Frequently Asked Questions

Preparing for College

• What courses should I take in high school?
• What is the minimum GPA and/or standardized test scores required for admission?
• How does Dartmouth regard home-schooled students?
• If a student takes the required tests more than once, which results does Dartmouth consider?
• What about AP or IB courses? Is course credit given on the basis of test scores?

International Specific

• Who is considered "international"?
• What type of application should I submit to Dartmouth?
• Must I submit any additional forms?
• Am I required to take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) if my first language is one other than English? Is there a cut-off score?
• As an international student, must I take the standardized testing required of U.S. applicants?
• If my verbal SAT Reasoning Test score is below Dartmouth's average, should I still apply?
• Does Dartmouth College offer financial aid for international students? If so, will I receive full financial aid to meet my full need if I am accepted to Dartmouth?
• Is Dartmouth need-blind in its admissions decisions for foreign nationals, or is financial need one of the factors that must be considered in the admissions review?
• Does the Admissions Office recognize that my country and/or school has a different grading system than U.S. grading systems?

Application Requirements

• May I submit supplementary recommendations
• Is an interview required?
• What is your policy on the submission of supplementary materials, and may I submit an artistic portfolio or a tape/CD of my musical performance?
• What about the peer recommendation? What is it?

Admissions Policies & Procedures

• I have been admitted to Dartmouth – can I defer enrollment for a year?
• How will I know my application is complete?
• Is there a waitlist?
• What admissions criteria does Dartmouth use and who reads applications?
• Does Dartmouth admit students to enter in the winter or spring terms? Can I apply for Spring term admission?
• Does Dartmouth show preference in the admissions process for students who have demonstrated interest by visiting, calling and emailing?
• Does Dartmouth prefer the online or paper application?
• I changed high schools; do I need to submit anything from my former school?
• Does Dartmouth really read the personal statements?
• Do students apply to specific academic departments or schools? Do I need to declare a major when I apply to Dartmouth?
• Does Dartmouth have quotas for a particular region or school?
• Does the Admissions Office consider academic performance through the senior year of high school? Does taking a lighter course load in the senior year affect chances for admission?