Deciding whether Dartmouth is the right school for you? As one of the eight Ivy League institutions, Dartmouth College consistently ranks among the top U.S. universities. For 2024, it was ranked #18 by the U.S. News & World Report among national universities. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1 and over 61% of classes having fewer than 20 students, Dartmouth promises a highly personalized academic experience.
But despite these impressive stats, is Dartmouth a good school for your needs? This blog will explore the Dartmouth pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right fit. Let’s explore the specifics to give you a clearer picture.
Dartmouth Pros
Dartmouth has a lot of advantages. From its renowned programs in economics, government, and engineering to its flexible D-Plan and strong research opportunities, Dartmouth has a lot to offer. Let’s break down some of the key reasons why students choose Dartmouth and how it stands out in providing both a strong academic foundation and a vibrant campus life.
Close-knit community
Dartmouth is the smallest Ivy League school, with over 4,400 undergraduates. This small size creates a tight-knit community where you’re more likely to know your professors and classmates by name. The 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio means you won’t get lost in the crowd, and professors actually get to know you, not just your grades.
Living on campus also helps build strong friendships. About 90% of first-year students live in dorms, and forming close bonds is common from the start. If you want a place where people really get to know each other, Dartmouth’s small, community-driven atmosphere is a major plus.
Strong academics
Is Dartmouth a good school for academics? Dartmouth consistently ranks among the top U.S. colleges for its academic offerings. In Forbes’ Top Colleges 2025, Dartmouth was ranked #16, while U.S. News & World Report ranked it #18 in National Universities. These rankings highlight Dartmouth’s strong academic reputation and ability to provide a well-rounded education, a key aspect when considering the Dartmouth pros and cons.
Dartmouth is particularly well-known for its economics, government, engineering, and computer science programs. Dartmouth’s economics faculty includes renowned economists like David Blanchflower, who has served as a member of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee. The government program is also highly regarded, with alumni like U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Timothy Geithner having studied there.
For those interested in STEM, the Thayer School of Engineering stands out. Thayer’s interdisciplinary approach combines engineering with liberal arts, giving students a well-rounded education. Dartmouth also supports hands-on learning through programs like the Dartmouth Formula Racing team, where students design, build, and compete with their own race cars.
Dartmouth’s computer science program has made a name for itself, especially with its specialized tracks in AI, cybersecurity, and data science. In recent years, the school has invested heavily in upgrading its tech infrastructure, including cutting-edge labs. One standout initiative is the Institute for Security, Technology, and Society, where students get hands-on experience with real-world projects in cybersecurity and privacy.
Dartmouth offers impressive research opportunities, with over $200 million annual funding. Numerous fellowships and grants are also available to support students in pursuing their own ideas. One standout program is the Junior Research Scholars, which provides both funding and mentorship to help students develop and carry out their own research projects.
Overall, Dartmouth’s strong academic programs make it a solid choice for students looking for a challenging and personalized educational experience. The school’s academic strengths are a major point in any evaluation of the Dartmouth pros and cons.
Flexible academic calendar (D-Plan)
Dartmouth’s “D-Plan” is one of the things that makes it stand out. Instead of following the typical semester schedule, Dartmouth uses a quarter system. This lets you mix and match your terms so you can take time to do internships, study abroad, or just work. The flexibility to plan your year around more than just classes is a big perk and one of the positive aspects when considering Dartmouth pros and cons.
This means you can build your own schedule to suit your goals, like taking off the summer to travel or interning at a company during the fall. The D-Plan is all about giving you control so you can maximize your college experience in a way that works best for you.
Access to research and internships
At Dartmouth, students don’t just hit the books. They get real-world experience, too. With over $200 million in annual research funding, undergrads have plenty of chances to dive into hands-on research. Dartmouth encourages undergrads to get involved early on, which is a big advantage if you want to build up your resume before graduation.
Internships are also a big deal here. Programs like the Dartmouth Center for Social Impact and the Rockefeller Center for Public Policy help connect students with internships and fellowships. This means you’ll have real experience by the time you graduate, which can give you a leg up in the job market. Many students weigh this aspect heavily when assessing the Dartmouth pros and cons.
Outdoor opportunities
If you love the outdoors, Dartmouth’s location is a dream. Hanover, New Hampshire, is close to the White Mountains and the Connecticut River, making it perfect for skiing, hiking, kayaking, and more. Dartmouth even has the oldest collegiate outdoor club in the U.S., the Dartmouth Outing Club, which organizes year-round trips for students at all skill levels.
Whether you’re into extreme sports or just looking for a casual hike, Dartmouth’s access to outdoor activities is hard to beat. The outdoor scene is also a great way to take a break from studying and clear your head, which can help you recharge during busy academic times. This feature frequently comes up in discussions of the Dartmouth pros and cons.
Strong alumni network
Dartmouth’s alumni network is well-known for being powerful and close-knit, much like the student community. Alumni stay engaged and often help fellow graduates secure jobs or internships. Dartmouth graduates hold leadership positions across various industries, including:
- Jeff Immelt. Former CEO of General Electric (GE), he led the company for over 16 years, guiding it through significant technological advancements and global expansions.
- Kirsten Gillibrand. A U.S. Senator from New York since 2009, she has been a leading voice in advocating for transparency in government, women’s rights, and military justice reform.
- Shonda Rhimes. A renowned television producer and writer, she is the creative force behind hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder. She’s widely credited with transforming modern TV storytelling.
- Timothy Geithner. Former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, Geithner played a key role in managing the U.S. financial system during the 2008 financial crisis and shaped economic recovery policies.
- Mindy Kaling. Actress, comedian, and writer best known for her work on The Office and The Mindy Project. She has become a prominent figure in Hollywood, recognized for her wit and creative versatility.
This means that even after you graduate, Dartmouth’s network can help you connect with professionals in your field, making it easier to find job opportunities. The strong alumni support is a big advantage, especially as you start your career.
Dartmouth Cons
Dartmouth has plenty of great things to offer, but it’s not without its downsides. While there are a lot of things that make Dartmouth an amazing place, there are also a few aspects that might not be for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at some of the potential drawbacks so you can weigh them against all the positives to see if Dartmouth is truly the right fit for you.
Limited diversity
One area where Dartmouth could do better is in its diversity. For the Class of 2025, about 34.58% of students identify as people of color. While this is a step in the right direction, it’s still lower than other Ivy League schools. For example, Harvard University has 51.48% students of color, and Yale University has 76%. If a diverse campus is important to you, Dartmouth’s lower percentage might be a drawback, which is often considered a negative in the Dartmouth pros and cons.
Additionally, Dartmouth has a reputation for having a higher percentage of students from wealthier backgrounds. A significant portion of the student body comes from families in the top 1% of income earners, which can make it harder for students from lower-income or middle-class families to feel fully integrated. This issue is frequently cited when discussing the Dartmouth pros and cons.
While the school offers financial aid, and over 50% of students receive some form of assistance, the wealth disparity can still affect social dynamics. This can be especially noticeable in social settings, where students from wealthier families might participate in events that require more disposable income.
Although Dartmouth makes strides toward creating a more inclusive environment, it’s something to consider if you’re looking for a school with a more balanced socioeconomic mix.
Rural location
Dartmouth’s rural location in Hanover, New Hampshire, is a double-edged sword. The town is small, with a population of about 11,000, and it offers a peaceful, picturesque environment perfect for outdoor lovers. Surrounded by the White Mountains and the Connecticut River, Dartmouth students have easy access to hiking, skiing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. If you thrive in nature and enjoy outdoor adventures, this setting can be a huge pro.
However, Hanover might feel too quiet if you’re used to big-city life. The town has a limited number of restaurants, cafes, and shops, and nightlife is minimal compared to urban campuses. Students often mention that entertainment options can be limited to what’s happening on campus, especially on weekends. This aspect is frequently viewed as a con when evaluating the Dartmouth pros and cons.
The closest major city is Boston, and that’s about two hours away by car. If you love city life, the distance can feel inconvenient, and Dartmouth’s rural vibe could be a bit isolating. This is definitely something to consider if you need more than just small-town charm to keep you happy.
Social scene dominated by Greek life
Greek life is huge at Dartmouth—about 60% of eligible students are involved in fraternities or sororities. With over 30 Greek organizations on campus, it’s one of the most popular ways for students to socialize and get involved. This can be a big pro if you’re excited about joining Greek life. Greek organizations at Dartmouth are also known for hosting some of the biggest events on campus, including formals, charity fundraisers, and themed parties.
But if Greek life isn’t your thing, it might feel like a con. With so many students involved, it can dominate social activities, especially on weekends. Greek houses often serve as the center of Dartmouth’s social scene, hosting parties and events that draw a large portion of the student body.
While there are other ways to get involved—Dartmouth has over 160 clubs and organizations in everything from arts to politics—students who aren’t part of Greek life might feel a little left out of the main social circle.
High tuition costs
Dartmouth is expensive—there’s no way around it. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the total cost of attendance is about $90,000. While more than half of students receive financial aid, that’s still a hefty price tag if you don’t qualify for much assistance. The cost is definitely a con for students worried about graduating with debt.
That said, Dartmouth does have strong financial aid options. The school operates on a need-blind admissions policy for U.S. students, meaning your financial need won’t affect your chances of getting in. Once admitted, Dartmouth promises to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need, so you could receive significant support if you qualify. This strong financial aid system is frequently noted as a pro in the Dartmouth pros and cons debate.
Programs like the Dartmouth Scholarship offer grants that don’t need to be paid back, making college more affordable for lower and middle-income families. There’s also need-based aid, which considers factors like your family’s income, assets, and the cost of attendance. These financial aid offerings are often mentioned as a positive in the Dartmouth pros and cons.
For families with incomes under $125,000, Dartmouth guarantees that no loans will be included in financial aid packages, meaning students can graduate debt-free. However, the price can still be a significant financial burden for families with higher incomes or those who don’t qualify for as much aid. While Dartmouth works hard to make education accessible, the overall cost remains a consideration for many students.
Difficult to get into
Dartmouth is one of the most challenging schools to get into. With an acceptance rate of 6.90% for 2024, the competition is fierce. Dartmouth GPA requirements are high—most admitted students have a GPA of 3.9 or higher. In addition to that, Dartmouth’s SAT range is between 1500-1580, and the ACT range is 33-35, so you’ll need top scores to stay competitive. These selective admissions standards are often a significant con in the Dartmouth pros and cons.
Plus, you’ll need a solid extracurricular profile and standout essays to make the cut. If you’re wondering how hard it is to get into Dartmouth, the answer is: very. It’s not impossible, but you’ll need to start preparing early and keep your academic record spotless. For students who might not have top scores or grades, the difficulty of getting in can be a big hurdle, often seen as a negative in the Dartmouth pros and cons.
Overall, Dartmouth brings together strong academics, a tight-knit community, and great outdoor opportunities. Still, it also has challenges, like high costs and a social scene that’s not for everyone. By considering these Dartmouth pros and cons, you’ll get a clearer sense of whether it’s the right fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dartmouth a good school?
Yes, Dartmouth is considered one of the top Ivy League schools, known for its strong academics, personalized learning environment, and unique quarter system. It consistently ranks high in national and global university rankings, including being ranked #16 by Forbes in its Top Colleges 2025 and #18 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. This makes it a great choice for students seeking a well-rounded and challenging education.
What majors is Dartmouth known for?
Dartmouth is particularly well-known for majors like economics, government, engineering, computer science, psychology, environmental studies, and biological sciences. These highly regarded programs offer students rigorous academics and hands-on learning opportunities, which factor into many discussions about the Dartmouth pros and cons.
How to get into Dartmouth?
You’ll need a strong academic record, high standardized test scores, and meaningful extracurricular activities to get into Dartmouth. Most admitted students have a GPA of 3.9 or higher. Aim for an SAT score between 1500-1580 or an ACT score between 33-35. Focus on writing compelling essays and showcasing leadership roles, community service, and a clear passion for your interests, as these will help set you apart from other applicants.
How hard is it to get into Dartmouth?
Dartmouth is one of the most selective schools in the country, with an acceptance rate of 6.9% for 2024. The admissions process is highly competitive, so you’ll need excellent grades, test scores, and extracurriculars to stand a good chance of getting in. The difficulty of gaining admission is a common consideration in the Dartmouth pros and cons.
What are the Dartmouth GPA requirements?
Dartmouth doesn’t have a strict minimum GPA requirement, but most admitted students have a GPA of 3.9 or higher. You’ll need a strong academic track record to be competitive, especially in challenging courses like honors and AP classes.
Takeaways
- Dartmouth is a great option for students looking for close faculty-student interactions as it offers a strong academic experience with personalized learning.
- The flexible “D-Plan” lets students tailor their academic schedules to fit internships, study abroad, and other experiences.
- Dartmouth’s rural setting provides access to outdoor activities, but the social scene is heavily influenced by Greek life, which may not appeal to everyone.
- While Dartmouth’s high tuition is a concern, its generous financial aid packages make it more accessible to students from various financial backgrounds.
- Weighing the Dartmouth pros and cons can help you decide if it aligns with your personal and academic goals.
- If you’re still unsure whether Dartmouth is the right fit, consider working with a college admissions consultant to help you make the best decision for your future.
