Chances of Getting Into Bowdoin College
Brunswick, Maine • Private University • #6 National • Founded 1794
Bowdoin Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Bowdoin SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Bowdoin College
Bowdoin College is a highly selective liberal arts college on the coast of Maine, known for test-optional admissions (a pioneer since 1969), outstanding dining (ranked #1 in the nation), and a tight-knit community. Bowdoin produces a remarkable number of leaders in public service.
Top Programs
What Makes Bowdoin Unique
- Test-optional since 1969 — the original test-optional school
- #1 college dining in America (seriously, the food is incredible)
- Coastal Maine location with outdoors culture
- Extremely strong alumni network for a small school
- Notable alumni: Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Joshua Chamberlain
Bowdoin Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Bowdoin Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Bowdoin: Admission Tips
Bowdoin was test-optional before it was cool — don't stress about submitting scores unless they're strong
ED1 and ED2 are both available and give real advantages
Show passion for community — Bowdoin's culture is collaborative
The 'Why Bowdoin' supplement should reference specific programs or the Common Good initiative
Demonstrated interest matters here — attend info sessions, connect with admissions
The Brutal Truth About Bowdoin Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 8.7% acceptance rate, Bowdoin rejected over 10,773 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Bowdoin, having a 3.88 GPA and 1475 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. Bowdoin 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 Bowdoin genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 8.7%-acceptance-rate basket.
Bowdoin Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Bowdoin College?
Bowdoin College has an acceptance rate of 8.7% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 11,800+ applicants, approximately 500 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Bowdoin?
The average GPA of admitted students at Bowdoin College is 3.88. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.73, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Bowdoin?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Bowdoin students is 1400-1530. The average SAT score is 1475. For ACT, the range is 32-35 with an average of 34.
Is Bowdoin hard to get into?
Yes, Bowdoin College is highly selective with an acceptance rate of just 8.7%. 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 Bowdoin cost?
Tuition at Bowdoin College is $64,868 per year, with total cost of attendance at $82,500. However, 50% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $55,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Bowdoin?
Your chances of getting into Bowdoin College depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 8.7% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
What Are Your Chances at Bowdoin?
Enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars. Get a personalized, brutally honest assessment of your odds — plus scholarship estimates.
Trusted by 65+ students. AI-powered. Takes 2 minutes.
Popular Majors at Bowdoin
Explore Your Chances by GPA
See which schools match your academic profile based on GPA alone.