Strength in Numbers

A record number of students applied for a spot in the class of 2020.

This Red Devil is hiding in each acceptance packet, ready to welcome new members of #dson2020 during this record-setting year. Photo by Carl Socolow '77.

Applications for the class of 2020 are in, and they are record-breaking

by Lauren Davidson

Dickinson received an impressive 6,140 applications for the class of 2020, making this a record-setting year for college. The next-highest application total was 6,067 in fall 2011 for the class of 2015. During challenging times for colleges and universities, a Dickinson education remains in demand. From the admissions staff’s personalized recruitment strategies and strong campus-visit program, to Dickinson’s distinctive approaches to global and sustainability education and the success of our alumni, it’s easy to see why.

Highlights from this outstanding pool include a 15 percent increase in applications from international students, with 92 countries represented, and a 7 percent increase in applications from domestic students of color. Domestic applications were submitted from 45 states, plus Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Also of note: Even though Dickinson has a long history of being test optional, the average SAT score of applicants for the class of 2020 is up 16 points over last year.  

"While it is terrific to celebrate the largest applicant pool in Dickinson's history, I am really excited about the connections that these students have demonstrated in their schools and communities,” says Dean of Admissions Catherine McDonald Davenport ’87. “Choosing from among such amazing applicants will be challenging.”

The entire Dickinson community looks forward to celebrating this record-setting success on campus and off. Accepted students and their families will have opportunities to connect in Carlisle and meet future classmates, network with alumni and engage with faculty and administrators during the Class of 2020 Preview on Feb. 25 (read about last year’s program), Admitted Student Preview Day on April 16 and Made-to-Order Days on April 6, 13 and 20. (Registration information will be provided to accepted students via email.)

Off-campus events range from big-city venues to private residences in locations from Baltimore to Los Angeles, including five presidential receptions, and admissions staff and volunteers will be reaching out to admitted students and their parents all around the globe.

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Published February 11, 2016