Take the next step toward your future at Dean College. Our application process is straightforward, and our Admissions team is here to help you at every stage.

Apply as a First-Year Student

Your college experience should be as individual as you are. At Dean, you’ll find a welcoming community where professors know your name, support is always within reach and opportunities to learn extend far beyond the classroom. Here, you’ll have the freedom to explore your interests, build confidence and prepare for what comes next.

Your Application Checklist

To apply as a first-year student, submit:

Required

Optional

  • SAT or ACT scores
  • One or more letters of recommendation
  • A personal statement or essay

Dean is test optional. If you submit SAT or ACT scores, we will consider them only when they strengthen your application. Choosing not to submit scores will not negatively affect your admission or scholarship consideration.

Optional materials such as an essay or recommendation can help us learn more about your experiences, interests and goals.

If you completed college coursework while in high school, please also submit an official transcript from the college so we can evaluate the courses for possible transfer credit.

The admissions office reserves the right to request additional information to assist with your application review.

How to Submit Your Materials

Supporting materials may be submitted:

  • Electronically through your school counseling office 
  • By email to admissions@dean.edu
  • By fax to 508-541-8726
  • By mail to Office of Admission, Dean College, 99 Main Street, Franklin, MA 02038

How We Review Applications

Dean uses a holistic application review process. We consider your academic preparation, performance and potential for success, as well as the experiences and interests you may bring to the Dean community.

Applicants are generally expected to have completed:

  • Four years of English
  • Three years of mathematics
  • Three years of science
  • Three years of social science

The Office of Admission may request additional information when needed to complete its review.

Additional Program Requirements

Some programs have requirements beyond the general application:

  • Dance and Theatre: Complete an audition and submit a photo and performance résumé. Review Audition Requirements.
  • Arch Learning Community: Indicate your interest on your Dean application and review the additional requirements, including the program interview. Review Arch Requirements.
  • Engage: Students admitted to Dean may apply to enroll in Engage. Learn About Engage.

Application Deadlines

Fall admission

  • November 1: Early Action Priority Deadline
  • December 1: Early Action Deadline
  • March 15: Priority Admission Deadline
  • After March 15: Applications considered on a rolling basis

Spring admission

  • December 1: Priority Admission Deadline
  • After December 1: Applications considered on a rolling basis

Early Action Scholarship

Apply by December 1 to be considered for Dean’s $2,000 Early Action Scholarship. No separate scholarship application is required.

Financial Aid

To be considered for the greatest range of financial aid opportunities, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  

Have You Applied to or Attended Dean Before?

If you previously applied to Dean but did not enroll, do not submit a new application. Complete the Reactivation Form.

If you previously attended Dean and want to return, contact the Registrar’s Office at registrar@dean.edu