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Bates College Admission Chances

Quick answer

Bates College in Lewiston, ME admits about 13% of applicants (admitted students score 1420–1530 on the SAT, middle 50%), making it a reach for most applicants, even strong ones for most students. Your real odds depend on your GPA, test scores, and intended major — estimate them free in about 15 seconds below.

Key facts

Acceptance rate
13%
SAT (mid-50%)
1420–1530
Test policy
Test-optional
In-state tuition
$66,590
Out-of-state tuition
$66,590
Avg. net price
$29,351
Undergrads
1,760
Setting
Urban
Location
Lewiston, ME

Is Bates College a reach for you?

Estimated admission chance by applicant profile, from the same engine FalconPrep uses to build your list. Estimates — your real odds depend on your full profile, major, and residency.

ApplicantSAT / GPAVerdictEst. chance
Below average1150 / 3.3Reach0%
Average1300 / 3.6Reach2%
Above average1400 / 3.8Reach7%
Strong1520 / 3.9Reach13%

Should you apply to Bates College?

  • →If your SAT is above 1530 and your GPA is strong (roughly 3.9+), Bates College is a realistic target — apply, and consider an early round if it's your clear first choice.
  • →If your SAT falls within its 1420–1530 middle 50%, treat Bates College as a reach worth taking — balance it with solid target and safety schools.
  • →If your SAT is below 1420, Bates College is a long-shot reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and lead your list with stronger matches.

Weighing fit? Compare Bates College with Georgetown University, Tulane University of Louisiana, Harvey Mudd College.

Calculate your real chances at Bates College

Enter your GPA and scores — get your estimated admission chance plus a full reach / target / safety list. Free, no account.

Calculate my chances →

Or use the free college acceptance calculator for a quick single-school estimate.

Application deadlines at Bates College

Bates College's application deadlines are Early Decision on November 15, Early Decision II on February 1, and Regular Decision on January 10.

Verified against Bates College's admissions site in September 2026. Deadlines change each cycle — confirm before you submit.

Early admission at Bates College

Bates College offers these early-application options. Applying early can boost your odds.

Early DecisionBinding — you must enroll if admitted. Historically the biggest admit-rate boost; use it on your true first choice.
Early Decision IIBinding, later deadline — a second binding shot if your ED school rejects/defers you.

Bates College admissions FAQ

Can I get into Bates College?

Bates College is highly selective — it admits about 13% of applicants — so it's a reach even for strong students. Excellent grades, scores, and a standout application matter most. Admitted students typically score 1420–1530 on the SAT (middle 50%). Calculate your specific odds with the free chances calculator below.

When is the application deadline for Bates College?

Bates College's application deadlines are Early Decision on November 15, Early Decision II on February 1, and Regular Decision on January 10. Verified against Bates College's admissions site in September 2026; deadlines change each cycle, so confirm before you submit.

What are my chances of getting into Bates College?

Your chances of getting into Bates College depend on your GPA, test scores, intended major, and residency. The table above estimates admission chances by applicant profile, and the free calculator gives you a personalized reach / target / safety read in about 15 seconds — no account needed.

Should I apply to Bates College?

Apply to Bates College if your SAT is at or above its 1420–1530 middle-50% range and your GPA is strong — it's a realistic target then. If you're below that range it's a reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and balance it with target and safety schools. Estimate your exact odds with the free calculator below.

Is Bates College a reach school?

Yes — with a roughly 13% acceptance rate, Bates College is a reach for most applicants.

What SAT score do you need for Bates College?

Admitted students at Bates College typically score between 1420 and 1530 on the SAT (the middle 50%). A score above 1530 strengthens your odds.

What is Bates College's acceptance rate?

Bates College accepts approximately 13% of applicants.

Does Bates College offer Early Decision or Early Action?

Bates College offers Early Decision and Early Decision II. Early Decision is binding — apply only if it is your clear first choice, as it historically gives the biggest admission boost. Always confirm deadlines on Bates College's admissions site.

How FalconPrep estimates your chances →

Figures are drawn from public data (U.S. Department of Education / IPEDS and college admissions data) and reviewed regularly. Always confirm current numbers and deadlines on Bates College's official admissions site.