The big day is almost here! While we know that student-athletes and some international students will arrive prior to Thursday, Aug. 26, we look forward to seeing many first-year students on campus that day as they start their time at Bates. And, we are eager to meet many incoming families at drop-off so we can welcome you to the Bates community as well.

Your student continues to receive regular updates regarding arrival and orientation; please encourage them to check their Bates email frequently. 

In addition to all your students are hearing about arrival, we have collected some of the most-needed drop-off information for families below so you will have it at your fingertips.

For students arriving prior to August 26, please have your student continue to stay in touch with their coach (for student-athletes) or with International Student & Scholar Services (for international students) for any questions.

Schedule items of note for August 26

For families with students arriving on Thursday, Aug. 26, your student has signed up for their arrival time, which is also their testing time. Please take your student to Merrill/Underhill first and then follow the rest of the day’s schedule. Your student cannot gain access to their residence until they go through the arrival process at Merrill/Underhill.

A grab-and-go lunch will be available from 10-30am-2pm for students and their families/support teams. This is the only dining opportunity we are able to offer guests this year during drop-off.

Note that due to the recently revised campus health protocols, family members/support teams are asked to depart campus at 4pm following the conclusion of the President’s Welcome.

Please double-check campus guest health protocols before you arrive.

Worried about packing?

As drop-off approaches, it’s normal for you and your student to start second-guessing your packing strategy. Res Life has a helpful list, and here are some suggestions for must-haves from returning Bates families: 

• A fan
• Extra floor or desk lamps
• Extension cords
• Foam mattress topper
• A tape measure – handy to measure for throw rugs or wall space upon arrival so you can order the exact right size
• Command hooks for easy wall mounting

Thinking ahead to cold weather? If your student isn’t used to Maine winters, consider a single pair of boots that will work for both rain and snow (Bogs or Blundstones both get the nod from returning parents). Wool socks make a big difference and are light, comfortable, and warm (and not as itchy as you’d think).

Pack light. Nearly every returning family we asked told us their student packed too much, so lean on the side of leaving something out rather than cramming it in. You can always send a care package! Packing for the first 6 weeks also lets your student get settled in and see what they really need.

Quick links

Campus map

Room information

Parking information and permits 

Area dining

Textbook orders 

Bates gear (current protocols mean no in-person guest shopping at drop-off)