College Comparison
Amherst College vs Bowdoin College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Brunswick, ME
Total Enrollment
1,914
1,881
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
1,881
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
7.1%
Average GPA
3.90
3.93
SAT Range
1490–1580
1470–1550
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$65
Total Applicants
13,743
13,265
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$79,440
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$20,786
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$60,952
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$60,952
Room & Board
$18,390
$18,488
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
55.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$62,872
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$82,735
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $20,786 at Bowdoin College. Amherst College is $2,540 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Bowdoin College, the typical SAT range is 1470-1550. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Bowdoin College has a graduation rate of 94%. Bowdoin College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Bowdoin College has a ratio of 9:1. Amherst College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At Bowdoin College, 55% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,872.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $82,735 for Bowdoin College graduates. Graduates from Bowdoin College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, ME in a town: fringe setting.