Bates / How to get in
How to Get Into Bates
Around 15 percent for the Class of 2029, from roughly 9,960 applications for an enrolled class of 496. Bates is highly selective and has been test-optional for three decades, so the written application carries real weight. Here is the academic profile that keeps you in the running, what Bates weighs most, and where to put your energy.
- 3.8-4.0
- GPA (middle 50%)
- 1430-1510
- SAT (middle 50%)
Every college publishes how heavily it weighs each part of your application in its Common Data Set. Here is how Bates reads applicants, most important first.
- Course rigor
- Grades (GPA)
- The application essay
- Character and personal qualities
- Recommendation letters
- Extracurricular activities
- Talent or ability
- Demonstrated interest
- Class rank
- Test scores
- First-generation status
- Legacy relation
- Geographic origin
Bates is test-optional, so you can apply without SAT or ACT scores, though a strong score can still help.
Early Decision I November 15 · Early Decision II January 10 · Regular Decision January 10 · ED I notification By December 20 · RD notification By April 1. Applying early (Early Action or Early Decision, where offered) can modestly improve your odds and signals commitment.
Your grades and course rigor are mostly set by now. The highest-leverage things left are your essays and how you frame your activities. Bates reads holistically, so a specific, well-told essay is where you separate yourself from other qualified applicants.
How to get into Bates: FAQ
Is Bates hard to get into?
Around 15 percent for the Class of 2029, from roughly 9,960 applications for an enrolled class of 496. Bates is highly selective and has been test-optional for three decades, so the written application carries real weight. At Bates, applicants clear a high academic bar first, then stand out through essays, activities, and character.
What GPA do you need to get into Bates?
Admitted students at Bates typically have a GPA around 3.8-4.0 (middle 50 percent). A strong GPA in demanding courses is the foundation, though it never guarantees admission.
What SAT score do you need for Bates?
The middle 50 percent of admitted students at Bates score about 1430-1510 on the SAT. Scores in or above that range keep you competitive.
What does Bates look for in applicants?
Bates weighs course rigor, grades (gpa), the application essay, and character and personal qualities most heavily, alongside a strong academic record. The parts you most control late in the process are your essays and how you present your activities.
See your real chances at Bates and every school.
Build my college list