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Parents of prospective students



Parents of Prospective Students

When you think of the life you want for your child someday, just know that we’ve been dedicated to making it a reality for nearly 250 years.


92%
of medical school applicants are admitted.
96%
of law school applicants are admitted.

92%
of Dickinson students have an internship, externship or fieldwork experience—in every major.

More than 95%
of our graduates are employed, in grad school or in a fellowship program within one year.
About 60%
of our students study abroad, and all financial aid applies and academic credits transfer back.

Our students get published, present at national conferences and use lab equipment usually reserved for graduate students.

And everything at Dickinson happens in a community deeply invested in your child’s growth and success. Professors, advisors and coaches care about their students, and the entire Dickinson supports one another in a healthy, collaborative environment.

But is Dickinson right for your family?

Here are some (surprisingly quick) things to consider to start really figuring it out. (And for a more thorough deep-dive, check out our Future College Parent Toolkit).

Location & Setting

Does your student want to live in your hometown, a short drive away, a 3-hour flight away, on the other side of the country or somewhere across the world? The answer to this question will help the entire family start to frame the college question in a structured way.

And where does your student want to spend the next four years? In a big city, a small town, or maybe somewhere off in the middle of nowhere? Dickinson happens to be located in the ultimate college town, so if that’s what you’re looking for, look no further!

The Big Three

Now that you’ve decided where your student wants to be geographically and in what sort of setting, here are three more vital things to consider:

  1. Does the college have your student’s intended major?
  2. Can your student get in?
  3. Can your family afford it?

Those are all really important questions, and only you can answer them (although it’s more than likely that Dickinson has whatever major your student is looking for, and we award more than $80 million in aid each year, making a Dickinson education affordable for most students).

Visit Campus

There’s no better way to find out if a new college will feel like a new home for your student than visiting. Yes, online galleries are nice, video tours are a good time and all those social media posts they’re liking can build a good mental foundation.

But stepping onto a college campus is the No. 1 best way to get that “all the feels” feel. So check out our visit options, bring the whole family and come take a look around!


Links for Parents



Notable Alumni

Notable Alumni

Discover, through the stories and experiences of our alumni, where your student's Dickinson education can lead!

First-Year Admission

First-Year Admission

Learn how interested applicants should proceed through the college search and application process.

Diversity & Inclusivity

Diversity & Inclusivity

Explore Dickinson's commitment to an inclusive environment, as well as opportunities for prospective students and families to visit and learn more.