More students than ever applied to Dartmouth this year. The 12,615 applications for the class of 2009 exceeded the previous record high of 11,855 for the class of 2007. Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid Karl Furstenberg calls the increase a "watershed." Average SAT scores also rose, putting Dartmouth at the top of the list of selective institutions nationwide in terms of the talents and accomplishments of applicants. Other significant statistics from the applicant pool include an increase across the board in applications from students of color, an increase in applications from public high schools, and a record number of international applicants.
There will be approximately 1,070 members of the class of 2009, which will likely push Dartmouth's acceptance rate down to 15 percent, Furstenberg says. Fewer prospective students applied through early decision, and 400 have already been accepted. The acceptance rate for those applying through the regular admission process will be even lower-12 percent.
"We're delighted to see the increase across all sectors of our applicant pool," says Furstenberg. "We work hard to communicate Dartmouth's distinctive characteristics to prospective students and are pleased that Dartmouth is an appealing option for high-achieving applicants from across the country and around the world."
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