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College comparison
Bates vs Hamilton
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 |  Hamilton Clinton, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateBates College is more selective | 13% | 14% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1420–1530 | 1450–1550 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 1,760 | 2,030 |
| Avg net price | $29,351 | $28,985 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Hamilton reports higher median earnings | $69,498 | $78,411 |
| Graduation rate | 90% | 91% |
| Median debt | $14,275 | $17,000 |
| Economic mobility | 0.8% | 2.3% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Bates vs Hamilton: how they compare
Two liberal arts colleges with similar costs and selectivity, but distinct outcomes and campus cultures.
By the numbers The data reveals a clear trade-off between economic mobility and earnings potential. Both schools have a nearly identical average net price ($29k) and acceptance rate (Bates 13%, Hamilton 14%). Hamilton edges Bates in median 10-year earnings ($78k vs. $69k) and calculated value (2.7x vs. 2.4x earnings per dollar of net price), and has a dramatically higher economic-mobility rate (230% vs. 76%). Bates shows slightly less volatility in its admit rate (39% vs. 49%) and a marginally stronger DOE financial-health score (3.0 vs. 2.9). Graduation rates are effectively the same (Bates 90%, Hamilton 91%).
Where they overlap Both are highly selective, small liberal arts colleges with a commitment to undergraduate teaching, strong graduation rates, and similar financial costs for families. They offer intimate classroom environments and are known for fostering close student-faculty relationships.
How they differ The campus environments and social structures differ notably. Bates is described as having a universally friendly campus vibe in a city setting. In contrast, qualitative notes suggest Hamilton’s social life can be segmented, with a campus divided into distinct social spheres. Hamilton emphasizes writing and oral communication across its open curriculum, while Bates is noted for strong science programs and a long-standing test-optional policy.
Who each suits Hamilton suits a student seeking strong post-graduate earnings, exceptional economic mobility, and an open curriculum with a pronounced focus on communication skills, who is comfortable in a suburban setting with a more segmented social scene. Bates is the better match for a student who prioritizes a cohesive, friendly campus culture in a city setting, values strong science departments, and may benefit from a highly favorable Early Decision policy.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Bates College or Hamilton College harder to get into?
- Bates College is more selective: Bates College's acceptance rate is approximately 13% and Hamilton College's is approximately 14% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Bates College vs Hamilton College?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1420–1530 at Bates College and 1450–1550 at Hamilton 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.