Bowdoin vs Colby
How Bowdoin and Colby stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Bowdoin | Colby | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 6.5% | 7% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1420-1560 | 1440-1560 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | ME | ME |
| Sticker price (per year) | $88,820 | $89,190 |
| Average cost after aid | $23,000 | $18,341 |
| Supplemental essays | 2 | 1 |
- Bowdoin is harder to get into than Colby (6.5% versus 7%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Colby is usually the cheaper option ($18,341 versus $23,000 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Bowdoin asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Bowdoin vs Colby FAQ
Is Bowdoin or Colby harder to get into?
Bowdoin is harder to get into, admitting about 6.5% of applicants versus 7% at Colby.
Is Bowdoin or Colby cheaper?
After financial aid, Colby is usually cheaper, about $18,341 per year on average versus $23,000 at Bowdoin.
See your real chances at Bowdoin and Colby.
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