DePauw named “Dream School” by New York Times bestselling author

DePauw University has been recognized as one of 75 "Dream Schools" nationwide in bestselling author Jeffrey Selingo's new book, "Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You" (Scribner, 2025). The book, a follow-up to Selingo's "Who Gets In and Why," focuses on how students can make a better college choice, giving families permission to think more broadly about what signals a "good" college and then the tools to discover their dream school. The book highlights institutions that deliver strong outcomes, accessible admissions and dynamic student experiences.

Selingo emphasized several defining factors in selecting DePauw for his list, including the university's transformative $200-million gift in 2024; its bold three-school framework that brings together the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Leadership and the Creative School; and its hallmark curriculum, such as its discussion-based first-year seminars. He also pointed to DePauw's strong graduation rates, robust internship opportunities and commitment to affordability through scholarships and financial aid.

DePauw's commitment to affordability was given a further boost with the recent announcement of The DePauw Promise, the university's commitment to meeting 100 percent of the calculated financial need for every incoming student, starting with the incoming class in Fall 2026.

The attributes cited by Selingo translate into measurable student success. More than 90 percent of DePauw students complete at least one internship or off-campus study experience before graduation, preparing them with the skills, networks and confidence to thrive after college. Recent graduates have gone on to work for companies and organizations including Eli Lilly, Deloitte and Teach for America, while others have pursued graduate study at leading institutions including Harvard, Northwestern and Oxford.

"Jeffrey Selingo's recognition underscores what students and alumni know: DePauw provides a distinctive environment where innovation, access and personal attention shape lives of accomplishment," said Mary Beth Petrie, vice president for enrollment management. "Our graduates leave Greencastle with meaningful experiences, broad perspectives and a powerful launch into their careers."