
100 West College Street, Granville, OH 43023, USA


Denison University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a recognized regional accreditor. This accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards of quality in its educational programs, faculty qualifications, and institutional resources. For prospective students, this means that credits earned at Denison University are widely accepted by other accredited institutions and that the university maintains a commitment to academic rigor and continuous improvement. The accreditation status also plays a crucial role in eligibility for federal financial aid and other funding opportunities for students.
Denison University maintains a selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of approximately 17%, placing it among the more competitive institutions nationally. Prospective students must have completed secondary school with a required minimum GPA and submit a secondary school record as part of the application. A General Educational Development (GED) credential is accepted in lieu of a traditional high school diploma. Recommendations from educators or relevant individuals are mandatory to support the application.
Applicants are required to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting TOEFL scores. While specific admission test scores such as SAT or ACT are not explicitly mandated, submitting them is generally recommended, and the university admits students with high academic achievement in standardized testing. The average SAT score for admitted students is about 1330, reflecting placement in the top 15% nationally, with notably strong scores in Math and Writing sections. Similarly, the average ACT score hovers around 30, positioning students within the top 10% percentile.
Denison University does not implement an open admission policy, indicating its selective nature. Although the university neither requires applicants to provide evidence of computer ownership nor insists on computer lease agreements, participation in prior college programs is a prerequisite. Dual credit and transfer credits are not accepted, but Advanced Placement (AP) credits are recognized, allowing some flexibility for incoming students.
Overall, applicants to Denison University should prepare a comprehensive application that includes solid academic records, standardized test scores, proof of English proficiency, and strong recommendations to meet the institution's expectations.
Denison University requires an application fee from prospective students, with the standard charge set at a moderate level common among similar institutions. However, the university recognizes the financial challenges applicants may face and offers fee waivers to eligible students. These waivers are typically granted based on demonstrated financial need or participation in programs designed to support college access for underrepresented groups.
The application fee waiver can be requested through the Common Application or Coalition Application platforms, where students indicate their eligibility. Additionally, Denison University considers fee waiver eligibility confirmed by the College Board or the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC).
Applicants are encouraged to inquire about fee waivers if they believe the standard application fee presents a barrier, as the university aims to promote equitable access for all prospective students. These provisions help ensure that financial constraints do not prevent qualified candidates from applying.
Denison University does not host its own Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) units but participates in ROTC programs through a cooperating host institution. This arrangement allows students interested in military training and careers to enroll in ROTC courses and training exercises at a nearby partner university while attending Denison.
Transfer applicants to Denison University face a moderately difficult admission process. The university does accept transfer credits, which can facilitate the continuation of prior academic work. Prospective students have the opportunity to transfer for the fall and spring terms, though availability for winter and summer terms is unspecified.
Denison University offers an extensive range of study abroad programs designed to accommodate varied academic interests and personal growth goals. Students can participate in faculty-led short-term excursions, semester or year-long exchanges, and programs hosted by partner institutions around the globe. These opportunities span numerous regions, including Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa, allowing students to immerse themselves in diverse cultures while pursuing their coursework.
The university supports individualized study abroad experiences tailored to a student's major or minor, ensuring academic credits align with their degree requirements. Faculty-led programs often focus on interdisciplinary topics, providing hands-on learning environments beyond the traditional classroom setting. Additionally, Denison encourages engagement with local communities overseas, fostering both cultural understanding and practical application of studies.
Beyond program variety, Denison emphasizes comprehensive advising for students planning to study abroad. This includes assistance with academic planning, financial aid considerations, and logistical support to ensure a smooth transition to international study. The university's commitment to global education underscores its aim to prepare students for increasingly interconnected professional and social landscapes.
Median composite SAT score
1330Median composite ACT score
30Percent of students submitting ACT scores
25%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
26%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring