Bowdoin College's Acceptance Results for the Class of 2029
Summary
Bowdoin College admitted 952 students out of a record-setting 14,045 applicants, resulting in a record-low acceptance rate for the Class of 2029. The school's Early Decision acceptance rate offers applicants a statistical advantage, however. Crimson experts breakdown of Bowdoin’s the results and key trends, with insights to help prospective applicants stand out in Bowdoin's admissions process.
Bowdoin College, located in Maine, is a leader among private liberal arts colleges in the US. The school admitted 952 students out of a record-setting 14,045 applicants, resulting in a record-low acceptance rate for the Class of 2029.
Class of 2029 Overview
| Admission Round | Applicants | Admitted | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Decision I & II (EDI & EDII) | ~2,000 | 296 | 14.8% |
| Regular Decision (RD) | 12,045 | 656 | 5.4% |
| Overall | 14,045 | 952 | 6.8% |
Key Trends and Insights
- The total number of applicants increased by about 6% over last year's figure — in addition to jumping 20% the year before last.
- It was a record-setting admissions cycle at Bowdoin, for both the overall number of applicants and the overall acceptance rate, with the acceptance rate dropping from 7% (last year) down to an all-time low of 6.8% this year — pushed down by the rising number of applicants.
- The Early Decision acceptance rate rose slightly, up to 14.8% this year, compared to 13.5% last year.
Broader Admissions Trends:
- A Steep Rise in Interest: Beginning with admission to the Class of 2027, Bowdoin has attracted a rapidly increasing number of applicants, jumping from roughly 10,000 applications to the Class of 2027, to 14,000 in the current admissions cycle, an increase of roughly 40% over just three admissions cycles.
- ED Advantage: Applying ED to Bowdoin can offer a statistical advantage for gaining admission, with the school's combined EDI/EDII acceptance rate hovering between 13–14% this admissions cycle and last.
The admissions landscape at Bowdoin College has grown exceptionally competitive over the past three years, demanding applicants have a disciplined approach focused on high academic achievements and meaningful extracurricular involvement. Applicants should also focus on standing out authentically rather than merely fitting into a perceived mold.
Bowdoin's Regular Decision Acceptance Results
Regular Decision Results: Class of 2029 vs 2028
| Admission Round | Class of 2029 | Class of 2028 | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applications Received | 12,045 | 11,260 | +7% |
| Applications Accepted | 656 | 676 | -3% |
| RD Acceptance Rate | 5.4% | 6% | -10% |
With RD applications to Bowdoin rising 7% — from 11,260 to 12,045 — the admissions landscape grew more competitive. The growing number of RD applicants undoubtedly helped bring the RD acceptance rate down to this year's 5.4% rate, compared to 6% in the last admissions cycle.
Bowdoin's Early Decision Acceptance Results
Early Decision Results: Class of 2029 vs 2028
| Admission Round | Class of 2029 | Class of 2028 | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applications Received (EDI/II combined) | ~2,000 | 2,005 | -0.2% |
| Applications Accepted | 296 | 207 | +43% |
| ED Acceptance Rate | 14.8% | 13.5% | +9.6% |
The number of EDI/II applicants remained virtually unchanged from last year to this year. However, the number of ED applicants admitted increased just over 40%, highlighting a growing ED advantage.
The ED acceptance rate for Bowdoin's Class of 2029 hit 14.8%, even higher than last year's 13.5%. This ED rate also stands out in stark contrast to the school's low 6.8% overall acceptance rate and very low 5.4% RD rate.
- Higher Acceptance Rates: Early Decision applicants typically enjoy higher acceptance rates compared to Regular Decision.
- Demonstrated Interest: Applying early shows Bowdoin College your strong interest in joining their academic community.
Historical Trends
The table below provides a snapshot of Bowdoin College's overall acceptance rates over the past ten years.
Bowdoin College's Overall Acceptance Rate Trends
| Class of | Total Applications | Total Accepted | Total Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2029 | 14,045 | 952 | 6.8% |
| 2028 | 13,265 | 924 | 7% |
| 2027 | 10,966 | 879 | 8% |
| 2026 | 9,376 | 862 | 9.2% |
| 2025 | 9,325 | 822 | 8.8% |
| 2024 | 9,402 | 861 | 9.2% |
| 2023 | 9,332 | 845 | 9.1% |
| 2022 | 9,081 | 932 | 10.3% |
| 2021 | 7,251 | 988 | 13.6% |
| 2020 | 6,799 | 1,009 | 14.8% |
These historical data highlight the sharp rise in overall applications to Bowdoin since the Class of 2027. This trend has led to steady declines in the overall acceptance rate, making the school as competitive as ever, while also making the ED option one that stands out — as it offers applicants a significant statistical advantage in Bowdoin's current admissions landscape.
- Academic Excellence: Maintain top grades and a high GPA.
- Strong Essays: Use your essays to showcase your unique voice and story.
- Leadership and Extracurriculars: Strive to demonstrate meaningful engagement outside the classroom.
- Test Scores: If submitting, aim for high SAT or ACT scores within or above Bowdoin College's reported range.
Final Thoughts
If you're a prospective student thinking about attending a leading liberal arts college like Bowdoin, be sure to check out our full guide What Are the Top Liberal Arts Schools in 2025?
Otherwise, congratulations to all students admitted to Bowdoin's Class of 2029 — your achievement reflects remarkable dedication and excellence. For those considering applying to Bowdoin in the future, the admissions landscape is highly competitive, making strategic preparation essential.
Crimson Education specializes in helping ambitious students navigate this challenging process, with advising for Early Decision and Early Action strategies and offering students tailored guidance to build compelling applications that reflect their authentic strengths and passions.
If you're a student or parent interested in Bowdoin College or other top universities, speak with one of Crimson Education’s admissions advisors today and start charting your path to success.