Bowdoin College

Overview

Bowdoin College, founded in 1794, is a private liberal arts college located in Brunswick, Maine, about 25 miles north of Portland. Notable for its rigorous academics, Bowdoin offers a diverse array of undergraduate majors with particular strengths in Government and Legal Studies, Environmental Science, and Economics, attracting students who seek an intimate educational setting; the college maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio. The historic campus is recognized for its distinctive Federalist architecture, and it encompasses a picturesque 207-acre main area with a supportive residential life, as nearly all students live on campus in a variety of housing options. Bowdoin's admissions process is highly selective, seeking students who demonstrate strong academic potential and a breadth of interests. While not primarily known for its athletic programs, the college competes in the NCAA Division III as the Bowdoin Polar Bears and has earned recognition for its competitive women's field hockey team.

In the most recent statistical year 9,376 prospective students applied, and 862 were granted admission.  Of those admitted 508 enrolled in the school.  1,909 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 6 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $60,952 plus fees of $576. Bowdoin College is ranked 25 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.