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.
Alumni Interview
An in-person or virtual interview offered by a Dartmouth alumnus/a to first-year applicants.
Application Deadline
Your Common App should be submitted on or before the deadline.
Application Fee Waiver
If paying the application fee would cause unusual financial hardship for you or your family, you may be eligible for a waiver. Requesting a fee waiver will not disadvantage your candidacy in any way.
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.
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.
Recommendations
Dartmouth requires a counselor recommendation, two teacher recommendations, and strongly encourages a peer recommendation.
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.
Supplemental Materials
Supplemental materials include any additional information that is not required for your application to be complete.