Financial Planning

Dartmouth believes that the cost of a college education should not be a deterrent to prospective applicants. Financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and employment is available on the basis of need. Moreover, Dartmouth guarantees to meet 100% of each student's demonstrated need for each of his/her four years of undergraduate study.

Between 40 and 50 percent of each entering class receives aid from the College or other sources. Eligibility for aid is reviewed each year, and adjustments are made, as necessary, to assure that the aid package is commensurate with each family's financial need.

Whether or not your son or daughter is receiving financial aid, there are numerous payment plans and financing options which can spread the parents' share of the cost of education over time periods extending from four to ten years or more. These options fall into three categories.

1. Tuition prepayment allows families who are not receiving any college support to prepay two to four years of tuition at the rate in effect when the student enters. These families will be exempt from future tuition increases, although room, board and other expenses will be subject to increases.
2. The Dartmouth Monthly Payment Plan enables you to pay part or all of expenses in ten interest-free monthly installments.
3. Parent Loan Plans generally involve spreading the cost of education beyond the undergraduate career. In addition to the programs listed by the Financial Aid Office, many states and banks have similar programs.

Questions about financial aid should be directed to the Financial Aid Office.