Bowdoin College is preparing to release Early Decision I (ED I) admissions decisions this Friday, December 12, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time, according to an update from Senior Vice President and Dean of Admissions and Student Aid Claudia Marroquin.
Applicants will access their decisions, either admitted, deferred, or denied, through the online application portal.
This year’s ED I pool exceeded 1,100 applications, reflecting a volume and strength comparable to last year.
Key Details for Admitted, Deferred, and Denied Applicants
- Admitted Students: Must submit enrollment reply forms and deposits (or waivers) by January 5, 2026. Financial aid applicants with complete documentation will receive award letters alongside admission notifications. Deposit waivers are automatically available for those in need—no separate request required. Bowdoin meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans for all admitted students.
- Deferred Students: Fewer than one in six ED I applicants were deferred this cycle. They will be reconsidered in the Regular Decision pool. Deferred students may submit updates via their portal (preferably in the new year), and counselors are asked to send mid-year grades. No additional materials are required.
- Denied Applicants: Most decisions will be denials, with no appeals process or option to reapply in another round this cycle.
Upcoming Deadlines and Support for Applicants
Bowdoin reminds prospective students and counselors of flexible policies as the application season continues:
- Virtual Drop-In Sessions: December 14 (12–1 p.m. EST) and December 18 (8–9 p.m. EST) for application questions.
- Early Decision II and Regular Decision Deadline: January 5, 2026. School-based materials (transcripts, recommendations, etc.) may arrive after the deadline with no penalty. Offices will be closed late December to early January, encouraging rest for all involved.
Additional accessibility features include automatic application fee waivers for first-generation students or those applying for aid, and a fully need-blind admissions process for all applicants.
For more information, including FAQs, visit the Bowdoin College Admissions website or contact your regional Bowdoin admissions officer. The college extends thanks to counselors for their guidance and wishes everyone a happy new year.
