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College comparison
Bates vs Grinnell
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Bates Lewiston, ME |  Grinnell Grinnell, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateBates College is more selective | 13% | 15% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1420–1530 | 1410–1540 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 1,760 | 1,729 |
| Avg net price | $29,351 | $17,648 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Bates reports higher median earnings | $69,498 | $62,830 |
| Graduation rate | 90% | 88% |
| Median debt | $14,275 | $17,500 |
| Economic mobility | 0.8% | 1.5% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Bates vs Grinnell: how they compare
Both Bates and Grinnell are highly selective liberal arts colleges offering a rigorous, close-knit undergraduate experience, but they present a clear trade-off between financial value and post-graduate earnings.
By the numbers The core quantitative trade-off is clear. Grinnell offers superior financial value: its lower average net price ($18k vs. $29k) generates a higher earnings-per-dollar value multiple (3.6x vs. 2.4x) and an exceptionally high economic mobility rate (146% vs. 76%). Bates graduates report higher median earnings a decade out ($69k vs. $63k). Selectivity is nearly identical, with Bates slightly more selective (13% vs. 15% acceptance) and with a more stable admit rate (39% volatility vs. Grinnell's 86%). Grinnell shows a distinct strength in producing future scholars, with a 12.1 S&E PhD yield. Both schools share strong graduation rates (90% vs. 88%) and perfect DOE financial health scores (3.0/3).
Where they overlap Both colleges are known for their inclusive campus cultures and strong traditions of student engagement. They foster tight-knit, intellectually vibrant communities where students are involved in campus life.
How they differ The divergence is primarily in environment and academic tone. Bates offers a city setting in Maine, providing different social and recreational options. Grinnell is a college town in Iowa, fostering a campus-centric life. Culturally, while both are progressive, Grinnell's political liberalism is often noted as central to its campus identity.
Who each suits Bates suits the student prioritizing higher median early-career earnings, a New England college experience with access to a city, and a slightly more stable admissions profile. Grinnell is the clear choice for maximizing financial return on investment, for students focused on social and economic mobility, and for those who thrive in an intellectual and politically active community, especially with graduate academic ambitions.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Bates College or Grinnell College harder to get into?
- Bates College is more selective: Bates College's acceptance rate is approximately 13% and Grinnell College's is approximately 15% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Bates College vs Grinnell College?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1420–1530 at Bates College and 1410–1540 at Grinnell College. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.