Dartmouth College is a dream school for many students, and if you’re reading this, you might be wondering if it’s the right fit for you. Maybe you’ve heard about its Ivy League status, tight-knit campus community, or strong academics. But how does Dartmouth stack up in the rankings? Is it a top-tier school? And what do these rankings mean for you as a prospective student?
In this blog, we’ll break down Dartmouth’s national and global rankings, what they tell you about the college, and how they compare to other schools. We’ll also cover the admissions process, including important deadlines and requirements, as well as expert tips to help you strengthen your application
- How Does Dartmouth Rank Nationally and Globally?
- Dartmouth Application Process
- Other Dartmouth Rankings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
How Does Dartmouth Rank Nationally and Globally?
When it comes to college rankings, different organizations use different criteria. Some focus on academic reputation, while others examine faculty resources, graduation rates, and student satisfaction. Let’s take a closer look at where Dartmouth lands.
U.S. News & World Report
If you’re looking for a prestigious and supportive school, Dartmouth has a lot to offer. It’s consistently ranked among the top universities in the U.S., with strong academics, world-class faculty, and generous financial aid. Here’s how the U.S. News & World Report ranks Dartmouth:
| Category | Ranking |
| National Universities | #15 (tie) |
| Best Undergraduate Teaching | #5 |
| Best Value Schools | #9 |
| Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects | #36 (tie) |
| First-Year Experiences | #33 (tie) |
| Most Innovative Schools | #38 (tie) |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | #136 (tie) |
Dartmouth is known for its strong undergraduate focus, small class sizes, and engaged faculty. Some of its standout programs include:
| Program | Ranking |
| Economics | #15 (tie) |
| Engineering | #51 (tie) |
| Study Abroad | #13 |
College is a big investment, but don’t let the price tag scare you. As a “Best Value” school, Dartmouth is one of the best in the country when it comes to financial aid, and they guarantee to meet 100% of your demonstrated need.
First, let’s see how much it costs to attend Dartmouth:
| Expense | Cost |
| Tuition | $66,123 |
| Fees | $2,145 |
| Housing | $12,018 |
| Food | $7,981 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,005 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $2,040 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $91,312 |
First-year students also have an additional orientation fee of $499. There are also additional costs to keep in mind, such as health insurance ($4,371, if needed), computer ($1,700, one-time), and travel costs.
Now, here’s how Dartmouth’s financial aid works:
- 100% of demonstrated need covered.
- No student loans in financial aid packages.
- Families earning under $125,000 (with typical assets) have a $0 parent contribution.
- Aid is a mix of scholarships and work-study.
Even if your family earns over $125,000, you might still qualify for need-based aid. Dartmouth takes your entire financial situation into account. Loans are available, but they won’t be included in your financial aid package unless you request them.
Times Higher Education
If you’re considering studying at a top global university, Dartmouth has earned its spot on the world stage. According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, Dartmouth is ranked #168 globally, which is impressive considering the thousands of universities worldwide.
Here’s a breakdown of how Dartmouth scores in different areas:
| Category | Score |
| Teaching (Quality of Education & Faculty) | 56.8 |
| Research Environment (Opportunities for Academic Growth) | 39.4 |
| Research Quality (Impact & Influence of Research) | 83.2 |
| Industry (Connections & Real-World Application) | 75.9 |
| International Outlook (Diversity & Global Reach) | 60.5 |
| Overall | 60.7 |
Dartmouth is especially known for its high research quality and strong industry partnerships, making it a great place for students who want hands-on learning. The Geisel School of Medicine is leading breakthroughs in cancer research, neurology, and public health, while the Thayer School of Engineering focuses on renewable energy, biomedical engineering, and AI-driven technology.
Dartmouth faculty and students work on projects leading to real-world solutions, from developing advanced medical treatments to innovating clean energy and artificial intelligence. With strong funding and industry collaborations, Dartmouth ensures that research doesn’t stay in the lab but translates into meaningful advancements that shape industries and improve lives.
QS World University Rankings
In the QS World University Rankings 2025, Dartmouth is ranked #243 globally. While it may not be the highest-ranked university overall, it excels in key areas for your education and future career.
| Ranking Category | Ranking |
| QS WUR Ranking by Subject | #51-100 |
| QS Sustainability Ranking | #145 |
| Overall Ranking | #243 |
Dartmouth might be ranked #243 overall, but it shines in the areas that count. The QS WUR Ranking by Subject ranks in the top 51-100, meaning that programs like engineering, economics, political science, environmental sciences, and history are among the best worldwide. Take the Thayer School of Engineering, one of the oldest in the U.S., where you’ll get hands-on learning, real-world problem-solving, and an innovative approach to education.
At Thayer, engineering isn’t divided into separate departments, so you’ll learn everything under one roof. You’ll get to design and prototype real solutions, like in the popular ENGS 21: Introduction to Engineering course. If you’re serious about engineering, Dartmouth offers an ABET-accredited Bachelor of Engineering (BE) degree and a MEM program that blends engineering with business leadership through a partnership with the Tuck School of Business.
Dartmouth also takes sustainability seriously, ranking #145 in the QS Sustainability Ranking and committing to 50% renewable energy by 2025 and 100% by 2050. The Sustainability Task Force is leading efforts in energy, waste reduction, water conservation, and eco-friendly campus initiatives. If you’re passionate about the environment, Dartmouth’s top environmental studies program and research opportunities in renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable design will let you make a real impact.
Dartmouth Application Process
If Dartmouth is on your college list, it’s important to understand the admissions process. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know:
Application deadlines
Dartmouth offers Early Decision (ED), which is a binding agreement. If you apply ED and get accepted, you must attend. Here’s the timeline:
- August 1. Applications go live
- November 1. Early Decision application deadline
- Mid-December. ED admission decisions released
- May 2. Deadline to confirm enrollment
If you’re not ready to commit early, you can apply Regular Decision, with a deadline in early January.
Required materials
To apply, you’ll need to submit:
- Common App. This is your main application, where you’ll share your academic background, activities, and personal statement. Start early so you have plenty of time to review everything before submitting.
- Dartmouth Writing Supplement (three short essays). Dartmouth wants to hear your story, so these essays are a big part of your application. Choose prompts that let your personality shine. Check out our comprehensive guide for tips on tackling them.
- Application fee ($85, or you can request a waiver). The fee helps process your application, but you can request a waiver if it’s a financial burden. Don’t let the cost stop you from applying!
- High school transcript. This shows your academic performance. If you have strong grades and a challenging course load, it will help your application stand out.
- Counselor and two teacher recommendations. Choose teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths. Give them enough time to write a great letter!
- SAT/ACT scores. Dartmouth is returning the SAT/ACT requirement for the Class of 2029, and you’ll want to aim high. Most admitted students score 1440-1560 on the SAT or 32-35 on the ACT. Dartmouth superscores take your best section scores from different test dates. You can self-report your scores or have them sent officially to ensure they’re solid!
Other Dartmouth Rankings
Dartmouth goes beyond academics to give you a full college experience. From a smooth transition into college life to dominating in sports, there’s something here for everyone. Check out a few areas where Dartmouth stands out.
Top-tier first-year experience
Starting college can feel overwhelming, but Dartmouth ensures you settle in smoothly. Ranked #33 for First-Year Experiences by U.S. News & World Report, the school offers outdoor adventures through the Dartmouth Outing Club, strong advising programs, and plenty of mentorship opportunities. You’ll have a solid support system from day one, making the transition from high school to college much easier.
Elite rowing program
Dartmouth stands out in athletics, especially in rowing. The men’s heavyweight rowing team dominated at the Lake Morey Invitational, winning 13 out of 15 races against top crews like Boston University and Wisconsin. If you’re into rowing or just love being part of a winning tradition, Dartmouth has the energy and competition you’re looking for.
National champions in skiing
Dartmouth has one of the strongest ski teams in the country. The Big Green ski team brought home two national titles at the 2024 NCAA Skiing Championships, with John Steel Hagenbuch winning the 7.5k freestyle and Jasmine Drolet taking first in the 20k freestyle. With world-class training and a legacy of success, Dartmouth’s ski team continues to dominate the slopes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Dartmouth really that hard to get into?
Yep, Dartmouth is highly selective! With an acceptance rate of 5.3%, only a small percentage of applicants get in. You’ll need strong grades, impressive extracurriculars, and essays that showcase who you are beyond just the numbers to stand out.
2. Does Dartmouth give good financial aid?
Absolutely! Dartmouth covers 100% of demonstrated need, which means they’ll help make it affordable based on your family’s income. Plus, they don’t include student loans in their aid packages so that you won’t be drowning in debt after graduation. You might not have to pay anything if your family makes under $125,000!
3. What’s Dartmouth’s vibe like?
Dartmouth has a tight-knit, community-focused feel, so you won’t just be another face in the crowd. With small class sizes, tons of traditions, and a strong alumni network, it’s a place where people actually get to know each other. It’s also got that classic New England college town charm, so if you like the idea of snow, nature, and a close community, you’ll probably love it.
4. Will Dartmouth help me get a good job after college?
Dartmouth grads do well, with a median starting salary of around $95,500. Employers know the school’s name carries weight, and the alumni network is strong, so you’ll have plenty of connections. Whether into business, tech, medicine, or something else, Dartmouth sets you up for success.
Takeaways
- Dartmouth ranks #15 among national universities.
- Globally, Dartmouth is ranked #168 by Times Higher Education and #243 by QS, proving it holds its own on the world stage.
- If you’re into athletics, Dartmouth has an elite rowing program, a national champion ski team, and tons of club and intramural sports to keep you active.
- Dartmouth could be the perfect fit if you’re looking for a top-ranked school with strong academics, an unbeatable college experience, and competitive athletics.
- If you’re serious about getting into Dartmouth, AdmissionSight’s Private Consulting Program can help you craft a standout application with expert guidance on essays, strategy, and every part of the admissions process.
1 thought on “Dartmouth Ranking 2025: Stats + Admission Tips”
Well this story did not age well! A mere 4 months after publication Dartmouth has slid 5 spots to #18, and frankly, it’s where they belong. I know many of their grads and many have no job or subpar jobs. This year US News took that into account- ‘outcomes’. Alumni with no jobs- or low paying jobs- did not help your university in this year’s rankings- or in this case, ‘college’.