Bates College

Bates College reads exactly one piece of writing: the Common App personal statement (250-650 words). There is no "why Bates College" essay and no short answers, so adding it to a list costs zero extra essays; the statement you already have is the entire file here.

That cuts both ways. With no supplement, there is no second chance to show fit or interest in writing, so the one essay has to do all the character work on its own.

Early Decision (November 15, 2026) is binding: an admit commits you to enroll. A second binding round, Early Decision II, closes January 10, 2027. Regular Decision closes January 10, 2027. Applying early means your essay is final about 8 weeks sooner; that is the revision time you trade for an earlier answer.