Overview
Bates College is a prestigious private liberal arts college located in Lewiston, Maine. Founded in 1855 by abolitionists, Bates was the first coeducational college in New England and remains committed to academic excellence, social justice, and sustainability. The college operates on a unique "4-4-1" calendar, featuring two semesters and a short May term, which allows students to immerse themselves in a single subject.
Bates is highly ranked among U.S. liberal arts colleges and recognized for its sustainability—96% of its energy is derived from renewable sources. The college offers 21 academic departments and 22 majors, with political science, psychology, economics, English, biology, and history among the most popular.
University Details
| U.S. National Ranking | #24 (National Liberal Arts Colleges) |
|---|---|
| Average GPA | 3.88 |
| Average SAT Score | 1385–1460 |
| Acceptance Rate | 17% (2021) |
Key Features
- Liberal Arts Education: Bates is dedicated to interdisciplinary learning, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
- Small Class Sizes: The low student-to-faculty ratio ensures close faculty-student interaction and a personalized academic experience.
- Community Engagement & Service Learning: The college emphasizes civic responsibility through community service, internships, and experiential learning programs.
- International Focus: Bates offers numerous study-abroad programs and supports global research and cultural exchange.
- Athletics & Outdoor Activities: Bates encourages physical fitness and teamwork through its strong tradition in collegiate sports and outdoor adventures in Maine's beautiful natural surroundings.
Notable Alumni
- Benjamin Mays – Civil rights leader, theologian, and mentor to Martin Luther King Jr.
- Edmund Muskie – Former Maine Governor, U.S. Vice President, and Secretary of State
- John B. Curtis – Prominent American botanist and ecologist
Bates College offers a transformative education rooted in social justice, environmental stewardship, and a tradition of academic excellence—preparing students to lead and serve in a rapidly changing world.
