Bowdoin College

Admission at Bowdoin College

Bowdoin College admits about 9% of applicants, which makes it most selective. Admission is holistic: four years of transcript and course rigor first, then essays and activities, then recommendations and test scores. At this admit rate a strong profile is a reach for everyone; the essays and the activities list are where the decision is made.

GCC applicants: international curricula (IB, American Diploma with APs, A-levels) are read in their own terms. English proficiency tests are usually waived for English-medium schools; check the university's waiver rule. Saudi students on a Ministry scholarship should confirm the programme is on the approved list before applying Early Decision.

Bowdoin College supplemental essays, 2026-27

1. How you learned about Bowdoin140 characters words

   How did you first learn about Bowdoin?

2. The Offer of the College line

   Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin's "The Offer of the College," written in 1906 by Bowdoin President William DeWitt Hyde. Which line from the Offer resonates most with you?

3. The Offer reflection (optional)250 words

   The Offer represents Bowdoin's values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you.

4. Experiences and difference essay (optional)250 words

   If you wish, you may share anything about the unique experiences and perspectives that you would bring with you to the Bowdoin campus and community or an experience you have had that required you to navigate across or through difference.

Every US applicant also writes the Common App personal statement: 650 words, seven prompts. Admitify's coach reads drafts line by line and never writes for the student.

Strong for

Liberal Arts · Politics / IR · Biology / Pre-med