Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Bowdoin College vs Colby College

Brunswick, ME · Waterville, ME · Source: IPEDS federal database

Bowdoin CollegeColby College
Acceptance Rate8.0%6.8%
In-State Tuition$64,910$66,600
Out-of-State Tuition$64,910$66,600
Average Net Price$9,682$8,937
Graduation Rate96.0%90.0%

GradFax Analysis

Bowdoin College accepts 8.0% of applicants. Colby College accepts 6.8%. Bowdoin College's tuition is $64,910. Colby College's is $66,600. Bowdoin College is cheaper. Bowdoin College graduates 96% of students in 6 years. Colby College graduates 90%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Bowdoin College profileColby College profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Bowdoin College or Colby College?

Colby College. It accepts 6.8% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Bowdoin College or Colby College more affordable?

Bowdoin College has lower published tuition: $64,910 versus $66,600. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Bowdoin College: 96% of students finish in 6 years. Colby College is at 90%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Bowdoin College vs Colby College: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax