A straight answer: 16.9% acceptance rate.
This means for every 100 applicants, only 17 actually get in. No guessing. Denison University is a 4YEAR institution located in Granville, OH — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.
Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)
Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:
Men
Women
If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.
Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters
This is where the reality hits:
Yield Rate: N/A
This shows how many admitted students choose Denison University. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.
What Scores Do You Need?
If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.
How Competitive Is Denison University? Making Sense of the Acceptance Rate
Students often equate acceptance rate with competitiveness, but the relationship isn’t always straightforward. The acceptance rate at Denison University offers a useful snapshot, yet it doesn’t capture the full admissions landscape.
With an acceptance rate of 16.9%, Denison University admits a significant portion of its applicants—but that doesn’t mean admissions outcomes are uniform. Different students experience different levels of competition based on how and where they apply.
The Hidden Layers Behind Acceptance Rates
Acceptance rates are shaped by applicant mix. Universities that attract students across a wide academic spectrum often report higher acceptance rates, even when expectations within certain programs are rigorous.
At Denison University, students applying with a clear academic focus may encounter a very different admissions process than those applying without a defined direction. Program demand, preparation level, and alignment all matter.
Why Context Matters More Than Percentages
Acceptance rates are best understood as context, not conclusions. They help frame the admissions environment but don’t account for individual strengths or weaknesses.
For students researching the acceptance rate at Denison University, the most valuable takeaway is not the number itself, but what it suggests about how competitive the applicant pool might be—and how preparation and fit influence outcomes.
Admissions Insight
Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?
Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.
Your Chances of Getting Into Denison University
Let’s keep it real:
- ✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
- 🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
- ❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles
If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.
What's my real shot?
Acceptance Odds Estimator
Estimate your admission probability at Denison University based on your unique profile.
Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.
Try Right Fit MatcherHow Students Should Use Admissions Information Going Forward
After reviewing admissions data, many students feel pressure to draw firm conclusions. But college admissions rarely reward certainty — they reward preparation and thoughtful decision-making.
Admissions outcomes are influenced by shifting factors: applicant interest, program capacity, and institutional priorities. That’s why the same university can feel approachable to one student and competitive to another.
Turning Research into Strategy
The best applicants use admissions information to shape their approach, not limit their options. They ask where they are competitive, where they may need stronger positioning, and how each school fits into their overall goals.
If Denison University aligns with your academic direction and expectations, then admissions data should help you plan — not second-guess yourself. Strategy, not speculation, leads to better outcomes.
Should You Apply to Denison University?
If 16.9% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.
- Will I be a standout here?
- Do I like the vibe?
- Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
- Is this my best-fit major here?
Explore Denison University
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs About Denison University Acceptance Rate
Is Denison test-optional?
Yes. Denison uses a test-optional policy, so applicants may choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. Admissions will consider scores if provided but do not require them for admission decisions.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio and typical class size?
Denison's student-to-faculty ratio is about 9:1. Many classes are small, often under 20 students, which supports close interaction with professors and seminar-style learning.
What career and internship support does Denison offer?
Denison provides robust career services, including individualized career advising, internship placement support, an active alumni network, and on-campus recruiting. These resources help students explore career paths and secure postgraduation opportunities.
What is the campus environment like?
Denison is a residential liberal arts campus located in Granville, Ohio. It offers a close-knit community with active student life and traditions. The setting is small-town rather than urban, with regional city access for internships and cultural opportunities.
Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual
Denison University isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.
Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.
Unlock Your Best Shot with Orbit
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