Welcome to the Bates community!

We’re thrilled to welcome your student to the Class of 2029 — and to welcome you to the Bates family. Earlier this week, your student received their first official summer communication from the First-Year Experience (FYE) team. This email kicks off a summer of support, guidance, and important next steps as they prepare for life at Bates this fall.

Your student’s email included

• A welcome from the FYE team
• An overview of First-Year Experience and Orientation
• A calendar of key dates
• A preview of Summer Resources — the first major program, opening on June 3

Academic milestones coming up

• June 3: Summer Resources open on Lyceum
• June 17: Course registration materials become available (in Lyceum)
• July 1: Students will be contacted by a course selection consultant
• July 9–23: Course registration period (not first-come, first-served)
• July 23: Course selection closes at 4 p.m. ET

Key dates for the fall

• August 25–28: International Circle Orientation
• August 25–27: Kessler Scholars Orientation
• August 28, 2025: Arrival Day for the Class of 2029
• August 30–September 1: AESOP trips
• September 3: First day of classes
• October 3–4: Back to Bates: Family Weekend

Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)

Students must complete the SHIP Enroll/Waive process by May 31 to avoid automatic enrollment. Questions can be directed to Lisa Farrington, College Health Account Manager, at Lisa.Farrington@crossagency.com.

First-Year Forms

Students must complete all First-Year Forms through the Garnet Gateway by the posted deadlines. These forms are essential for housing, health, AESOP preferences, course planning, and more — and must be filled out by your student.

Staying in the loop

We’ll continue sending updates to families throughout the summer. Every time a major student email goes out, you’ll receive a companion message from us to help you stay informed and involved. We’ll also be hosting welcome events across the country — a great way to meet other Bates families in your area. Details and registration will be shared soon.

Questions? We’re here to help!

You can always reach the Bates Parent Team at parents@bates.edu or by calling (207) 786-6242.

Best from Bates,

The Bates Parent Team

P.S. Do you have a co-parent who didn’t receive this email, but would like to receive future Parent and Family Updates? Or did your co-parent forward this to you? Please help us keep our records up to date by filling out the Parent Contact Update form.