At Bates, you will find a community of irrepressibly enthusiastic, unapologetically smart, and boldly individual people, who happen to think that finding the truth sometimes requires a leap into a frigid pond. We're known for our 100 clubs and organizations, nationally recognized centers for career development and community engaged work, a focus on sustainability, and a deep commitment to living up to our mission.

Yes, we're a small liberal arts college nestled in a bucolic setting, and yes, we have small class sizes, but trust us - we're not like the rest. We invite you to begin your exploration of Bates College, an original from the start

Academic Programs

  • Art & Design
  • Design
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • Government/Political Science
  • Liberal Arts
  • Music
  • Performing Arts
  • Research
  • Science
  • Social Science
  • Technology
  • Visual Arts

Student experience

  • A Capella
  • Affinity Groups
  • Athletics
  • Co-op/Internship Opportunities
  • Community Service
  • Counseling Services
  • Disability Services
  • First Generation to College Program
  • Intramural/Club Sports
  • LGBTQIA Services
  • On-Campus Housing
  • Pre-Health
  • Pre-Law
  • Pre-Med
  • Pre-Vet
  • Religious Groups
  • Study Abroad
  • Undergraduate Research

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

First-year

We’re interested in students who work hard, are curious about the world beyond them, take intellectual risks, believe that education is not confined to a classroom, and get deeply involved in their community. Bates offers two rounds of a binding Early Decision and Regular Decision. Since 1984, Bates has not required that applicants submit SAT, SAT Subject Tests, or ACT scores to be considered for admission to the college. Bates meets 100 percent of students’ financial need and works closely with families to ensure that graduates have the lowest possible student loan debt — less than half the national average.

Transfer

We’re interested in students who work hard, are curious about the world beyond them, take intellectual risks, believe that education is not confined to a classroom, and get deeply involved in their community. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply. We welcome applications from students who have attended or are attending other institutions, including international students enrolled overseas. Transfer students are eligible for need-based financial aid and are guaranteed on-campus housing.

Additional Information

  • Bates meets 100 percent of students’ financial need through a combination of grant aid, loans, and student employment. Bates works closely with families to ensure that graduates have the lowest possible student loan debt — a dollar total that’s less than half the national average. More information on Financial Aid can be found here

Visit us

Bates is a community known for opening doors - you'll find that we're eager to meet you. There are a variety of ways to connect:

I love a place that does what is right, rather than what is expected.

A. Clayton Spencer, Bates College President
School seal

Admissions office

Visit us

Address

23 Campus Ave
Lewiston, ME 04240-6098, United States of America

Phone number

(207) 786-6000

Region

New England

New England