Bates College, located in Lewiston, Maine, is a highly selective liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and personalized education. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), Bates reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 13.8%, reflecting its competitive admissions process. This selectivity is influenced by a growing applicant pool, with thousands of students vying for a limited number of spots each year, as well as trends toward increased applications due to test-optional policies and the college’s strong reputation. Bates College provides transparent admission statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, offering prospective students reliable insights into their chances of admission.
Over the past few years, Bates College has seen increasing competitiveness, with acceptance rates declining from around 17% five years ago to the current 13.8%. The rise in Early Decision applications has played a significant role, as the college fills a substantial portion of its class through this binding option, often leaving fewer spots for regular decision applicants. Additionally, international student admissions remain highly competitive due to a growing global applicant pool. Compared to peer institutions like Bowdoin and Colby, Bates maintains a similar level of selectivity within the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC), positioning it as one of the more selective liberal arts colleges in the region. Prospective students are encouraged to explore detailed statistics on the Bates College Admissions website for the most up-to-date information.
