Bowdoin vs Dartmouth
How Bowdoin and Dartmouth stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Bowdoin | Dartmouth | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 6.5% | 6.0% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1420-1560 | 1500-1570 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Required |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | ME | NH |
| Sticker price (per year) | $88,820 | $87,279 |
| Average cost after aid | $23,000 | $26,500 |
| Supplemental essays | 2 | 3 |
- Dartmouth is harder to get into than Bowdoin (6.0% versus 6.5%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Bowdoin is usually the cheaper option ($23,000 versus $26,500 per year on average).
- On testing, Bowdoin is test-optional while Dartmouth requires SAT or ACT scores.
- Dartmouth asks for more supplemental writing (3 essays versus 2), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Bowdoin vs Dartmouth FAQ
Is Bowdoin or Dartmouth harder to get into?
Dartmouth is harder to get into, admitting about 6.0% of applicants versus 6.5% at Bowdoin.
Is Bowdoin or Dartmouth cheaper?
After financial aid, Bowdoin is usually cheaper, about $23,000 per year on average versus $26,500 at Dartmouth.
See your real chances at Bowdoin and Dartmouth.
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