About Colby College
The sticker price hits $84,570 annually, but Colby's need-blind admissions makes it surprisingly affordable for most families. Students from households earning under $30,000 pay just $6,072 after aid, while the average net price across all income levels is $23,939. Graduates earn a median of $80,490 ten years out, carrying typical debt of only $19,157. The monthly loan payment of $203 represents a manageable burden given earning potential.
The Four-One-Four calendar system gives students an intensive January term for research or internships. With 693 student athletes competing in 30 Division III sports, Colby maintains strong athletic traditions alongside academic excellence. The 90.20% six-year graduation rate reflects the college's ability to support students through to completion in Maine's remote but nurturing environment.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 9:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 94.6%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 89.2%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 90.2%
- Retention Rate
- 90.6%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $80,490
- Carnegie Classification
- Liberal Arts College
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Economics. | Bachelor | $57,995 |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $47,118 |
| Anthropology. | Bachelor | $44,971 |
| International/Global Studies. | Bachelor | $42,682 |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Bachelor | $41,193 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $38,289 |
| Area Studies. | Bachelor | $33,993 |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $30,771 |
Campus Life
Weekends revolve around outdoor adventures and campus traditions. Students hit nearby ski slopes, hike through Maine's forests, or gather around the outdoor fire pit near the library. The Outing Club is massive, this is a school where students genuinely love being outside regardless of weather. Colby's "Loudness" tradition has first-years compete in ridiculous contests during orientation week. The dining halls serve locally-sourced food, and many students develop strong opinions about which residence hall has the best common room for late-night study sessions. Social life centers on residence halls and campus events rather than Greek life.
- Setting
- Town-Remote
- Housing Capacity
- 2,260 beds
- Calendar System
- Four-One-Four
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1813
Campus Safety (2023)
36 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rape | 9 | 9 | 0 | 0 |
| Dating Violence | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Fondling | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Stalking | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 7°–28°F
- July Avg
- 58°–79°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 42.8"
- Annual Snowfall
- 64.3"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 48.9%
- Women
- 51.1%
- White
- 53.6%
- Black
- 5.4%
- Hispanic
- 8.3%
- Asian
- 10.7%
- In-State Students
- 6.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 13.2%
Location
- Address
- Waterville, Maine 04901-8840
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $80,490
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $70,828
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $50,200
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 87.2%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $203/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $19,157
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Colby College?
Colby College accepts just 7.61% of applicants, making it one of Maine's most selective institutions. The college attracts high-achieving students with an average SAT score of 1485. This selectivity reflects Colby's reputation as a top-tier liberal arts college in New England.
How much does Colby College cost after financial aid?
While Colby's sticker price reaches $84,570 annually, the average net price drops to $23,939 thanks to generous financial aid. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay just $6,072 per year. The college practices need-blind admissions and meets full demonstrated need for all admitted students.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Colby College?
Colby maintains a 9:1 student-faculty ratio with just 2,282 students total. This intimate setting allows for close mentorship and research opportunities with professors. The college follows a unique Four-One-Four calendar system that includes an intensive January term for special projects or study abroad.
What do Colby College graduates earn after graduation?
Colby graduates earn a median salary of $80,490 ten years after graduation, reflecting strong career outcomes. The college boasts a 96.3% employment rate and 90.20% six-year graduation rate. Alumni include Pulitzer Prize winner Annie Proulx and actor Elijah Wood, demonstrating success across diverse fields.
Where is Colby College located and what is campus life like?
Colby sits in rural Waterville, Maine, with housing capacity for 2,260 students on a close-knit campus. The college fields 30 varsity sports with 693 total athletes competing in NCAA Division III. Students embrace the outdoors and tight community bonds that define Maine's liberal arts culture.
Does Colby College offer athletic scholarships?
Colby College offers $0 in athletic scholarships as a Division III institution that prohibits athletic aid. Instead, the college focuses on need-based financial assistance, with an average institutional grant of $61,714. The Mules compete in the strong New England Small College Athletic Conference alongside schools like Bowdoin and Bates.
