Information Especially for... International & Overseas Students

Application procedures for Bates, as well as other American colleges, are quite different from those in many other countries. If you are unfamiliar with the terminology or basic procedures, you might try these Web sites for background:

Here' s what you' ll need to apply to Bates:

1. The application. Bates uses the Common Application and a supplement. Included in the Common Application are two teacher evaluations, the school report (including a counselor evaluation), a personal statement, as well as biographical data and information concerning extracurricular interests. The Bates Supplement form requires an essay, information concerning standardized testing preferences, and a mid-year report. Additional writing samples or other evidence of creative ability are encouraged. You can find the application, along with a detailed description of procedures, on this site. You may also request a printed version. Application deadlines vary based on your preferences.

2. Standardized test scores. The submission of standardized testing, such as the SAT I, SAT II, and the ACT, is optional for all students. Students who speak English as a second language are required to submit their scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or a similar test. This includes non-native English speakers who attend English-medium schools or live in the U.S. Bates does not offer courses for intensive English or English as a second language. While we have no minimum for the TOEFL score, the average score of the international students at Bates is 637 on the paper-based scale, and 270 on the computer-based scale.

Score reports must be sent directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) or the College Board  and should be received no later than the appropriate application deadline. The institutional code for Bates is 3076. Photocopies will not be accepted; students who submit unofficial copies of test results may place themselves at a disadvantage in the application evaluation process.

You may be interested in our policy on Advanced Standing.

3. For non-U.S. citizens, the Bates Financial Statement for International Students. This is required whether or not you plan to apply for financial assistance. A downloadable form of the financial statement is available on the application page. Or, you may receive a copy as part of the printed application by filling out this form; be sure to use the comment box to request the financial statement form specifically. This form must be submitted with the admissions application by the appropriate deadline

NOTE: Students who are not citizens of the United States are not required to submit an application fee or fee waiver request.

U.S. Citizens should submit an application fee of $60 or a fee waiver request.  Fee waiver requests should be written by a school official (e.g., guidance counselor, headmaster, etc.)

We welcome any supplemental information that would help us to learn more about you as an individual. All applicants may enclose writing samples, information about extracurricular activities, additional recommendations, etc. Applicants who are currently working should provide employer recommendations and an essay detailing current activity.