What is Denison University's acceptance rate?

Denison University's acceptance rate is 17.4%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for Denison University?

Admitted students typically score about 1320–1490 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 30–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Denison University test-optional?

Denison University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Denison University Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (17.4%)

17.4%

Acceptance rate

1320–1490

SAT (mid 50%)

30–33

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into Denison University?

With a 17.4% acceptance rate, Denison University is highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. It enrolls roughly 2,394 undergraduates (small town setting) in Granville, OH. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1320–1490 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 30–33.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.76. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at Denison University's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $71,000 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Communication · Economics · Environmental Studies · Psychology

See the Common App personal-statement guide

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Denison University admissions FAQ

What is Denison University's acceptance rate?: Denison University's acceptance rate is 17.4%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Denison University?: Admitted students typically score about 1320–1490 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 30–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Denison University test-optional?: Denison University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Denison University official website
Denison University on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Denison University’s official admissions site.