Bates College
Bates College is a private nonprofit university in Lewiston, ME ranked #662 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B, enrolling about 1,760 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 13.3%. Students most often pursue Economics and History.
Day to day, students benefit from a 9:1 student-faculty ratio, 91.3% first-year retention, and 89.7% six-year graduation. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
Families typically invest $29,351, about $12,353 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -49.6%, roughly 134.9 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $59,202. That's about $15,514 higher than national results. It's well-suited to motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Bates College has an acceptance rate of 13.3%, annual tuition of $66,590, average net price of $29,351, and a national rank of #662 (Grade B), with a 89.7% six-year graduation rate, about 1,760 undergraduates, and median earnings of $59,202 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is Bates College Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Bates College graduates 89.7% of students within six years and keeps 91.3% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Bates College's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $66,590 |
| Books and Supplies | $900 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $18,780 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $1,250 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $83,532 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 11.5% of Bates College students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Low-income families pay less than $2,397 annually, while high-income families pay $45,886. Use Bates College's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $19,468/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $45,886/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $59,202
- 10-Year Median Earnings $59,202
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $12,442
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 87.6%
- Employment Rate 37.4%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Bates College graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Bates College vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Bates College's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Bates College's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Bates College graduates earn $59,202 median, the -49.6% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 710-750
- SAT Math 710-780
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 31-34
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,760
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 91.3%
- Graduation Rate 89.7%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 9:1
How to Get Into Bates College
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Bates College requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 13.3%, Bates College is highly selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Bates College's 13.3% acceptance rate makes it highly selective. Strong test scores, GPA, and a well-rounded application are essential. Early application can improve your chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1420 and 1530 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Bates College undergraduates. Political Science and Government, Economics, and Research and Experimental Psychology draw the most students.
- Political Science and Government 13.2%
- Economics 12.3%
- Research and Experimental Psychology 10.1%
- Mathematics 5.6%
- Sociology 5.4%
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research 5.2%
See more majors
- Biology, General 4.7%
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics 4.0%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Economics $108,673
- 2. History $75,175
- 3. Political Science and Government $68,910
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Psychology, General $60,214
- 5. English Language and Literature, General $60,044
- 6. Natural Resources Conservation and Research $56,602
- 7. Research and Experimental Psychology $47,376
- 8. Sociology $42,170
- 9. Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics $40,395
- 10. Biology, General $30,613
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Economics grads earn $108,673—255% more than Biology, General ($30,613). Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Bates College. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degree, 76 graduates)
- Economics (Bachelor's Degree, 71 graduates)
- Research and Experimental Psychology (Bachelor's Degree, 58 graduates)
- Mathematics (Bachelor's Degree, 32 graduates)
- Sociology (Bachelor's Degree, 31 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (31 programs)▼
- Political Science and Government
- Economics
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Biology, General
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Fine and Studio Arts
- History
- Philosophy
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- English Language and Literature, General
- Area Studies
- Physics
- Anthropology
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Chemistry
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Dance
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Music
- Engineering, General
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,760
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 48.2%
- Female Students 51.8%
- Caucasian 60.2%
- Asian 6.6%
- Hispanic 9.7%
- Black 4.5%
- Pell Grant Recipients 11.5%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Bates College's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Bates College's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Bates College support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Bates College, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: About 11.5% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Bates College support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Bates College, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Bates College offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -49.6% ROI. Ranked #662 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $29,351 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $59,202 median earnings. With 89.7% graduating within six years and 91.3% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Bates College's Positioning
With a B grade and #662 ranking, Bates College competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $29,351 annually, Bates College charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 91.3% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $20,546 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -49.6% ROI and $59,202 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $19,351+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Bates College ranks #662 of 6101 institutions, with 1035 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 89.7% six-year graduation rate sits 27.2 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 91.3% first-year retention is 14.5 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -49.6% return on investment is 134.9 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $59,202 run about 36% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $29,351 is roughly $11,954 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 9:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 91.3% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 37.4% employment rate within three years sits 30.8 points below national outcomes.
- Average net price of $29,351 is about $11,954 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 11.5% trails the national share by 27.6 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Lewiston, ME, Bates College operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a B from EDsmart. It holds a #662 national ranking Completion earns A, Support A-, Career Outcomes C, and Affordability C-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 91.3% retention and 89.7% six-year graduation. Return on investment currently measures -49.6% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $29,351 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $83,532.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $54,181 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $12,442 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 11.5% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $59,202 at the median. This is roughly 36% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
Roughly 37.4% of graduates are employed three years out.
The ROI comes in near -49.6%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
13.3% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Bates College admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bates College's acceptance rate?
Bates College's acceptance rate is 13.3%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Bates College cost?
At Bates College, listed tuition and fees are $66,590 per year, and the average net price after aid is $29,351. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Bates College's ranking?
Bates College ranks #662 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Bates College's graduation rate?
At Bates College, the six-year graduation rate is 89.7%, and first-year retention is 91.3%.
What are Bates College's job outcomes?
Graduates of Bates College report median earnings of $59,202 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Bates College's student population?
Bates College enrolls about 1,760 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Lewiston, ME 04240
- Website www.bates.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationNew England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Endowment$428.5M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate7.4%