Optional Testing

Bates has been a national leader in the test-optional movement for nearly four decades. In October 1984, the faculty voted to make standardized testing, such as the SAT and the ACT, optional for all students applying to Bates.

For the Class of 2026, the middle 50% of those who submitted scores had ranges of:

  • SAT Evidence Based Reading and Writing 710-740
  • SAT Math 650-710
  • ACT Composite 33-34

Bates College does “superscore” both the SAT and ACT, meaning that we will automatically consider your highest section scores from different test dates.

If English is neither the native language nor the primary language of secondary school instruction, then results of an English-proficiency test, the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test, is required.

Learn more about why we are test optional through the Bates-conducted study, Defining Promise: Twenty-five Years of Optional Testing at Bates College, 1984-2009.

Slides of a presentation on this study are also available to view.

Score Reporting

For applicants who would like their testing to be considered, Bates will accept both official and self-reported test scores.

Official test scores can be submitted in any of the following ways:

  • Sent directly from the testing agency (SAT and ACT). Bates’ testing codes are 3076 (SAT) and 1634 (ACT)
  • Sent by the student’s school counselor via email (admission@bates.edu)
  • Sent by the student’s school counselor via official school transcript

Self-reported test scores can be submitted in any of the following ways:

  • Enter scores in the testing section of the Common Application or Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir
  • Submit screenshots or scanned copies of score reports via email (admission@bates.edu)

For applicants who would like their testing to be considered and submitted self-reported scores, please note that official test scores will be required upon enrollment. Official scores may be submitted either from the testing agency or from the school counselor via email, fax, or school transcript. Any discrepancies from self-reported test scores may result in rescinding your offer of admission.