Overview
Bates College is a highly selective private four-year institution in Lewiston, Maine. The school accepts 13.7% of applicants and enrolls 1,753 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 13.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,470
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,420–1,520
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 1,753
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Bates created the test-optional movement in 1969 and remains committed to evaluating you without standardized test scores. Your essays carry enormous weight here, particularly the supplemental questions about intellectual engagement and community contribution. Write about specific moments when you questioned assumptions or changed your mind about something important.
The college operates on a 4-4-1 calendar with Short Term in May, where students pursue intensive single courses, internships, or independent research projects. Reference specific Short Term offerings in your application to show you understand what makes Bates different from traditional semester schools. Past projects have included studying permaculture in Costa Rica, analyzing political campaigns in New Hampshire, and creating original theater pieces.
Bates has no Greek life, no merit scholarships, and no distribution requirements beyond a writing-intensive course and quantitative literacy. This creates a culture where your academic interests drive your course selection entirely. Don't write about wanting a "well-rounded liberal arts education" because that misses the point of their open curriculum.
The Purposeful Work initiative connects every student with career exploration through funding for unpaid internships and research. Mention how you plan to use this program specifically rather than writing generally about career services. The college also guarantees housing for all four years, which shapes campus life differently than schools where upperclassmen scatter off-campus.
Your interview matters significantly here, whether conducted by admissions staff or alumni. Prepare to discuss books you've read recently and questions you're genuinely curious about. Bates interviewers expect substantive conversations about ideas, not rehearsed talking points about your resume.
Don't assume applying Early Decision gives you a major advantage. Bates fills about half its class through ED, but the admissions committee maintains the same standards year-round. Apply early only if Bates is genuinely your first choice, not as a strategic move to boost your chances elsewhere.
The Harward Center for Community Partnerships embeds community engagement throughout academics rather than treating service as an extracurricular add-on. Reference specific Lewiston organizations or community issues you'd want to address through coursework or research.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $30,703/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $63,478
- Students Receiving Aid
- 10%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 90.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $69,498/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 94.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bates College test-optional?
Yes, Bates College is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. The college was one of the first selective schools to adopt this policy in 1984.
Does Bates College offer early decision or early action?
Bates offers Early Decision I (November 15 deadline) and Early Decision II (January 1 deadline). Both are binding agreements, meaning you must attend if accepted.
What GPA do you need to get into Bates College?
Bates does not publish minimum GPA requirements. Most admitted students have strong academic records with challenging coursework, but the college reviews applications without using a GPA cutoff.
Can you transfer to Bates College as a sophomore or junior?
Yes, Bates accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must have completed at least one year of college coursework at another institution.