Does Dartmouth require the SAT for 2025-2026 applicants?
I'm planning to apply to Dartmouth next year as part of the Class of 2030, but I’m not sure where they stand on standardized testing for this cycle. Some of the Ivies have switched back to SAT/ACT requirements while others are still test-optional, and it’s honestly kind of confusing to keep track.
I’d really like to know if Dartmouth specifically is requiring the SAT for 2025-2026 admissions or if they’re still giving applicants the choice. I took the SAT once and got a decent score, but I’m not sure if it’s high enough to help my application. Also, if they do require it, does anyone know if the digital format is accepted, or if there are recommendations about sending both SAT and ACT scores if you have them?
I would appreciate any advice or info from people who are also applying or have already looked into Dartmouth’s recent policy changes!
I’d really like to know if Dartmouth specifically is requiring the SAT for 2025-2026 admissions or if they’re still giving applicants the choice. I took the SAT once and got a decent score, but I’m not sure if it’s high enough to help my application. Also, if they do require it, does anyone know if the digital format is accepted, or if there are recommendations about sending both SAT and ACT scores if you have them?
I would appreciate any advice or info from people who are also applying or have already looked into Dartmouth’s recent policy changes!
5 months ago
•
1126 views
Grayce Gibbs
• 5 months ago
Advisor
For the 2025-2026 admissions cycle (Class of 2030), Dartmouth has returned to requiring standardized testing. The college announced in spring 2024 that applicants must submit either SAT or ACT scores. This marks a change from the past few years, when Dartmouth and many other competitive colleges had test-optional policies due to the pandemic.
Regarding your questions, here's what applies for this upcoming cycle:
1. You must submit an SAT or ACT score for your application to be considered. The test-optional policy no longer applies to first-year applicants unless you qualify for specific exceptions (for example, if you’re unable to access testing for reasons beyond your control, but you must petition for a waiver).
2. Dartmouth does accept the digital SAT as well as the paper format. The College Board transitioned the SAT to digital in most countries starting in 2023, so both the new digital version and the ACT are equally valid for Dartmouth's requirements.
3. You are only required to submit one test (SAT or ACT), not both. However, if you think both sets of scores strengthen your application, Dartmouth allows you to submit both. Generally, it makes sense to submit whichever score is stronger compared to Dartmouth’s recent class profiles. For the Class of 2027, the middle 50% SAT range was about 1490–1560, and the ACT range was 33–35.
If you’re on the fence about whether your SAT score is competitive, compare it with these ranges. Strong scores can help, but remember, test scores are one part of a holistic review.
Here’s a quick example: If you scored a 1500 on the SAT and a 32 on the ACT, you’d probably benefit by submitting the SAT since it sits within Dartmouth’s typical range, while a 32 ACT is below their median. If you’re concerned about the strength of your score, you can always reach out to Dartmouth admissions for more guidance.
Regarding your questions, here's what applies for this upcoming cycle:
1. You must submit an SAT or ACT score for your application to be considered. The test-optional policy no longer applies to first-year applicants unless you qualify for specific exceptions (for example, if you’re unable to access testing for reasons beyond your control, but you must petition for a waiver).
2. Dartmouth does accept the digital SAT as well as the paper format. The College Board transitioned the SAT to digital in most countries starting in 2023, so both the new digital version and the ACT are equally valid for Dartmouth's requirements.
3. You are only required to submit one test (SAT or ACT), not both. However, if you think both sets of scores strengthen your application, Dartmouth allows you to submit both. Generally, it makes sense to submit whichever score is stronger compared to Dartmouth’s recent class profiles. For the Class of 2027, the middle 50% SAT range was about 1490–1560, and the ACT range was 33–35.
If you’re on the fence about whether your SAT score is competitive, compare it with these ranges. Strong scores can help, but remember, test scores are one part of a holistic review.
Here’s a quick example: If you scored a 1500 on the SAT and a 32 on the ACT, you’d probably benefit by submitting the SAT since it sits within Dartmouth’s typical range, while a 32 ACT is below their median. If you’re concerned about the strength of your score, you can always reach out to Dartmouth admissions for more guidance.
Grayce Gibbs
Denver, CO
Dartmouth College (AB); Colorado School of Mines (MS)
Experience
4 years