Dartmouth College
Dartmouth College Visit
Date: August 19, 2025
Location: Hanover, MA
1. First Impressions & Vibe
As an Ivy League liberal arts college, Dartmouth is well resourced and aspires to train scholars to think critically.
The school feels adventurous, spirited, and outdoorsy. Hanover is small and charming, our information session leader said, “There’s one of everything you need but not more than one.”
The Dartmouth Green and surrounding architecture combine history with energy. With the Connecticut River nearby, the school’s organic farm just 15 minutes away, and a campus that embraces the outdoors for learning and leisure, the environment feels alive and community oriented.
2. Ask a Student (Real Talk)
Students describe strong relationships with professors, the guidance of academic deans, and the opportunities created by the flexible D-Plan schedule. Athletics and outdoor activities are central to the experience, with 80% of students participating at some level.
When asked why he chose Dartmouth, one student responded, “I was excited about the rigorous academics, small class sizes, supportive environment, and strong community.” He continued, “The community is the reason I continue to choose Dartmouth every day.”
3. Uniquely Cool or Quirky
Dartmouth traditions stand out with many taking place on The Green at the heart of campus: a massive (three-story tall) fall bonfire, Winter Carnival with a midnight snowball fight, and Green Key, a spring music festival with emerging artists.
The Outing Club, the oldest in the country, makes outdoor life accessible, from renting hiking gear to organizing a 50-mile Appalachian Trail trek. Another quirky gem is the Rauner Special Collections Library, where visitors can request to see something cool.
4. Spaces You’d Love
Baker Library is the academic heart with a Writing Center, Academic Skills Center and Wellness Center, with massage chairs. That library gets quieter with each floor, with project work occurring on the first floor and quiet spaces on the top floor.
The Arthur L. Irving Institute for Energy and Society shows Dartmouth’s investment in sustainability and research.
5. Who Might Thrive Here?
Dartmouth is a great fit for adventurous, outdoors-oriented students who want both flexibility while pursuing a depth and breadth of interests. The D-Plan quarter schedule appeals to students eager for internships, study abroad, or unique experiences. Students who are sporty, community-minded, and ready to embrace tradition might feel at home.
With small classes, a 7:1 student-faculty ratio, and housing communities that keep students connected for four years, Dartmouth fosters independence and belonging.
Other Dartmouth Notes
Academic Highlights
Quarter system with 10-week terms; 35 courses required to graduate.
Distribution requirements plus major courses allow for course flexibility.
Classes taught by professors who are both scholars and teachers.
Research & Global Learning
The D-Plan supports internships, research, and off-campus learning.
More than 50% of students study abroad at least once; 30% study abroad twice, and 10% three times.
Study Away Programs are Dartmouth-designed and led, ensuring integration into the curriculum.
Career & Graduate Information
Strong support for internships and paid undergraduate research.
Dartmouth’s flexibility allows students to pursue internships during off-quarters.
On-campus internships are also available.
The University has several graduate schools, including the Tuck School of Business, Thayer School of Engineering, Geisel School of Medicine, and Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies.
Financial Aid & Admissions
Admissions are holistic and individualized; interviews and arts supplements are optional.
Peer recommendations may come from friends, siblings, or mentors.
Standardized tests are required but considered as part of a larger picture.
Admissions are need-blind with no-loan financial aid.
Families earning under $125,000 could have a student attend at no cost.
Net Price Calculator and MyinTuition tool available for cost estimates.
Transfer admission is possible.
Campus Life & Community
95% of first-year students take part in pre-enrollment trips such as camping and hiking.
First-year housing communities last four years, fostering identity and connection.
90% of students live on campus all four years.
Affinity housing and Greek life are available for sophomores and beyond; freshmen cannot rush or enter Greek spaces.
Campus transportation includes the Dartmouth Coach and local bus services; first-years cannot have cars.
Dining includes an unlimited swipe plan for first years and varied food options across campus.
