Quick Stats: Dartmouth College | US News #12 | SAT 1500-1570 | ~6.0% acceptance | Required
SAT Requirements
Dartmouth College has reinstated its standardized testing requirement for undergraduate admissions, effective for applicants to the Class of 2029 (the 2025-2026 application cycle and beyond). This means you must submit either SAT or ACT scores to be considered for admission.
Dartmouth superscores both the SAT and the ACT. This is a significant advantage for applicants, as the admissions committee will consider your highest section scores across all the test dates you submit, combining them to create your highest possible composite score. You can choose which scores to send via Score Choice through the College Board, but it is generally recommended to submit all test dates that include a personal best in either the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing or Math sections.
SAT Score Breakdown
Admission to Dartmouth is highly competitive, and successful applicants typically present exceptional standardized test scores.
For recent incoming classes, the middle 50% SAT score range is approximately 1500-1570, with the average SAT score hovering around 1540.
While Dartmouth does not publish a strict minimum SAT score, scoring below a 1500 means you will likely need to compensate with extraordinary achievements in other areas of your application. To be highly competitive, aim for the upper end of the range (1550+). This requires near-perfect performance across both sections, so mastering advanced concepts, such as those found in our Advanced Math guide and Algebra guide, is crucial.
(Note: While the general middle 50% is 1500-1570, some historical data for the Class of 2025 showed a slightly wider range of 1440-1560. However, aiming for 1500+ remains the safest benchmark).
Admission Tips
- The Peer Recommendation: Dartmouth is unique in that it strongly encourages a peer recommendation. This should be written by a friend, sibling, or teammate—someone who can speak to your character, collaboration skills, and personality outside the classroom. Choose someone who knows the "real" you.
- Understand the D-Plan: Dartmouth operates on a unique quarter system known as the D-Plan, which allows students incredible flexibility in scheduling terms on and off campus. Demonstrating an understanding of how you would utilize the D-Plan for internships, research, or study abroad in your "Why Dartmouth" essay can set you apart.
- Holistic Review & Character: Beyond grades and scores, Dartmouth places a heavy emphasis on community involvement, leadership, and character. They are looking for students who will actively contribute to their tight-knit campus in Hanover, New Hampshire.
Application Deadlines
| Round | Deadline | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Early Decision | November 1 | Mid-December |
| Regular Decision | January 1 | Late March / Early April |
Dates are subject to change slightly year-to-year. Always verify with the official Dartmouth admissions website.
FAQ
What SAT score do I need for Dartmouth?
To be a competitive applicant, you should aim for a score within or above Dartmouth's middle 50% SAT range, which is roughly 1500-1570. An average admitted student scores around a 1540.
Is Dartmouth test-optional?
No. Dartmouth College has ended its temporary test-optional policy. Starting with the Class of 2029 (students applying in the 2025-2026 cycle), all applicants are required to submit SAT or ACT scores.
Does Dartmouth superscore the SAT?
Yes, Dartmouth superscores both the SAT and the ACT. They will take your highest Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score and your highest Math score from multiple test dates to form your highest possible composite score.
What is the acceptance rate at Dartmouth?
Dartmouth's acceptance rate is highly selective, hovering around 6.0%. For the Class of 2029, the overall acceptance rate was reported at 6.03%, while the Class of 2026 saw a 6.2% acceptance rate.