Chances of Getting Into Denison University
Granville, Ohio • Private University • #41 National • Founded 1831
Denison Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Denison SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Denison University
Denison University is a selective liberal arts college in Granville, Ohio, that has transformed itself into one of the most competitive LACs in the Midwest. Known for its data-driven approach to career outcomes and beautiful hilltop campus.
Top Programs
What Makes Denison Unique
- Knowlton Center — exceptional career services and internship placement
- Beautiful hilltop campus in charming Granville, Ohio
- One of the fastest-rising LACs in selectivity
- Red Frame Lab for design thinking and innovation
- Strong alumni network in finance and consulting
Denison Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Denison Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Denison: Admission Tips
Denison ED acceptance rate (~50%) is strong — use it if it's your top choice
Mention the Knowlton Center and career preparation in your essays
Denison has gotten dramatically more selective — take the application seriously
Demonstrated interest matters — visit campus or attend events
Show intellectual curiosity and community engagement
The Brutal Truth About Denison Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 20% acceptance rate, Denison rejected over 9,600 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Denison, having a 3.6 GPA and 1355 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Denison doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if Denison genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 20%-acceptance-rate basket.
Denison Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Denison University?
Denison University has an acceptance rate of 20% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 12,000+ applicants, approximately 600 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Denison?
The average GPA of admitted students at Denison University is 3.6. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.45, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Denison?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Denison students is 1280-1430. The average SAT score is 1355. For ACT, the range is 29-32 with an average of 31.
Is Denison hard to get into?
Yes, Denison University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 20%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does Denison cost?
Tuition at Denison University is $62,200 per year, with total cost of attendance at $78,800. However, 55% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $40,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Denison?
Your chances of getting into Denison University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 20% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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Popular Majors at Denison
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