Chances of Getting Into Bates College
Lewiston, Maine • Private University • #18 National • Founded 1855
Bates Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Bates SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Bates College
Bates College is a highly regarded liberal arts college in Lewiston, Maine, known for its test-optional policy (adopted in 1984), thesis requirement, and Short Term (5-week spring term for intensive study). Bates was the first coeducational college in New England and has a progressive, inclusive heritage.
Top Programs
What Makes Bates Unique
- Test-optional since 1984 — pioneer along with Bowdoin
- Required senior thesis for all students
- Short Term (May) — 5-week intensive term for unique courses
- First coeducational college in New England
- NESCAC athletics with strong school spirit
Bates Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Bates Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Bates: Admission Tips
Bates has one of the highest ED rates (~45%) among top LACs
The thesis requirement means Bates values deep intellectual work
Mention Short Term if a specific offering excites you
Test-optional here is genuine — they won't penalize you for not submitting
Community engagement and egalitarian values resonate
The Brutal Truth About Bates Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 13.5% acceptance rate, Bates rejected over 8,650 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Bates, having a 3.8 GPA and 1410 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Bates doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if Bates genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 13.5%-acceptance-rate basket.
Bates Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Bates College?
Bates College has an acceptance rate of 13.5% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 10,000+ applicants, approximately 500 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Bates?
The average GPA of admitted students at Bates College is 3.8. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.65, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Bates?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Bates students is 1340-1480. The average SAT score is 1410. For ACT, the range is 31-33 with an average of 32.
Is Bates hard to get into?
Yes, Bates College is very selective with an acceptance rate of just 13.5%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does Bates cost?
Tuition at Bates College is $64,590 per year, with total cost of attendance at $82,000. However, 47% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $48,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Bates?
Your chances of getting into Bates College depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 13.5% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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