Bates College is a highly selective liberal arts college in Lewiston, Maine, that pioneered test-optional admissions in 1984. Its required senior thesis, strong economics department, and emphasis on community engagement reflect a rigorous intellectual culture rooted in accessibility and academic achievement.
Mascot: Bobcat
Notable Alumni
Anna Kendrick (Oscar-nominated actress)•Bryant Gumbel (TV journalist)•Edmund Muskie (U.S. Secretary of State)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Athletics
Campus Experience
Bates has never had Greek life in its entire history — the college was founded on egalitarian principles and the inclusive social character is genuine, not a recent branding exercise. The social scene centers on house parties and the Outing Club is king. It's a creative, liberal, flannel-wearing campus where the lack of social hierarchies means you can float between groups, though some find the weekend options limited in a small Maine town.
A New England campus with attractive red-brick and granite buildings centered on a tree-lined quad, well-kept and charming but relatively compact and without a singular dramatic feature.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
Campus Safety provides 24/7 coverage with a student safety shuttle, over 140 blue-light phones, and RAD self-defense training. Most incidents are alcohol-related.
Lewiston is a former mill city with crime rates somewhat above the Maine average. The area immediately around campus is generally safe, but some nearby neighborhoods warrant awareness.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Monday-Friday daily, occasional Saturdays. Year-round scheduling.
Duration: ~60 minutes tour, plus information session
Tours led by current students. Meal tickets provided for Commons lunch at 11am or 1pm. Download the Bates Visit App for campus navigation and a self-guided tour option.
Book a TourThe Bates Visit App provides a self-guided tour with campus navigation. The Historic Quad, Museum of Art, and Lake Andrews area are highlights for independent exploration.
Tour ResourcesSeptember-October for peak Maine fall foliage and full campus life. January-February during Winter Carnival for the quintessential Bates experience. April for admitted student events. Avoid late December and March when campus is between terms.
Free visitor parking at 161 Wood Street (across from Lindholm House). Additional lots behind Bonney Science Center. Portland International Jetport (PWM) is 45 minutes south (40 miles). No public transit to Lewiston -- rent a car or arrange a shuttle. Uber/Lyft available from Portland.
Location
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