Most Commonly Searched Terms
The college admissions process involves terminology you might not encounter anywhere else. Use this online glossary to get up to speed on key admissions words and phrases.
Application
All candidates applying to Dartmouth must use an online form.
Early Decision
Students applying through the Early Decision cycle have the opportunity to gain early acceptance. Admission is "binding" which means students admitted to Dartmouth early are required to enroll.
Essay
The essay is an important part of your application, providing an opportunity to showcase your personality and intangibles that can't be easily reflected in a resume.
Holistic Admissions
Holistic admissions is grounded in the concept that the whole is more than merely the sum of its parts. At Dartmouth, this idea is at the forefront of our application review process.
Peer Recommendation
A written statement of support for the applicant's candidacy, completed by anyone the applicant considers a peer. It should not be someone who is in a supervisory role in the applicant's life.
Regular Decision
Students applying through the Regular Decision cycle have the opportunity to gain acceptance in the spring and, if admitted, have until May 1 to either accept or decline their offer.
Standardized Testing
Testing is not the ultimate factor in evaluating an application.