D-Plan

With Dartmouth's distinctive D-Plan, you customize your own academic calendar. 

The term "D-Plan" refers to the flexibility Dartmouth gives its students in choosing when they take classes and when they're on break. But the plan isn't about Dartmouth, it's about each individual student. Within a few guidelines, students have the autonomy to schedule their classes and breaks around their academic, research, and professional interests.

Here's what you need to know as you consider your potential D-Plan: 

  • Residence Terms are quarters in which you're enrolled in classes. You're required to complete residence terms during the fall, winter, and spring of your first year, two of the three quarters of your senior year, and one summer quarter. Most students opt for their summer quarter after their sophomore year.
  • Leave Terms are quarters when you're not enrolled. You'll take at least one leave term during a fall or spring quarter, and likely at least one during the summer.

The D-Plan offers unparalleled opportunities for internships and research.

The academic calendars at most schools require students to fit internships into their summer break. The D-plan gives students the flexibility to pursue internships and research fellowships at any time of year.

If you need funding to make your leave-term a success you can apply for Dartmouth grants from centers on campus like the Tucker Center, the Dickey Center for International Understanding, the Rockefeller Center for Public Policy, and the Financial Aid Office.

Need advice on looking for leave-term opportunities? Career services, the thousands of alumni in the Career Network, and upperclass students who've been there are all ready to help connect you with life-changing experiences.

No two D-plans are identical. What will yours look like?