Data and Outcomes
The Dartmouth Dialogues Assessment is a survey of students’ attitudes toward free expression and open inquiry. Designed and led by Associate Professor Sean Westwood, it tracks students' views on dialogue across difference, and helps Dartmouth evaluate the impact of its programs and institutional policies that support free expression.
Survey results show students are increasingly choosing Dartmouth for its commitment to dialogue. Members of the Class of 2030 specifically report a campus climate favorable to free expression, disagreement, and the open exchange of ideas impacted their decision to enroll.
Class of 2030
95%
expect respectful disagreement and engagement with perspectives that challenge their own to be part of their Dartmouth education.
83%
chose Dartmouth for its reputation for welcoming open inquiry.
80%
considered Dartmouth's commitment to dialogue across differences in choosing to attend Dartmouth.
Student Attitudes Through Two Years of Surveys
- At least 90% of students say engaging with challenging perspectives is essential to their education
- Over 80% are confident that they can engage respectfully with differing viewpoints.
- Over 80% think that viewpoint diversity makes the Dartmouth community stronger.
- At least 90% say disagreeing respectfully with a fellow student is a healthy and productive part of the college experience.
Fall 2026 Student Survey
Fall 2025 Student Survey
The only Ivy League university in the top 50
#6 in College Free Speech Rankings
Dartmouth ranks No. 6 in FIRE’s 2027 College Free Speech Rankings, and is the only Ivy League university in the top 50. FIRE, or the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, is a nonpartisan, nonprofit civil rights organization that protects and promotes free speech, academic inquiry, and related constitutional liberties.
Peer Comparison Data
According to Citizens & Scholars—a nonprofit helping colleges build a campus-wide civic culture—Dartmouth students report connecting with people they disagree with at a higher rate than the average American reports connecting with people who share similar beliefs. Dartmouth students also outperform students at other U.S. universities and everyday Americans in believing that it is important to understand others’ beliefs.