incoming class, with approximately 49% of enrolled students committing through this binding application round. The college received 3,550 early decision applications, matching last year's record high despite the return of testing requirements. This strategic enrollment approach helps Dartmouth maintain a carefully balanced class composition while managing yield rates. Students with strong GPAs alongside demonstrated leadership in extracurricular activities typically stand out in this competitive process. Prospective students should also consider utilizing the PSAT opportunities for scholarship eligibility when preparing their applications.
The admitted class maintains Dartmouth's focus on diversity across multiple dimensions, with emphasis on varied intellectual and personal achievements. While the acceptance rate increased slightly to 6%, it remains among the most competitive in the college's history, reflecting Dartmouth's continued position as a highly selective institution.
For prospective applicants, these figures highlight both the challenges and opportunities of applying to Dartmouth. While competition remains fierce, the college's commitment to financial support creates pathways for qualified students across economic backgrounds, maintaining accessibility alongside academic excellence.