What makes Bates different
- Test-optional since 1984. Bates was an early leader of the test-optional movement.
- Research for most. Most students complete research or a senior thesis.
- Open since 1855. New England's first coeducational college, it has long admitted students of every background.
What Bates students study
The most common bachelor's degrees (class of 2024): econometrics and quantitative economics (62), psychology (46), political science (43), biology (37), environmental studies (37) and neuroscience (28). Source: IPEDS Completions, first majors only.
You may thrive at Bates if…
- You want a warm, unpretentious community.
- You'd like to do research or a thesis.
- You enjoy the outdoors and a real city nearby.
Worth asking about
- What does the senior thesis involve in my major?
- How do students connect with the Lewiston community?
How Bates compares with other liberal arts colleges
Bates admitted 13.3% of applicants for fall 2024 and is one of seven NESCAC colleges in this group. See how these 20 liberal arts colleges compare.
FAQ
What is Bates College's acceptance rate? 13.3% for fall 2024: 1,336 of 10,027 applicants were admitted.
Does Bates have early decision? Yes. Bates offers binding early decision in two rounds: Early Decision I (November 15) and Early Decision II (January 10). Source
Does Bates require the SAT or ACT? No. The SAT and ACT are optional for all Bates applicants, a policy the faculty adopted in 1984. This applies to students applying in 2026–27 for fall 2027. Source
Does Bates charge out-of-state tuition? No. Bates is private, so published tuition and fees are the same for students from any state: $66,590 a year before aid. About 81% of first-year students came from outside Maine.
How much is Bates tuition per semester? About $33,295 a semester, half the published $66,590 a year, before aid.
How many students go to Bates? About 1,800 undergraduates (fall 2024).
What is Bates known for? Its early test-optional policy, senior theses and Maine setting.
How much does Bates cost? Published tuition and fees are $66,590 a year before aid, and the total cost of attendance is $83,532. Students who received aid paid $29,341 a year on average.
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