Bates College

For the 2025-26 academic year, Bates' comprehensive fee, covering tuition, room, board, and associated fees, is approximately $89,930. Bates is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA status students, undocumented students, or who graduate from a high school within the U.S., and admitted international students. The college does not offer merit or athletic scholarships.

Bates College has a selective admission policy, with an acceptance rate of around 15%. As one of the leaders of the test-optional movement, the university does not require SAT or ACT scores. The college employs a holistic review process, considering the whole picture of who you are, not just your test scores.

Bates College offers a rigorous liberal arts education grounded in critical thinking, writing, global awareness, and community engagement. The college utilizes a holistic, interdisciplinary approach to learning, with small class sizes averaging 15 students and a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Students are challenged to express their opinions, try something new, and stand up for a cause.

Bates College emphasizes 'purposeful work,' encouraging students to pursue careers aligned with their values and strengths. Graduates benefit from strong alumni connections and employer partnerships across various industries. Within six months of graduation, 95-98% of Bates graduates are employed, in graduate school, or engaged in research/fellowships.

Bates College is known for its tight-knit community, where students, professors, and faculty members genuinely support each other. With over 100 student-run clubs and organizations, including cultural, performance, and environmental groups, there are many opportunities to get involved. The college has no Greek life, promoting an inclusive and collaborative campus culture.

Bates College is located in Lewiston, Maine, which is considered the second-safest state in the U.S. The college provides 24-hour security patrol, campus emergency phones, and a mobile campus emergency alert system. Bates College has a close relationship with the Lewiston Police Department to ensure campus safety.

Bates College offers an Honors Program that includes a tutorial-based thesis modeled after the universities of Oxford and Cambridge. After three complete years at Bates, each student participates in a senior thesis or capstone that demonstrates expertise and overall knowledge of their major. The Senior Thesis is an intensive program that begins with the skills taught in the first-year program and concludes with a compiled research thesis.

International students comprise approximately 8-10% of the student body at Bates College. The college promotes global diversity and cultural exchange across campus. Bates is need-aware for international students, and all admitted international applicants who apply for aid are eligible for grant-based financial assistance.