How to Approach the Dartmouth Application and Essays

Dartmouth College often gets grouped in with the rest of the Ivy League, but its application requires a slightly different mindset. Students who do best with Dartmouth tend to understand what makes it distinct and can explain why that environment genuinely fits them. 

If you are applying to Dartmouth, the goal is not to sound impressive or overly academic. The goal is to show curiosity, openness, and a willingness to engage deeply with a close knit community. 

What makes Dartmouth different 

Dartmouth is the smallest Ivy League school, and that shapes almost every part of the student experience. Classes are smaller, faculty relationships are closer, and campus life feels more intimate. Students often describe Dartmouth as collaborative rather than competitive. 

Another defining feature is the D Plan, Dartmouth’s unique quarter system. Instead of traditional semesters, students rotate through terms and can choose when to be on campus or off campus. This allows for internships, research, study abroad, and other experiences throughout the year, not just in the summer. 

Dartmouth is also deeply connected to the outdoors. Located in Hanover, New Hampshire, it attracts students who value nature, balance, and community traditions alongside academic rigor. This does not mean you need to be an athlete or outdoorsy to belong, but it does mean appreciating a campus culture that is intentionally different from urban Ivies. 

Understanding what Dartmouth looks for 

Dartmouth admissions officers evaluate students holistically, but they are especially attentive to fit. They want students who will take advantage of the close community and contribute meaningfully to it. 

They value: 

•  Intellectual curiosity and discussion based learning 

•  Engagement over time rather than checking boxes 

• Authenticity and self awareness 

• Students who thrive in smaller academic environments 

Dartmouth is not looking for one type of student. They are looking for students who know why this particular environment works for them. 

Approaching the Dartmouth essays 

Dartmouth’s supplemental essays are an opportunity to show how you think and how you see yourself in their community. These essays are less about listing accomplishments and more about reflection and connection. 

When answering the Why Dartmouth essay, avoid generic statements about prestige or rankings. Admissions officers want to see that you understand what makes Dartmouth unique. 

Strong responses often reference: 

• The D Plan and how it supports your goals 

• Small classes or discussion based learning 

• Faculty relationships or specific departments 

• Campus traditions or the sense of community 

Be specific, but do not force details. Write about the aspects of Dartmouth that genuinely excite you and explain why. 

Other Dartmouth prompts often ask about personal growth, perspective, or experiences that shaped you. These essays work best when they are grounded and honest. Dartmouth values thoughtful reflection more than dramatic storytelling. 

Voice matters more than polish 

Dartmouth essays should sound like you. Overly formal language or trying to sound academic can distance the reader. Write clearly, directly, and with intention. 

Admissions officers want to hear your voice and understand how you process experiences. It is okay to show uncertainty or ongoing growth. Dartmouth appreciates students who are thoughtful and reflective, not perfectly packaged. 

Final advice 

Approaching the Dartmouth application is about alignment. If you understand the culture, appreciate the community, and can explain why that environment supports who you are and who you want to become, your application will feel natural and cohesive. 

Dartmouth is a place where students engage deeply with their peers, their professors, and their surroundings. Your application should reflect that same depth and intention. 

At PathIvy, we help students articulate fit clearly and authentically, especially for schools like Dartmouth where culture and community matter as much as academics.