In lattice models with quadratic finite-range Hermitian Hamiltonians, the inherently non-Hermitian transfer matrix (TM) governs the band dispersion. The van Hove singularities (VHSs) are special points in the band dispersion where the density of states (DOS) diverge. Considering a lattice chain with hopping of a finite range $n$, we find a direct fundamental connection between VHSs and exceptional points (EPs) of TM, both of arbitrary order. In particular, we show that VHSs are EPs of TM of the same order, thereby connecting two different types of critical points usually studied in widely different branches of physics. Consequently, several properties of band dispersion and VHSs can be analyzed in terms of spectral properties of TM. We further provide a general prescription to generate any order EP of the TM and therefore corresponding VHS. For a given range of hopping $n$, our analysis provides restrictions on allowed orders of EPs of TM. Finally, we exemplify all our results for the case $n=3$. Our results point to an intriguing connection between Hermitian and non-Hermitian systems.

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• Density of states
• Van Hove singularity
• Exceptional points