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Bowdoin College

Brunswick, United States • Founded 1794

Updated Jun 2026

Overview

Acronyms: BC
Founded: 1794
Institution Type: College
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Rankings:
SCImago 2026 #4359
Motto: Ut Aquila Versus Coelum
Colours: White and black
Mascot: Polar bear
Around Bowdoin College campus
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Established in 1794, the Bowdoin College is a non-profit private liberal arts higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Brunswick (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Maine.

Officially accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Bowdoin College (BC) is a very small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Bowdoin College (BC) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees in several areas of study.

This 229-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 0-9% making this US higher education organization an extremely selective institution.

International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

BC also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Geographic and contact information for Bowdoin College — useful before scheduling visits or sending enquiries. Each channel below routes to a different team, so pick the one matching your question.

Address: 255 Maine Street
Postal Code: 04011-8448
Phone: +1 (207) 725 3000
Social Media:

Academic Details

Academic statistics for Bowdoin College — including its student body and academic staff numbers. Read these alongside rankings; institution scale changes how rankings should be interpreted.

Recognition: New England Commission of Higher Education
Total Students: 1,873
Academic Staff Range: 200-299
Campus Setting: Suburban
Memberships & Networks
National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Programs Offered

The programmes available at Bowdoin College are organised by level. Most institutions cluster intake decisions by faculty, so application timelines often run in waves through the year.

36 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

How to apply to Bowdoin College

A practical five-step guide to applying to Bowdoin College, from programme research through submission and follow-up.

  1. 1
    Identify the right programme

    Use the programme finder to browse Bowdoin College's 36 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.

  2. 2
    Check entry requirements

    Programme-level requirements at Bowdoin College typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.

  3. 3
    Prepare your application documents

    Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.

  4. 4
    Submit via the institution

    Bowdoin College processes applications through www.bowdoin.edu. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.

  5. 5
    Get in touch with admissions

    Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (207) 725 3000. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bowdoin College

Concise answers to the most-searched questions about Bowdoin College, useful as a quick orientation before exploring the rest of the profile.

When did Bowdoin College open?

Bowdoin College traces its founding to 1794 (approximately 232 years ago).

What city is Bowdoin College in?

Bowdoin College operates from Brunswick, United States.

What is Bowdoin College's control type?

Bowdoin College operates as a private institution.

How big is Bowdoin College's student body?

Bowdoin College serves approximately 1,873 students.

Is Bowdoin College accredited?

Bowdoin College is accredited by New England Commission of Higher Education.

Where can I learn more about Bowdoin College?

Bowdoin College's official website is www.bowdoin.edu.

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Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

These universities are also members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Faculties at nearby universities

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