<p>Slipper, let me start by saying that I agree with you that Dartmouth is excellent, second only to HYPSM. As far as I am concerned, it comes in the group of universities that automatically proceed them (certainly on par with the likes of Brown, Chicago, Columbia, Cornell, Penn…)</p>
<p>This said, I think it is important to note that comparing Dartmouth to most major research universities is unfair, both to Dartmouth and to the research-intensive university in question. </p>
<p>You state above that Dartnmouth’s operating budget runs in the billions (i.e., over $2 billion). I read somewhere not too long ago that Dartmouth’s operating budget (not including the medical school) was under $1 billion. Not that it matters since Dartmouth is tiny. On the one hand, Dartmouth does not require a hugfe operating budget and on the other hand, one should take economies of scale into account. Do you have a link that shows spending per student? I would not be surprised if Dartmouth were indeed 4th in the Ivy League, but I am curious.</p>
<p>Finally, I think it is important to note that Dartmouth is a niche school, much like Caltech, Chicago and Notre Dame. Only a fraction of the population would find the school appealing. Most students would find the school and its surroundings way too small and remote for their taste. I personally know very few students who would even apply after visiting the school. This may explain why those who do choose to attend love it so much.</p>