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Bates College vs Colby College

42 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

14
Bates Wins
5
Tied / N/A
23
Colby Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Town
New England
Region
New England
1,760
Enrollment
2,407
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

13%
Acceptance Rate
7%
1468
SAT Average
1501
N/A
ACT Midpoint
33
1420-1530
SAT Range
1460-1550

Cost & Financial Aid

$66,590
In-State Tuition
$69,600
$66,590
Out-of-State Tuition
$69,600
$29,351
Average Net Price
$17,180
$2,397
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,049
$8,958
Net Price ($30-48K)
$1,251
$11,336
Net Price ($48-75K)
$3,666
$45,886
Net Price ($110K+)
$46,511
12%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
14%
Federal Loan Rate
9%

Academics

90%
Graduation Rate
89%
91%
Retention Rate
94%
95%
Full-Time Faculty
93%
$11,886
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,207
15%
First-Gen Students
11%

Student Body

49%
Female
57%
60%
White
55%
10%
Hispanic
8%
4%
Black
5%
7%
Asian
10%
0.60
Diversity Index
0.66

Outcomes

$59,202
Earnings (6yr)
$60,052
$69,879
Earnings (8yr)
$68,015
$69,498
Earnings (10yr)
$80,490
$14,275
Median Debt
$19,157
0.21x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.24x
75%
Earning Above HS
78%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

75.81%
Mobility Rate
90.38%
4129.3%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6082.8%
183.6%
From Bottom 20%
148.6%
$176,900
Parent Median Income
$208,700

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.83
0.01
Friending Bias
0.00
9.3%
Volunteering Rate
9.9%

The Overviews

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · Private nonprofit

13% accept 90% grad $69,498 earnings $29,351 net

With an enrollment of about 1,760 students and a remarkably low acceptance rate of 13%, Bates College is an excellent choice for those who thrive in a tight-knit academic community. This college appeals to students who are passionate about fields like Social Sciences, Biology, Psychology, and English, among others. The high graduation rate of 90% speaks volumes about the support and resources available to students as they navigate their academic paths.

After graduation, Bates alumni see an impressive average earning of $69,498 within ten years, which highlights the value of a degree from this institution. While the college's Pell Grant rate is at 12%, it's essential to recognize that many students experience upward mobility, even if specific mobility data isn't available. This speaks to the strong foundation that Bates provides for students to build successful careers.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price after aid is approximately $29,351, which is manageable considering the median debt of $14,275. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who are self-motivated and eager to engage with both their peers and faculty. The supportive environment at Bates encourages personal growth and academic achievement, making it a solid investment in one's future.

Colby College

Waterville, ME · Private nonprofit

7% accept 89% grad $80,490 earnings $17,180 net

With an acceptance rate of just 7%, Colby College is tailored for students who thrive in a highly selective environment and are eager to dive into topics like Social Sciences, Psychology, Biology, and Computer Science. It’s a small community of about 2,407 students, making it easier to form close connections with peers and professors alike. Those who choose Colby are often passionate about their fields and want to engage deeply in their studies.

Looking at life after graduation, alumni report impressive earnings, with a 10-year median income of $80,490. This suggests that a Colby education can lead to solid financial outcomes, helping graduates secure well-paying jobs. The affordability factor is also notable; with a net price of $17,180, many students find that they can graduate without being burdened by excessive debt, as the median debt sits at $19,157. This balance helps foster mobility for those who want to move up in their careers.

The numbers tell a clear story: Colby is not just about getting a degree but about setting up students for success in the real world. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating that support is available for those who need it, the overall environment tends to attract highly motivated individuals. Those who thrive here share a commitment to their studies and benefit from both a strong academic foundation and a supportive community.

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