How to Get Into Dartmouth With a Scholarship: A Guide for Indian and International Students

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How to Get Into Dartmouth With a Scholarship

Dreaming of studying abroad at Dartmouth College, a prestigious Ivy League institution, and securing a scholarship to make it possible? For Indian students, Dartmouth College offers the best and most rewarding academic environment, alongside a lot of financial aid. This guide helps you with the knowledge and strategies of “How to Get Into Dartmouth With a Scholarship” to craft a compelling application for your desired program, including Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctoral Degree programs, whether it is Computer Science with a specialisation in Artificial Intelligence, or Economics with a focus on Development Studies.

From acing the admissions process to highlighting your strengths as an Indian applicant, we’ll show you how to get into Dartmouth with a scholarship from ace the application process to highlight your skills as an Indian candidate.

Why Study at Dartmouth College?

Dartmouth College offers a compelling combination of academic excellence, a supportive community, and unique opportunities, making it an ideal choice for Indian students seeking a well-rounded, enriching undergraduate experience. Here are some of the important reasons why you might consider Dartmouth.

  • As an Ivy League school, Dartmouth boasts a challenging curriculum taught by world-class professors who are passionate about their fields.
  • Dartmouth’s liberal arts curriculum allows you to explore a wide range of subjects before specialising.
  • Unlike some universities or colleges with massive graduate programs, Dartmouth prioritises undergraduate learning.
  • More interaction with professors and greater access to research opportunities.
  • The small size of the college (around 4,000 undergraduates) allows you to build strong relationships with classmates and professors.
  • Situated in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth offers a beautiful campus nestled amidst stunning natural scenery.
  • Dartmouth has a powerful and supportive alumni network that can provide you with career guidance, mentorship, and access to professional opportunities after graduation.

Also Read: Study in USA For Free: A Guide to Study in America for Free

Types of Scholarship at Dartmouth College

Dartmouth offers a need-based scholarship rather than merit-based awards. These scholarships are determined by a student’s financial circumstances. Here are the major types of scholarship at Dartmouth College:

  • Dartmouth Need-Based Scholarship: Dartmouth meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for both domestic and international students. The scholarship amount can range from partial funding to full tuition coverage, including living expenses.
  • King Scholars Program: Specifically designed for exceptional students from developing countries, the King Scholarship Program provides full funding, including tuition, housing, and travel costs. Scholarships also provide leadership training and mentorships.
  • Outside Scholarships: Dartmouth allows students to use external scholarships from governments, foundations or organisations, which can supplement or reduce their financial aid package. 
  • Dartmouth Loans and Work-Study: While the focus is on scholarships and grants, Dartmouth also offers students employment opportunities to help cover personal expenses. 

Eligibility Criteria for Dartmouth College

Dartmouth College, like all US universities, applies the same eligibility criteria to all international students, regardless of their nationality, including students from India. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria for how to get into Dartmouth with a scholarship.

  • A strong academic performance in your high school coursework.
  • There’s no minimum GPA requirement; admitted students typically have GPAs close to 4.0 on an unweighted scale.
  • Standardised Testing (Optional), submitting good scores on the SAT or ACT can strengthen your application.
  • You’ll need to submit scores from an English proficiency test like the TOEFL or IELTS.
  • Dartmouth doesn’t have a minimum score requirement, but successful applicants typically score above 100 on the TOEFL,  above a 7 on the IELTS, or equivalent scores on other accepted tests.
  • Submit official transcripts from your high school, translated into English if necessary.
  • Strong letters of recommendation from teachers.
  • The application essay is your chance to showcase your personality, goals, and unique experiences.

Cost of Studying at Dartmouth College

The cost of studying at Dartmouth College for Indian students can be significant, but there’s financial aid available to help bridge the gap. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of studying at Dartmouth College.

ParticularAverage Costs
TuitionEstimated at $66,123
FeesExpect to pay around $2,145 for mandatory college fees
HousingOn-campus housing costs around $12,018 per year
FoodEstimated at $7,981 per year
Books and SuppliesBudget around $1,015 per term for textbooks, course materials, and other supplies
Personal ExpensesThe amount can vary depending on your lifestyle, but factor in some additional funds.

Also Read: Top 20 Scholarships for International Students Around 

Scholarships to Get into Dartmouth College

Dartmouth’s financial aid is primarily need-based, and merit scholarships are awarded based on overall qualifications, not nationality. However, there are still ways for Indian students to increase their chances of financial aid.

Scholarship NameEligibilityCoverage
Need-Based Aid from DartmouthAll admitted studentsMeets 100% of demonstrated financial need
Automatic Scholarship ConsiderationAll applicantsVaries based on financial need
Merit Scholarships from DartmouthExceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, contribution to diversityVaries
External Scholarships from IndiaVaries by scholarshipVaries by scholarship
U.S. Government ScholarshipsIndian citizens pursuing specific fields of study (e.g., Fulbright-Nehru, Fulbright Foreign Student Program)Varies by program
International ScholarshipsInternational students demonstrating academic excellence (e.g., The Rhodes Scholarship, The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship)Varies by program
Merit-Based Scholarships from U.S. Non-ProfitsHigh academic achievement, potential for leadership, specific demographics (e.g., The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, The Davidson Fellows Program)Varies by program

How to Get into Dartmouth College from India?

Cracking into Dartmouth College from India is challenging, but it is possible. Here’s a plan to make your application stronger.

  • Aim for a GPA close to 4.0 on an unweighted scale.
  • High scores on the SAT or ACT can strengthen your application.
  • Participate in extracurricular activities beyond just being a member.
  • Seek leadership roles and showcase initiative in your pursuits.
  • Show a strong interest in a particular field.
  • Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early.
  • Highlight exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and contributions to diversity.
  • Write compelling essays that showcase your personality, goals, and unique experiences as an Indian student.
  • Take advantage of the opportunity to provide additional information specific to Dartmouth.

Indian students applying to Dartmouth College Must Meet The Following Criteria

Dartmouth College welcomes applications from talented students around the world, including India. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to get into Dartmouth College with a Scholarship.

  • Aim for excellent academic performance in your high school coursework.
  • There’s no minimum GPA requirement, but admitted students typically have strong grades.
  • Submitting good scores on the SAT or ACT can strengthen your application.
  • Need to submit scores from an English proficiency test like the TOEFL or IELTS. Specific score.
  • Submit official transcripts from your high school, translated into English if necessary.
  • Strong letters of recommendation.
  • Showcase your personality, goals, and unique experiences as an Indian student.
  • You’ll need a student visa to study in the US.

Tips to Get Into Dartmouth College For Indian Students

Dartmouth College, a prestigious Ivy League institution, can be a dream destination for Indian students. Here are some key strategies to strengthen your application to get into Dartmouth with a scholarship.

  • While there’s no minimum GPA, admitted students typically excel academically.
  • Get a GPA close to 4.0 on an unweighted scale throughout high school (CBSE, ICSE, or IB).
  • Consider taking the SAT or ACT, and aim for high scores.
  • Strong scores can significantly enhance your application.
  • Seek leadership roles and demonstrate initiative in your extracurricular pursuits.
  • Highlight exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and how you contribute to diversity for these less common scholarships.
  • Research and apply for external scholarships from Indian organisations that align with your background and interests.
  • Write impactful essays that showcase your personality, goals, and unique experiences as an Indian student.
  • Apply early (ideally by December for scholarship priority) and submit all required materials on time.

Challenges of Getting into Dartmouth College For Indian Students

Indian students want to go to Dartmouth College, but it can be hard to get in because there are so many applicants. Here are some of the most important challenges you might have to deal with.

  • The cost of attending Dartmouth, even with financial aid, can be substantial for international students from India.
  • Earning top grades in a competitive Indian high school system (CBSE, ICSE, or IB) is important.
  • Dartmouth considers the “whole person,” not just academics.
  • Obtaining a student visa to study in the US can be a complex process.
  • Standing out in a pool of talented international applicants can be tough.
  • Communication and coordination with admissions officers can be challenging due to the significant time zone difference between India and the US.

Also Read: Zolve Launches $50000 Global Scholarship Program

Getting into Dartmouth College with a scholarship in 2025 is highly competitive, but not impossible. With a strong academic record, genuine extracurricular achievement, and a well-crafted application, you can significantly improve your chances. Dartmouth’s commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need makes it one of the most supportive Ivy League universities for talented students worldwide. Start preparing early, stay organised, and aim to present a complete profile that reflects both your academic excellence and your personal story.

FAQ’s

Can you get a full scholarship to Dartmouth?

The scholarships that Dartmouth gives out are made possible by the donations of graduates, businesses, and non-profits. However, the school only has so many grant funds, so they might not be able to meet all of the needs of every student.

Is Dartmouth generous to international students?

International students can get funding and loans from Dartmouth College.

Does Dartmouth meet 100% need?

Dartmouth promises to meet all accepted students who ask for help and show they need it, no matter what country they are from.

Related Reads 

Undergraduate Scholarships in the USA Fully Funded Scholarships in USA for International Students
List of Scholarship Universities in the USA: Dates, FeesRequirements for Scholarships in USA for International Students …
Popular Scholarships for USA September Intake 2025Less-Known Scholarships in the USA for International 

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