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Bates College

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Bates College campus
At Bates, you will find a community of irrepressibly enthusiastic, unapologetically smart, and boldly individual people, who happen to think that finding the truth sometimes requires a leap into a frigid pond. We're known for our 100 clubs and organizations, nationally recognized centers for career development and community engaged work, a focus on sustainability, and a deep commitment to living up to our mission.

Yes, we're a small liberal arts college nestled in a bucolic setting, and yes, we have small class sizes, but trust us - we're not like the rest. We invite you to begin your exploration of Bates College, an original from the start.
Accepts first-year applicationsNew EnglandPrivateSuburbanSmall (2,000 and under)Co-Ed
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Academic programs

  • Design
  • Engineering
  • Research
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Education
  • Music
  • Art & Design
  • Economics
  • Government/Political Science
  • Performing Arts
  • Social Science
  • Visual Arts
  • Computer Science

Student experience

  • Athletics
  • Co-op/Internship Opportunities
  • Disability Services
  • Intramural/Club Sports
  • LGBTQIA Services
  • On-Campus Housing
  • Study Abroad
  • Undergraduate Research

Application information

First-year

We’re interested in students who work hard, are curious about the world beyond them, take intellectual risks, believe that education is not confined to a classroom, and get deeply involved in their community. Bates offers two rounds of a binding Early Decision and Regular Decision. Since 1984, Bates has not required that applicants submit SAT, SAT Subject Tests, or ACT scores to be considered for admission to the college. Bates meets 100 percent of students’ financial need and works closely with families to ensure that graduates have the lowest possible student loan debt — less than half the national average.

Transfer

We’re interested in students who work hard, are curious about the world beyond them, take intellectual risks, believe that education is not confined to a classroom, and get deeply involved in their community. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply. We welcome applications from students who have attended or are attending other institutions, including international students enrolled overseas. Transfer students are eligible for need-based financial aid and are guaranteed on-campus housing.

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Additional information

  • Bates meets 100 percent of students’ financial need through a combination of grant aid, loans, and student employment. Bates works closely with families to ensure that graduates have the lowest possible student loan debt — a dollar total that’s less than half the national average. More information on Financial Aid can be found here. 

  • Since 1984, Bates has been a leader in the test-optional movement. We do not require SAT, SAT Subject Tests, or ACT scores for applicants to be considered for admission. For applicants who would like standardized testing to be considered, Bates will super-score. Additionally, the college accepts self-reported test scores; all scores will be verified upon enrollment and discrepancies may jeopardize your admission.  

  • Having always stood firmly for the ideals of intellectual curiosity and egalitarianism, Bates supports applications from all students interested in the college, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. Undocumented and DACA students should follow the same application process as those of domestic applicants, and are welcome to safely share relevant narratives unique to their circumstances.

Visit us

Bates is a community known for opening doors - you'll find that we're eager to meet you. There are a variety of ways to connect: We  look forward to connecting with you!

I love a place that does what is right, rather than what is expected.