Colby Acceptance Rate

Colby College, a prestigious liberal arts institution in Waterville, Maine, is known for its highly selective admissions process. For the Class of 2028, Colby reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 7.0%, reflecting its growing competitiveness. This selectivity is driven by a significant increase in the applicant pool over recent years, with more students seeking the personalized education and strong alumni network that Colby offers. The college maintains transparency in its admissions data, often publishing detailed statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, accessible at colby.edu/admission.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 7.0% for the Class of 2028, with around 17,800 applicants and approximately 1,250 admitted students, marking one of the lowest rates in the college’s history.
• Early Decision Rate: Estimated at 30.0%, as Colby typically admits a higher percentage of early decision applicants (binding) compared to regular decision, reflecting a strategic advantage for committed students.
• International Student Rate: Approximately 6.5%, with international applicants facing slightly higher competition due to limited spots and a growing global applicant pool.

Over the past decade, Colby College’s acceptance rate has trended downward, dropping from around 18% in 2015 to the current 7.0%, signaling increased competitiveness. The emphasis on early decision admissions plays a significant role, as a substantial portion of the incoming class is filled through this binding option. Additionally, international student admissions have become more selective due to rising global interest. Compared to peer institutions like Bowdoin and Bates, Colby’s selectivity aligns closely, positioning it among the top liberal arts colleges in the U.S. for academic rigor and desirability. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early and craft strong, personalized applications to stand out in this highly competitive environment.