Acceptance rate of Bowdoin College
A private liberal arts college, Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, Maine. Ranked #25 by Forbes magazine, Bowdoin is well regarded for its rigorous academics, close-knit student community, and commitment to the Common Good. Founded in 1794, Bowdoin existed even before Maine became a state! It’s considered one of the “little Ivys,” with an acceptance rate of just under nine percent! The picturesque campus of Bowdoin College provides students with an intellectually stimulating environment where they can explore diverse academic disciplines. This was a place where students grow and learn and are around people who are passionate about learning. Notable alumni from Bowdoin include:
Nathaniel Hawthorne—renowned American novelist and short story writer
Franklin Pierce—14th President of the United States
Reed Hastings—Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Netflix
DeRay Mckesson—Civil rights activist and educator
Joan Benoit Samuelson—Olympic marathon champion
What You Need to Know About Bowdoin College | Ivy Central
Changing Trends
Bowdoin College has a highly selective admissions process. Its acceptance rate has been rapidly declining over recent years. For instance, for the Class of 2028, Bowdoin received over 10,500 applications but admitted approximately 800 students. Likewise, for the Class of 2027, Bowdoin had 9,300 applications and admitted approximately 800 students, resulting in an 8.6% acceptance rate. Going back to the Class of 2026, Bowdoin received 9,446 applications and admitted 843 students. This shows an 8.9% acceptance rate. The number of applications is surely on the rise year after year. But since the school is a small liberal arts college in order to maintain the student-faculty ratio of 8:1, the number of students they accept is surely less.
If you want to gain admission to the college, it would be best to apply in the early rounds, preferably the Early decision. While there is no guarantee with a good profile and strong academic records, your chances can surely improve. Hence, it would be a matter of making a strategic decision. Here again, our recommendation would be to be a hundred percent sure about the college before signing the commitment letter, which is irreversible.
Geographical Diversity
Students at Bowdoin come from all 50 U.S. states and over 40 different countries, emphasizing its global reach. Students from 35 countries are represented at this school, with the majority of the international students coming from China, India Canada, and South Korea.
Standardized Testing Policy
Nearly fifty years ago, Bowdoin College eliminated the requirement of standardized testing. As per their website, 54% of students in the recent incoming class chose not to submit their scores. This policy empowers the students to decide if these tests in any way accurately reflect their academic prowess. The college will superscore; hence, students who choose to submit standardized test scores will have their highest scores considered if they have taken the SAT or ACT multiple times.
With colleges becoming extremely selective, students have to present a well-rounded and compelling application. What students do outside of their class to demonstrate community sensitivity through service, love for learning, and undertaking leadership roles helps the admissions committee review the application holistically.
Test Optional Policy | Bowdoin College
Conclusion
Bowdoin College’s mission is to ensure that nothing stands between a student from gaining a world-class education. To fulfill this promise, the college offers need-blind. Hence, it is the student who is at the core of their admission policy and not the family income. Bowdoin is one of only eight colleges and universities that is need-blind. “All of Bowdoin’s student aid packages consist of grants and need-based scholarships that never need to be repaid.” This is a major reason why the university has a low acceptance rate. Costs and Aid | Bowdoin College
As acceptance rates decline, it becomes increasingly important for applicants to craft strong, unique applications that align with Bowdoin’s values. If you’re aiming to secure a spot at Bowdoin, careful planning and expert guidance can make a difference. Ivy Central can help you navigate the admissions process, ensuring you highlight your strengths effectively. Contact us today to start your journey to Bowdoin!
