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Testing
Testing Requirements
All applicants must submit:
- SAT (with Writing) or ACT (with Writing): If you submit both, we will look at your highest equivalent score. For the SAT, we take the highest section scores from any of your test dates. For the ACT, we take your highest single composite score.
- 2 SAT Subject Tests scores from different subjects (formerly SAT II): If you submit more than 2 Subject Test scores, we will look at your two best scores. We encourage applicants to take the tests from the subjects they like the best or feel they will perform best in.
Test submission deadlines:
Applying Early Decision (application deadline: November 1st)
Applying Regular Decision (application deadline: January 1st)
International Students must submit either the TOEFL or IELTS scores, except if:
- English is their first language, or
- English is the primary language of instruction at the secondary school where they get their degree
How we Evaluate Testing
Our approach to using testing for our admissions decisions follows our approach to the other pieces of your application -
- We use testing to better understand your academic preparation.
- We look at your tests in the context of the all of the other pieces of your application and try to understand what role testing should play for you in your application.
- We understand that many factors can contribute to your standardized test results.
- We do not have a "minimum" score that an applicant must achieve in order to gain admission, nor is there a score above which admission is guaranteed.
Standardized testing results can help determine the outcome of your application, but they really are one of many factors considered as we make admissions decisions. When combined with information about your grades and comments from your teachers and your guidance counselor about how you best learn, test results can be very useful in predicting what kind of college student you may be.
It may be helpful for you to check out testing statistics from this year's entering class.
Questions & Answers
Is there minimum test score on the SAT or ACT required for admission to Dartmouth?
No. We review each application carefully, regardless of the standardized testing results. Testing is one of a number of factors we include in our review of an application.
What SAT Subject tests should I take? Does it matter?
Take the subjects you like the most. You'll probably do the best in these subjects and this can help us understand your academic strengths. Students interested in studying specific subject areas at Dartmouth do not need to take any specific subject tests. Some subject tests scores may help with placement at Dartmouth and give you a head start on your desired concentration, but you will also have the opportunity to take placement exams during orientation. Read more about how we use testing in our review of an application.
