What is Colby College's acceptance rate?

Colby College's acceptance rate is 7.1%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for Colby College?

Admitted students typically score about 1460–1550 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 32–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Colby College test-optional?

Colby College's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Colby College Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (7.1%)

7.1%

Acceptance rate

1460–1550

SAT (mid 50%)

32–34

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into Colby College?

With a 7.1% acceptance rate, Colby College is extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into. It enrolls roughly 2,412 undergraduates (small town setting) in Waterville, ME. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1460–1550 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 32–34.
GPA: admitted students average around 4.13. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at Colby College's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $69,600 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Environmental Studies · Economics · Global Studies · Biochemistry

See the Common App personal-statement guide

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Colby College admissions FAQ

What is Colby College's acceptance rate?: Colby College's acceptance rate is 7.1%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Colby College?: Admitted students typically score about 1460–1550 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 32–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Colby College test-optional?: Colby College's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Colby College official website
Colby College on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Colby College’s official admissions site.