When Bates opened in 1855, it was New England’s first co-educational college. Since then, we have admitted students regardless of their nationality, race, religion, sex, or socio-economic status. While this openness was at the core of our founding identity and principles, it has been tested throughout time and requires us to constantly reflect upon and recommit to our mission.

At Bates, we value the diversity of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives, and engage in the transformative power of our differences. Our commitment to equity and inclusion is the guiding principle behind Prologue to Bates, a program geared towards students entering their senior year who express interest in being a part of our inclusive and pluralistic community. All seniors who attend school in the U.S. and U.S. territories are welcomed to apply, including students who are historically underrepresented from higher education, such as first-generation-to-college and low-income students.

If you have additional questions about Prologue to Bates, contact the Office of Admission at 207-786-6000 or admissionevents@bates.edu.

Prologue to Bates will be held on-campus this fall from Sunday, October 13 – Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Applications for Prologue to Bates will be available in late April/early May. The deadline to apply will be Friday, August 11, 2023. Applicants will be notified of decisions by mid-September. Thank you for your interest!

Check back in late April/early May when we will share information on application requirements and session details and an update with answers to frequently asked questions.

To ensure you receive updates and information about Prologue to Bates, please complete this inquiry form.