Coalition Colleges
Bowdoin is a Coalition Member College, which means they have completed a vigorous vetting process from the Coalition for College to ensure that they “provide substantial support to lower-income, under-resourced and/or first-generation students; offer responsible student financial aid; and demonstrate a commitment to student graduation.” That also means you can apply to Bowdoin via the Coalition Application. The Coalition Application makes it easy to obtain application fee waivers if you qualify. It’s also a great way to discover other colleges that have demonstrated a strong commitment to affordability and strong student outcomes.
Does Bowdoin have a supplemental essay?
Yes, applicants to Bowdoin College will have to write a supplemental essay in order to complete their application. Luckily, we have a guide to help you through that essay prompt and stand out in the application process.
Bowdoin Supplemental Essay Guide
Is Bowdoin test-optional?
Bowdoin College is test-blind, which means that it does not allow applicants to submit their SAT or ACT scores. That means that they won’t consider these scores from any applicant. Decisions are based more heavily on grades, extracurricular activities, essays, interviews, and other factors.
Can students submit their SAT or ACT Superscore to Bowdoin?
Yes, applicants can submit their SAT or ACT Superscore when they apply to Bowdoin College. You should be able to find your superscore for either test on your student portal. Keep in mind that some colleges only allow Superscores for one of the two tests, so be sure to check their website for exact details on the Superscore policy.
Regular Decision
Early Decision I
Early Decision II
What is the application deadline at Bowdoin?
Students must apply by January 5 to enroll at Bowdoin during the fall semester. Remember that college applications involve many pieces, including essays, a transcript, letters of recommendation, and more. Be sure to start your application as soon as you can to make sure you have enough time to make it as compelling as possible.
At Bowdoin students also have the opportunity to apply Early Decision. In order to take advantage of this option, you’ll have to have your application in by November 15.
You can also choose to apply Early Decision II, with a later deadline of January 5.
Should I apply Regular or Early Decision to Bowdoin?
Applying to Bowdoin with Early Decision can be a great decision if you are 100% sure you want to go there. You’ll find out your admissions decision earlier than other students, and some data shows that you may help your admissions chances. However, you should keep in mind that Early Decision is binding. If you do get into the school, you won’t be able to change your mind later. If there is any doubt in your mind, you should apply Early Action or Regular Decision instead.
Read more: All you need to know about Early Action vs Early Decision
Join for exclusive scholarships, personalized matching, and application tracking. 0% Spam, 100% Free.
Is Bowdoin College need-blind?
Yes, Bowdoin College has need-blind admissions, which means they do not take financial need into account when they decide who to accept. If your FAFSA and/or CSS Profile indicate that you would need substantial financial aid, you will still be on equal footing with applicants who do not require any aid at all.