DePauw’s 1,900 curious, compassionate students lead by example and seek connection across differences. They come from nearly every state and dozens of countries to find their Gold Within – and let it shine.
Admission and Aid
Your Path to Success
At DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, we believe that extraordinary talent deserves extraordinary opportunity regardless of financial circumstances. That's why, beginning with the class entering in Fall 2026, we committed to meeting 100% of the calculated financial need for every incoming first-year student through The DePauw Promise. Here, you'll find a top-ranked residential liberal arts education, close faculty mentorship, and a community that sees your potential and invests in your success. This is where you discover your Gold Within.
Admission & Aid at a Glance
- Application Deadlines: Early Decision I (Nov. 1), Early Action (Nov. 1), Early Decision II (Dec. 15), Early Action II (Dec. 15), Regular Decision (Feb. 1)
- Application Fee: $0 (DePauw is committed to removing barriers to higher education)
- Test-Optional: Yes, DePauw has a long-standing test-optional policy.
- Financial Aid: 100% of calculated financial need met for all incoming first-year students (starting Fall 2026)
- Merit Scholarships: Automatically considered upon application; awards range from $20,000 to full tuition
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1, ensuring personalized mentorship from day one
- Proven Outcomes: DePauw graduates rank in the top 7% nationally for long-term earnings
- Recognized Value: Named a "Hidden Gem" by Jeffrey Selingo; featured in Colleges That Change Lives; ranked #9 Most Innovative by U.S. News & World Report
#12
Study Abroad Participation
Open Doors Report
Top 7%
Lifetime Career Earnings
Center on Education and the Workforce
#9
Most Innovative Schools
U.S. News & World Report
100%
Calculated Need Met
Incoming First-Year Students, Fall 2026
Ignite your curiosity
Explore new ideas, new approaches and new perspectives. With our uncommon commitment to the liberal arts, you will delve deeply into your chosen subject while also gaining a broad understanding of the world around you.
The DePauw Promise
At DePauw, we invest in your future with exceptional academics, transformative experiences and unparalleled support. That is why, beginning with the class entering in Fall 2026, we will meet 100 percent of the calculated financial need for every incoming first-year student.
I am in the right place. I'm home.
Bree Mahoney-Sutherland
Plan your visit
Visiting campus is the best way to discover if DePauw is the right fit for you. Wander around campus, talk to students and professors, sit in on classes, and even attend arts, athletics or other events that may catch your interest.
More resources
- Find your admission counselor
- Review admission criteria
- Explore incoming student resources
- Check your application status
- Learn more about DePauw
Frequently Asked Questions about Admission and Aid
Yes. All applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships ranging from $20,000 to full tuition. DePauw also offers competitive premier scholarships, including the Edward G. Rector Scholarship (full tuition), the Vernon E. Jordan Jr. Scholarship for Public Service and Community Leadership, and the Judson and Joyce Green Endowed Music Performance Scholarship.
Yes. DePauw has a long-standing test-optional policy. We believe your high school curriculum, personal character, and leadership are better indicators of your potential for success than a single standardized test.
The DePauw Promise is our commitment to meeting 100% of the calculated financial need for every incoming first-year student, beginning with the class entering in Fall 2026. This ensures that cost will never be a barrier to your DePauw education.
To apply for need-based aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by Feb. 1. International students and some domestic students may also need to complete the CSS Profile. Merit scholarships are awarded automatically upon admission—no separate application required.
Yes. DePauw offers several competitive full-tuition scholarships, including the Edward G. Rector Scholarship and specialized awards for our centers of distinction. All applicants are automatically considered for these premier scholarships.
• Early Decision I: Nov. 1 (binding)
• Early Action: Dec. 1 (non-binding)
• Regular Decision: Feb. 1
• Transfer (Fall): March 1 (priority), rolling thereafter
• Transfer (Spring): Nov. 1
Yes. Through The DePauw Promise, we meet 100% of calculated financial need for all incoming first-year students. Additionally, more than 95% of DePauw students receive some form of financial assistance. Our graduates rank in the top 7% nationally for long-term earnings, ensuring a strong return on your investment.
Visiting campus is the best way to discover if DePauw is the right fit for you. We offer daily tours, shadow-a-student days, and specialized open houses for the Institute of Music and our Honors Programs. Explore your visit options.
