Bates meets the full demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, regardless of citizenship status, for all four years. Although Bates is not need-blind for non-U.S. citizens, the college offers one of the most generous and inclusive financial aid programs in the United States.

International students seeking assistance from Bates must indicate their intent to apply for need-based financial aid on the admission application prior to being admitted to Bates. Requests for need-based financial aid after a student has been admitted to Bates will not be considered. 

Students who qualify can receive financial aid for up to eight semesters, in the form of a grant (that does not need to be repaid) and on-campus employment (up to 20 hours per week during the academic year). Bates does not include loans in the aid awards for non-U.S. citizens.

Non-U.S. citizens* requesting financial aid must submit the International Student Application for Financial Assistance (ISAFA) The ISAFA is used by Bates to determine financial need for the four years the student will be at Bates and is part of an applicant’s admission application. Additional information and application instructions can be found here.

*Financial aid information for citizens of Canada can be found here.

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Resources for International Students

Bates encourages students to seek assistance through sponsors and outside sources. In many countries, it is often possible to find information at U.S. Information Service (USIS) posts or at educational advising centers designated by the U.S. Embassy.

• International Education Financial Aid (IEFA)
• NASFA: Association of International Educators
• Institute of International Education (IIE)
• The SmartStudent Guide to Studying in the USA
• European Collaborative for International Schools