Acceptance rate rises slightly to between 19 and 20%

Donald Keough, News Editor–

Denison received its fourth-highest number of applicants this year at 12,000, down from last year’s 15,000 applicants. The acceptance rate is expected to shift from 17% for the class of 2028 to about 19 or 20% for the class of 2029.

“Denison had another strong admission year despite demographic shifts indicating fewer college-going high school graduates and national trends toward larger institutions and public flagships,” said Meg Ulsh ‘12, the Vice President for Enrollment Management in an email response.

Although the number of applicants decreased, there was an 8% increase in domestic student applications, and about 30 more students were enrolled through early decision than last year. 

“This is an excellent indicator that students are seeking out Denison as a first-choice college,” Ulsh said. 

In addition, Ulsh also said that this year’s acceptance rate meets the university’s target. 

“Our admission sweet spot is in the high teens to low 20s range, which demonstrates that we are highly selective and sought-after while being approachable to bright students with many interests who are well-rounded academically and socially.”

Since 2022, Denison’s acceptance rate has fallen into this range consistently, decreasing from a 50% acceptance rate ten years ago. 

According to a study by Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE), this year will be the country’s final year of increasing high-school applicants, and will decline steadily by 14.3% by 2040. 

Even still, Ulsh hopes that Denison can continue attracting a high number of applicants. 

“Denison’s demonstrated strength in the areas prospective students and their families are looking for makes a difference: Our rigorous academic experience with a highly relational community, a strong commitment to career services — the fourth best in the U.S. according to Princeton Review — and a setting that offers the benefits of a small town with proximity to the opportunities of a larger city.”

Admitted students will have the opportunity to visit during admitted students days, and are encouraged to commit by National College Decision Day on May 1.