Overview
Colby College is a extremely selective private four-year institution in Waterville, Maine. The school accepts 7.6% of applicants and enrolls 2,282 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 7.6%
- Average SAT
- 1,485
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,430–1,540
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 2,282
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
Colby's admissions committee prioritizes intellectual curiosity expressed through sustained engagement with specific subjects outside your required coursework. They want to see you pursue learning for its own sake, not just grade accumulation.
The Jan Plan distinguishes Colby from similar liberal arts colleges and offers rich essay material. This January term lets students pursue intensive single courses, internships, or research projects. Write about how you'd use this month-long academic freedom to explore something genuinely interesting to you, not what sounds impressive.
Environmental sustainability runs deeper at Colby than at peer schools. The college achieved carbon neutrality and powers itself with renewable energy. If environmental issues matter to you, research their specific initiatives like the Green Roof or biomass plant rather than writing generic environmental essays.
The rural Maine location shapes campus culture more than you might expect. Students create their own entertainment and form tight communities. Don't write about wanting the "small liberal arts college experience" without understanding that Colby sits in an actual small town where campus life becomes your primary social world.
Colby requires demonstrated interest through campus visits or virtual sessions. The admissions office tracks engagement carefully. Schedule an interview if possible and ask specific questions about programs that connect to your academic interests.
Your essays should reference Colby's specific academic programs by name. The Goldfarb Center for Public Affairs connects to government and policy work. The Oak Human Rights fellowship provides post-graduation funding. The Colby Liberal Arts Symposium brings together different disciplines. Generic liberal arts essays won't work here.
Don't assume Colby wants outdoorsy students just because it's in Maine. While outdoor recreation exists, the college attracts academically focused students who happen to enjoy access to hiking and skiing, not the reverse.
Early Decision provides a significant advantage at Colby, but only apply ED if you've visited and can articulate specific reasons for choosing Colby over Williams, Middlebury, or Bowdoin. The admissions committee can distinguish between genuine interest and strategic applications.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $23,939/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $66,600
- Students Receiving Aid
- 13%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 90.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $80,490/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 90.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Colby College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Colby College is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
Does Colby College offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Colby College offers two Early Decision rounds with binding admission commitments. Early Decision I has a November deadline, and Early Decision II has a January deadline.
Can transfer students apply to Colby College?
Colby College accepts transfer applications for fall semester admission only. Transfer students must complete at least two years of coursework at Colby to earn their degree.
What is the application deadline for Colby College?
Regular Decision applications to Colby College are due January 15. The college uses the Common Application for all undergraduate admissions.