Dartmouth College GPA Requirements 2025: Admission Analysis & The D-Plan
Dartmouth College, a member of the Ivy League, offers a unique blend of a research university's resources and a liberal arts college's focus on undergraduate education. Its admissions process is highly selective, making it essential to understand its GPA expectations.
🎯 Quick Facts: Dartmouth College GPA Requirements 2025
- Average GPA: 4.11 (unweighted)
- Acceptance Rate: 6.2% (Fall 2024)
- Middle 50% GPA Range: 3.9 - 4.0+
- Students in Top 10% of Class: 97%
- Key Factor: Demonstrating intellectual curiosity and community fit
Dartmouth's GPA Requirements in Detail
Dartmouth does not have a minimum GPA requirement, but the academic profile of admitted students is exceptionally high.
| GPA Type | Competitive Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unweighted GPA | 3.9+ | The most critical measure of academic performance. |
| Weighted GPA | 4.0+ | Indicates rigor of coursework (AP/IB). |
The Dartmouth Plan (D-Plan) and Its Impact
The D-Plan is a flexible academic calendar that allows students to choose when they take their terms on and off campus. This flexibility is a key part of the Dartmouth experience.
How the D-Plan Affects Admissions:
- Admissions looks for maturity, independence, and a proactive approach to learning.
- Your application should show you can thrive in a flexible, self-directed environment.
- Essays are an opportunity to explain how you might use the D-Plan for internships, research, or travel.
Strategies for a Strong Dartmouth Application
Academic Profile
- • Take a challenging and balanced course load.
- • Excel in your areas of academic interest.
- • Show a love of learning for its own sake.
Personal Qualities
- • Demonstrate leadership and collaboration.
- • Highlight your engagement with your community.
- • Show kindness, curiosity, and a sense of adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dartmouth have a preference for the SAT or ACT?
Dartmouth has reinstated its standardized testing requirement for the Class of 2029 and beyond. They have no preference for the SAT or ACT. The middle 50% SAT score for the Class of 2027 was 1500-1580, and the ACT was 34-35.
What is Dartmouth looking for besides grades and test scores?
Dartmouth seeks students who are not only academically gifted but also kind, collaborative, and engaged community members. They value students who will contribute to the campus community and make a positive impact on the world.
How important is the peer recommendation?
Dartmouth is unique in encouraging a peer recommendation. This letter can provide valuable insights into your character, personality, and how you interact with your peers. Choose a friend, teammate, or colleague who knows you well.
💡 Key Takeaways for Dartmouth Applicants
- • A GPA of 3.9 or higher is crucial for a competitive application.
- • Showcase your intellectual curiosity and love of learning.
- • Emphasize your personal qualities and community involvement.
- • Prepare for the standardized testing requirement.
- • Use our High School GPA Calculator to assess your standing.
Related Ivy League Guides
Academic Success Tips
- •Create a consistent study schedule with dedicated time blocks
- •Take regular breaks using the Pomodoro technique
- •Set specific, measurable academic goals for each semester
- •Regularly calculate your GPA to track your progress
- •Stay organized with a planner or digital calendar