My S has had his list of schools
for several months. At the last minute he has discovered Bates through some research. It is a school that no one
from his high school has ever applied
to so not on his radar at all. He has visited many LACS and really liked them all - but they are all in state. He really has to get moving if he wants to apply, but he is wondering if not visiting and doing an interview will make applying a waste of time. He said per the website it is too late the schedule an interview. He is ranked
In the top 5% of his class.
Thanks for any input.
My S visited as a HS junior but was not able to schedule an interview later on (we liive in the South). He was accepted and graduated in '17. He did have a legacy connection–but students from his school rarely apply there (and he did request financial aid). I would say go for it. If he puts some effort into explaining why he wants to attend, it could make the difference.
I agree with the above. He can add some information in the additional info section. Bates no longer has the supplemental essay, so it’s a little harder to explain. I suggest he also talks immediately with his guidance counselor and asks the GC to add a little note to his rec, mentioning your son’s interest. And, it can’t hurt to have your son contact his regional rep for Bates and ask this very question. Anything that shows interest at Bates is a very good thing. They care about interest.
Thanks for the feedback!
Bates was also a last minute add to my daughter’s list. She had never visited and did not do an interview. No one where we live has ever heard of Bates. She is now in her Junior year at Bates and we are very pleased. If he has the grades give it a shot! You never know how things will turn out.
Apply, but if accepted, as with any LAC, it is very important to visit before committing to attend.
My D has applied RD to Bates from OOS and was unable to visit. She requested an interview and offered to have skype interview but they replied there no alumni in our area. I hear that schools can’t hold it again you if you request an interview and they can’t accommodate. Yet she interviews well so I really wish they could have this added dimension to her application beyond her stats and essays.
@Aussiemom , I suggest your daughter email the regional rep (google it for your area) and let him/her know what you have said here. They like interest, and I don’t think it will hurt.
@Lindagaf ok, thanks I will!
Not you, your daughter, @Aussiemom . 
@Lindagaf I meant yes I will pass it on to her (which I did) lol! She’ emailed them and is awaiting a response…crossing fingers!
Hopefully the regional rep will reply. We have experienced that the Bates regional rep is not responsive to to emails from prospective students and guidance counselors. Must have met their admissions quota for the region they cover?
What region are you from, @Dreamer2?
D19’s AO (illinois) was very responsive to email contact. D19 did not end up applying.
can u chance me?
1440 sat/ 750 sat 2 physics / 780 math1and2 / 3.75 GPA / 110 TOEFL
RI/Southeastern MA