
105 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609-1198, USA


College of the Atlantic is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, an agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that the institution meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education. Prospective students can be assured that the college maintains rigorous academic programs and continuous improvement processes in line with regional expectations for colleges and universities.
Admission to College of the Atlantic requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential or equivalent high school completion. Prospective students must submit their secondary school records and provide recommendations as part of the application. While submission of standardized admission test scores is recommended, it is not mandatory, except for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which is required for applicants for whom English is not a native language.
The college does not operate on an open admission policy and does not accept dual credit or credit for college programs prior to enrollment. However, Advanced Placement (AP) credits are recognized. Computer ownership or leasing is not required for admission. Competencies and other standardized test scores aside from TOEFL are recommended but not compulsory.
Regarding standardized testing trends, approximately 21% of enrolled students submitted SAT scores, while 4% submitted ACT scores. The majority of students who took the ACT scored below 29, with 67% falling below that mark and 33% below 36. The acceptance rate at College of the Atlantic is about 65%, reflecting a moderately selective admission process.
The College of the Atlantic charges an application fee for prospective students submitting their admission materials. However, the institution offers fee waivers to applicants who demonstrate financial need or who participate in certain programs designed to increase access to higher education. These waivers aim to reduce the financial barrier for students from diverse economic backgrounds. Prospective students interested in applying are encouraged to inquire directly with the admissions office about eligibility criteria and the process to request an application fee waiver. This approach provides flexibility and support to those for whom the fee might otherwise be a deterrent.
College of the Atlantic does not have an ROTC branch unit on its campus. Prospective students interested in ROTC programs would need to explore options through nearby institutions that offer such programs or consider alternative pathways for military officer training.
College of the Atlantic welcomes transfer applications for the fall, winter, and spring terms. Prospective transfer students should note that the institution's admission process is moderately difficult, reflecting a selective approach to evaluating applicants. The college accepts transfer credits, including those earned through the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program, facilitating the transition for students coming from military or other non-traditional educational backgrounds. Additionally, the college considers recommendation letters as part of the transfer application, adding a qualitative dimension to the admissions review.
College of the Atlantic offers its students a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to complement its unique interdisciplinary curriculum. Students have access to semester-long and short-term programs that emphasize experiential learning and environmental studies, aligning closely with the college's academic focus. These programs often take place in diverse ecological and cultural settings, providing immersive experiences that enrich students' understanding of global environmental issues.
Additionally, the college encourages independent study projects abroad, allowing students to tailor their international experience to their specific interests and academic goals. Through partnerships with various institutions worldwide, students can engage in research, community work, and field studies that enhance their academic and personal growth.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
4%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
21%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
Data not availableSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring