Union College and Bowdoin College are both private liberal arts schools with rich histories that go back to the late 18th century. Even though they share New England roots and a focus on undergraduate education, they differ in selectivity and some aspects of campus culture. Bowdoin, located in Brunswick, Maine, is often ranked among the top five liberal arts colleges in the country. Union College in Schenectady, New York, usually ranks within the top 50 liberal arts colleges, recently at #44. This report offers a comparison of the two colleges based on important areas: academics, student life and campus culture, diversity, admissions selectivity, cost and financial aid, faculty credentials, and undergraduate outcomes. The tone remains neutral, showcasing Union’s unique strengths and lesser-known advantages alongside Bowdoin’s established excellence.

Bowdoin College is well-known for its historic campus and strong liberal arts tradition. Both colleges were established in the 1790s and provide close learning environments. However, Bowdoin’s highly selective admissions and coastal location stand in contrast to Union’s more accessible profile and urban campus setting. The sections below will compare each area in detail, using data from sources like U.S. News, IPEDS, College Scorecard, Niche, and official college reports to highlight similarities and differences.
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‍Academic Programs and Academics

‍Majors and Curriculum:Bowdoin and Union have a liberal arts core, but they differ in their program offerings. Bowdoin provides a wide variety of majors in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, but it lacks engineering programs. In contrast, Union College is one of the few liberal arts colleges that offer ABET-accredited engineering degrees. It combines engineering and computer science with the liberal arts. This gives Union an advantage for students looking for a small college experience with STEM majors that Bowdoin does not offer. Both schools focus on interdisciplinary learning. Union lists many interdisciplinary programs and combined degree options, including Leadership in Medicine and 3+3 law programs. Bowdoin, on the other hand, has interdisciplinary majors and encourages a broad approach to study through its distribution requirements, which reflect The Offer of the College, its historic focus on a well-rounded education. Union follows a trimester system with three 10-week terms, providing a long winter break and flexible scheduling. Bowdoin operates on a two-semester system. The trimester at Union allows for unique immersive experiences or multiple internships within an academic year. Some may see this as an advantage of Union’s academic calendar.

‍Class Size and Student-Faculty Ratio: Both colleges emphasize small classes and close interaction with professors. Bowdoin’s student-faculty ratio is about 8:1 to 9:1, with approximately 1,840 students and 216 full-time faculty. Union College’s student-faculty ratio is 9:1, making it nearly identical to Bowdoin’s. In practice, class sizes at both colleges are small. Union reports an average introductory class size of 24 and an upper-level class size of 14. Bowdoin’s class sizes are similarly small; most Bowdoin classes have fewer than 20 students, which helps its strong academic reputation in U.S. News. Both institutions avoid large lecture courses typical of bigger universities. Instead, they focus on seminars and labs led by professors without teaching assistants.

Faculty Credentials: The teaching quality at both colleges relies on highly qualified faculty. At Bowdoin, almost all tenure-line faculty have a doctorate or terminal degree in their field. Union reports that 97% of its 219 faculty members also hold a Ph.D. or the highest degree in their discipline. These figures indicate that students at either college will learn from experts, often leaders in their fields. Union has a slightly larger faculty count (219) than Bowdoin (about 216 FTE) because of its higher undergraduate enrollment. Both colleges value teaching and mentorship. Bowdoin emphasizes that faculty are dedicated to teaching undergraduates, with no graduate students to divert their attention. Union similarly highlights the close advising students receive, noting that students meet with academic advisors 50% more often than at many other colleges. The focus on teaching is reflected in student satisfaction and research involvement. About 80% of Union students participate in faculty-mentored research, which is likely similar to Bowdoin’s robust opportunities for undergraduate research. Bowdoin sponsors many summer research fellowships and honors projects, although a specific percentage is not published here. In summary, both colleges provide rigorous academic programs with personal attention. Union’s engineering offerings and trimester system give it a unique position alongside Bowdoin’s traditional liberal arts curriculum.
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‍Student Life and Campus Culture‍

Residential Life and Housing: Both colleges are fully residential and emphasize living on campus, but their approaches differ. Bowdoin eliminated fraternities in 1997 and created an inclusive College House system instead. Every first-year student at Bowdoin is assigned to a college-affiliated social house, which acts as a center for social events. This model encourages inclusion and reduces exclusivity. All Bowdoin students live on campus for four years, and first-year dorms and College Houses foster a strong community network. In Fall 2025, 99% of Bowdoin students lived in college housing. In contrast, Union College has a deep-rooted Greek life tradition. Known as the “Mother of Fraternities,” Union was the birthplace of several fraternities in the 19th century. Today, Union hosts ten residential fraternities and sororities, along with three additional Greek organizations, and students can join Greek life starting in their sophomore year. At the same time, Union introduced its Minerva House system. This system assigns all students, including those outside of Greek life, to one of seven faculty-led residential houses that support academic and social events. Union features both Greek life and a house system, balancing tradition with inclusivity. About 30 to 40% of Union students join fraternities or sororities, with Greek participation starting at 0% in the first year because recruitment occurs in the second year. Recent data shows that roughly 20% of undergraduate men and 37% of women at Union participated in Greek organizations. This level of Greek involvement is high compared to many peers and can influence social life on campus, for better or worse. Supporters argue that Greek life offers leadership opportunities, community service, and an active social scene. Critics sometimes express concerns about exclusivity or how well it aligns with diversity goals. A campus study indicated that Greek membership at Union is disproportionately white compared to the student body, a challenge the college is working on through diversity initiatives. Bowdoin’s absence of fraternities means its social life is centered on campus-wide events, college house gatherings, athletics, and outdoor activities, which many believe promote a united student body. Union’s social life is often described as what students “make of it,” with over 130 clubs, theme houses, Minerva programs, and Greek houses contributing to a wide range of options. Both campuses are residential in nature, and Union guarantees housing. Nearly all students live on campus, with around 92% residing there in recent years. This is supported by Union’s policy requiring students to live on campus throughout their time at the college.

Union College’s iconic Nott Memorial highlights the college’s mix of tradition and innovation on its campus. The campus settings of Bowdoin and Union are quite different. Bowdoin’s campus is located in a small town, Brunswick, a charming coastal town in Maine. The campus is known for its beautiful brick and stone buildings and green quads. It also provides access to natural areas; Bowdoin owns a coastal studies center and a scientific station on Kent Island, reflecting its connection to Maine’s outdoors. Student life at Bowdoin often includes outdoor activities, with the Bowdoin Outing Club being one of the largest student organizations. There is a strong culture of community engagement and service. Union College is situated in Schenectady, a small city in upstate New York, about 20 minutes from Albany. Union’s campus combines urban and pastoral elements. It features an 80-acre campus with formal gardens, including an eight-acre botanical garden called Jackson’s Garden, and historic architecture. However, it is also in the downtown area of Schenectady. This gives Union students easy access to city amenities and internships in the Capital Region while still enjoying a self-contained campus. Union’s student life may involve more off-campus engagement compared to Bowdoin’s rural setting. Culturally, Bowdoin is often seen as progressive, community-oriented, and academically rigorous, while its student body remains approachable. Union’s culture blends a liberal arts ethos with practical elements, possibly influenced by its engineering and pre-professional programs. Union students strive for a balance between academic responsibilities and vibrant social lives; about one-third of students compete in varsity sports, which shows the importance of athletics. Bowdoin is similarly athletic, with around 35 to 40% of its students on varsity teams, as part of the NESCAC conference. A highlight of student life at Bowdoin is its dining services. Bowdoin’s dining is consistently ranked among the best in the country, offering gourmet-quality food and accommodating options, which enhances student satisfaction. Union’s dining is respected but not as renowned as Bowdoin’s. Still, Union has invested in campus facilities, offering multiple dining halls and meal plan options, as reflected in its comprehensive fee that covers the board.

In summary, student life at Bowdoin revolves around a close-knit community without fraternities, where social life focuses on college houses, campus traditions, and activities outdoors. Student life at Union is more diverse, incorporating Minerva Houses, a significant Greek presence, and the surrounding city environment. This offers students a range of social opportunities. A prospective student who prefers a traditionally structured, fraternity-free environment might be drawn to Bowdoin. Conversely, one who values Greek life or a mix of urban and campus experiences might find Union appealing. It’s important to note that Union allows students to join Greek life if they wish, but also provides strong alternatives, such as Minerva Houses and clubs, serving different preferences and personalities.


‍Diversity and Demographics

‍Both Bowdoin and Union have made progress in increasing student diversity, enrolling significant percentages of students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. Racial and ethnic diversity is similar at both colleges, with Union slightly ahead in some areas for its newest class. In Bowdoin’s Class of 2029 (starting in fall 2025), 35% of students are domestic students of color. At Union, the incoming Class of 2029 includes about 38% domestic students of color, broken down into 7% Asian, 11% Black, 14% Hispanic, and 6% multiracial. The overall student bodies reflect a similar picture: Bowdoin's total student body in Fall 2025 was 39.4% students of color, while Union reports about 26% domestic students of color overall. Union’s lower figure compared to its first-year class shows significant recent gains in diversity among new cohorts. Both Bowdoin and Union attract students from across the country, though Bowdoin's reach is somewhat broader both nationally and internationally. About 10% of Bowdoin’s Class of 2029 are international students, while 6% of Union’s are international (non-US citizens or permanent residents). The domestic geographic distribution shows Bowdoin’s class spans 44 states, while Union’s represents 32 states, with strong representation from New York and the Northeast.

Socioeconomic diversity is another area where Union shines. First-generation college students make up 23% of Union’s incoming class, compared to 18% at Bowdoin. Likewise, Pell Grant recipients, which indicate lower-income students, account for 27% of Union’s first-year class and 21% of Bowdoin's. These figures imply that Union enrolls a slightly larger share of students from lower-income backgrounds. In fact, over a quarter of Union freshmen receive federal Pell Grants, which is notably high for a selective private college, highlighting a commitment to access. Bowdoin’s 21% of Pell recipients is also significant, exceeding many of its peers, but Union's figure is a point of pride often overlooked in discussions about elite college diversity. Both colleges engage in programs like QuestBridge, with Bowdoin enrolling 25 QuestBridge matches in the Class of 2029, among other initiatives to attract high-achieving students from underserved communities. Bowdoin practices need-blind admissions for domestic students and meets full financial need without loans, which has helped it build diverse classes. Union is need-aware in admissions, but it guarantees meeting full demonstrated need for those admitted on time and provides substantial merit aid to broaden the socioeconomic mix.

Gender balance varies due to Union’s engineering focus. Bowdoin’s student body is roughly 52% female and 48% male, reflecting a typical slight female majority seen at many liberal arts colleges. In contrast, Union College has 56% male and 44% female in its latest class, with about 53% male overall (approximately 1,080 men compared to 950 women in recent years). Union’s male majority mainly results from the popularity of engineering and computer science, fields that nationally attract more male students. In Union’s graduating class, engineering is the most chosen major. Both colleges support non-binary identities, and each has small but visible LGBTQ communities and resource centers.

To foster diversity, both colleges offer cultural centers and programming. Bowdoin has organizations and centers for students of color, LGBTQ students, and religious groups, and it has a strong track record in promoting diversity. About 52% of Bowdoin students receive financial aid, and the college emphasizes recruiting from public schools, with over half of its students coming from public high schools. Union College has a Diversity and Inclusion office and has recently launched initiatives to promote inclusion in Greek life and other areas. According to Niche.com, student surveys show that Union’s campus is considered diverse in terms of intellect, geography, and demographics, with around 30% of the student body being domestic students of color or international students. While Bowdoin has historically served many affluent students due to its selectivity, its current demographics indicate significant racial and economic diversity for a college of its caliber. Union’s slightly less selective admission process may allow it to enroll a broader range of students from various socioeconomic backgrounds while still upholding strong academic standards.

In conclusion, both colleges show a commitment to diversity in race, nationality, and socioeconomic status. However, Union matches or even exceeds Bowdoin in certain areas, such as first-generation and Pell enrollment. This reflects Union’s goal of making private education more accessible through merit scholarships and the “Making U Possible” grant program, an advantage that might be overlooked compared to Bowdoin’s greater prestige. Students from underrepresented backgrounds can expect supportive environments at both institutions. Still, Bowdoin’s established financial aid resources and national reach may offer a larger critical mass of specific groups, as evidenced by Bowdoin’s higher international student percentage, which contributes to global diversity on campus.


‍Admissions Selectivity and Student Profile

‍One of the biggest differences between Bowdoin and Union is their admissions selectivity. Bowdoin College is extremely selective. In the latest admission cycle for the Class of 2029, Bowdoin received over 14,000 applications and admitted only 7% of those applicants, marking the lowest acceptance rate in the school's history. For context, Bowdoin’s acceptance rate was around 8% the previous year and has steadily dropped into single digits. This puts Bowdoin among the most selective colleges in the U.S., similar to Ivy League admission rates. In addition, Bowdoin’s yield, or the percentage of admitted students who choose to enroll, exceeds 50%. This indicates that many top students consider Bowdoin their first choice. High yield is partly due to Bowdoin’s binding Early Decision policy and its strong appeal; over half the incoming class typically comes through Early Decision. The middle 50% SAT range for enrolling Bowdoin students is approximately 1470 to 1530, if scores are submitted; about 50% of students do not provide test scores as Bowdoin adopted a test-optional policy early on. Bowdoin’s academic profile is remarkably strong: around 95% of incoming students graduated in the top 10% of their high school class, and nearly all were in the top quartile. In summary, Bowdoin’s student body is among the most academically prepared of any liberal arts college.

Union College, while selective, has a much more moderate admission rate in comparison. For the Class of 2029, Union admitted about 43% of applicants, with 4,019 admits out of 9,249 applications. This overall acceptance rate has remained relatively stable for Union in recent years, around 40% to 45% (44% in 2024, for example). Union’s admissions strategy includes Early Decision I and II, which make up about 30% of the incoming class. The yield rate at Union is around 13% to 15% in recent years, much lower than Bowdoin’s yield, which is typical for a school often seen as a “match” or “safety” option for students applying to more selective colleges. However, it’s important to note that Union’s admitted student profile is still quite strong academically. The middle 50% SAT range for enrolled Union freshmen is 1320 to 1460, which overlaps with the lower end of Bowdoin’s range, clearly indicating that Union attracts high-achieving students despite also admitting some with more average scores. The middle 50% ACT range for Union is 30 to 34, suggesting that many students have standardized test scores in the top 5% to 10% nationally. Notably, Union is also test-optional, with a majority (67%) of its enrolling students not submitting SAT or ACT scores, similar to Bowdoin’s 50% rate, reflecting a holistic admissions approach at both colleges.

Both Bowdoin and Union conduct holistic reviews in their admissions processes. Bowdoin has been test-optional since 1969, focusing on essays, recommendations, and personal character in addition to academic records. Bowdoin specifically seeks students who are bright and engaged, who will contribute to the campus community. The admitted classes at Bowdoin are typically full of valedictorians and national award winners due to the intense competition. Union, which describes itself as “highly selective” but is practically more accessible, also values a strong high school curriculum; 76% of Union’s incoming class were in the top 20% of their high school class. Union emphasizes demonstrated interest, giving a boost to Early Decision applicants, and looks for students who will thrive in its balanced academic and social environment. Since Union is need-aware and considers financial need in some admissions decisions, the class can be shaped based on the ability to pay in borderline cases. In contrast, Bowdoin is need-blind for U.S. applicants and meets 100% of demonstrated need without loans, allowing Bowdoin to admit students purely on merit without financial considerations. Bowdoin’s large endowment of around $2.9 billion supports this policy. Union’s need-aware admissions means that very high-need students might face more competition, but once admitted, Union commits to meeting full need, although this may include federal loans, unlike Bowdoin’s loan-free packages.

Another aspect of selectivity is early admissions. Bowdoin fills about 45% to 50% of its class through Early Decision, which has a higher acceptance rate of around 17% to 18% for Early Decision compared to less than 8% for regular decision, based on recent data. Union also fills a sizable portion of its class through Early Decision I and II, making up 30% of the class, and its Early Decision acceptance rate is significantly higher than its overall rate, a common strategy to boost yield. From an applicant’s viewpoint, Bowdoin is a stretch for almost any student, even those with perfect GPAs and test scores. In contrast, Union would be seen as a good target for strong students and a reach for those with more average academic records.

The differences in admissions lead to distinct student profiles. Bowdoin’s student body is highly homogenous in academic caliber, with almost all students being at the top of their class. Union’s student body, while still strong, features a bit more academic diversity. This is evident in metrics like graduation and retention rates, which are discussed in the Outcomes section. Bowdoin’s nearly 98% first-year retention and about 93% six-year graduation rates reflect a uniformly prepared class and ample support. In contrast, Union’s retention rate is 89%, with around 84% to 85% graduating within six years. These numbers are commendable but suggest a somewhat varied level of student preparation or different challenges, such as the rigor of its engineering programs, which sometimes require an additional year. On a positive note for Union, one could argue that it opens doors for a wider range of students without sacrificing educational quality. Its classes include high achievers with top quartile SAT scores in the 1400s, alongside students who may not have qualified for Bowdoin but can still thrive in a supportive liberal arts environment. Union’s acceptance rate in the low 40% range suggests it is selective without being overly elite, which can attract students seeking an excellent education with slightly lower admissions pressure.

In summary, Bowdoin’s admissions are elite and highly competitive, resulting in a student group with Ivy-League statistics. Union’s admissions are selective yet accessible, leading to a diverse academic profile that still produces strong outcomes. Union’s capacity to enroll capable STEM students, reflected in its popular engineering programs and solid SAT ranges, shows that its student quality is comparable to more highly ranked institutions, especially in technical fields, even as it takes a broader approach to admissions. This comparability is frequently overlooked; Union’s median SAT scores are not far off from some NESCAC colleges, and its graduates perform similarly to those from top universities, as we will explore next.


‍Cost and Financial Aid

‍One of the biggest differences between Bowdoin and Union lies in their admissions selectivity. Bowdoin College is very selective. In the most recent cycle for the Class of 2029, Bowdoin received over 14,000 applications and admitted only 7% of them, which is the lowest rate in Bowdoin’s history. For context, Bowdoin’s acceptance rate was about 8% the previous year and has gradually dropped to single digits. This places Bowdoin among the most selective colleges in the U.S., similar to Ivy League schools. Moreover, Bowdoin’s yield, which is the percentage of admitted students who choose to enroll, exceeds 50%. This suggests that many top students see Bowdoin as their first choice. The high yield is partly due to Bowdoin’s binding Early Decision policy and its strong appeal; typically, over half the class comes in through Early Decision. The middle 50% SAT range for enrolling Bowdoin students is roughly 1470 to 1530, if scores are submitted. Bowdoin was one of the first to adopt test-optional policies, and about 50% of incoming students do not submit their scores. Bowdoin has an exceptionally strong academic profile: about 95% of incoming students graduated in the top 10% of their high school class, and nearly all were in the top quartile. In short, Bowdoin’s student body is among the most academically prepared of any liberal arts college.

Union College is selective but has a much more moderate admit rate. For the Class of 2029, Union admitted around 43% of applicants, with 4,019 admitted out of 9,249 applications. This acceptance rate, which is around 40 to 45%, has remained relatively stable for Union in recent years—for example, it was 44% in 2024. Union’s admissions strategy includes Early Decision I and II, which accounted for about 30% of the incoming class. The yield rate at Union is roughly 13 to 15% in recent years, much lower than Bowdoin’s. This is typical for a school often seen as a “match” or “safety” option for students applying to very selective colleges. However, it’s important to note that Union’s admitted student profile is still strong academically. The middle 50% SAT range for enrolled Union freshmen is 1320 to 1460, overlapping with the lower end of Bowdoin’s range. This shows that Union attracts high-achieving students, though it also admits some with average scores. The middle 50% ACT range for Union is 30 to 34, indicating that many students have standardized test scores in the top 5 to 10% nationally. Notably, Union is also test-optional, with a majority (67%) of its enrolling students not submitting SAT or ACT scores. This is similar to Bowdoin’s 50% test-optional usage and reflects a holistic admissions approach at both schools.

Regarding admissions criteria, Bowdoin and Union both use a holistic review process. Bowdoin has been test-optional since 1969, focusing on essays, recommendations, and character alongside academic records. It looks for students who are bright and engaged and who will contribute to the campus community. Bowdoin’s admitted classes often include valedictorians and national award winners due to the competition. Union describes itself as highly selective but is more accessible in practice. It values a strong high school curriculum, with 76% of Union’s incoming class in the top 20% of their high school class. Union places emphasis on demonstrated interest, with ED applicants getting a boost, and seeks students who will thrive in its balanced academic and social environment. Since Union is need-aware, it considers financial need in some admission decisions, which may influence class composition in borderline cases. In contrast, Bowdoin is need-blind for U.S. applicants and meets 100% of demonstrated need without loans. This allows Bowdoin to admit students purely based on merit without considering finances, supported by its large endowment of about $2.9 billion. Union’s need-aware admissions may result in very high-need students facing a bit more competition. However, once admitted, Union commits to meeting full need, though this may include federal loans as part of its financial aid packages, unlike Bowdoin’s loan-free offerings.

Another aspect of selectivity is early admissions. Bowdoin fills about 45 to 50% of its class through Early Decision, which has a higher acceptance rate (around 17 to 18% for ED compared to under 8% for regular decision, based on recent data). Union also fills a large portion of its class through Early Decision I and II, with an acceptance rate that is considerably higher than its overall rate, since this is a common strategy to secure yield. From an applicant’s perspective, Bowdoin is a high reach for nearly any student, even those with perfect GPAs and test scores. In contrast, Union would be considered a target for strong students and a reach for those with more average academic records.

The differences in admissions create distinct student profiles. Bowdoin’s student body is very homogeneous in academic caliber, as almost all students were at the top of their class. Union’s student body, while still strong, has a bit more academic range. This is evident in metrics like graduation rates and retention rates discussed in the Outcomes section. Bowdoin boasts nearly a 98% first-year retention rate and about 93% graduation in six years, reflecting a uniformly prepared class and ample support. In comparison, Union’s 89% first-year retention and roughly 84 to 85% six-year graduation rates are respectable but suggest a slightly more varied level of student preparation or different challenges, such as the rigor of engineering programs that may require a fifth year. On a positive note, one could argue that Union provides opportunities to a wider range of students without sacrificing educational quality. Its classes include high achievers (with SAT scores in the 1400s) alongside students who might not have qualified for Bowdoin but can still succeed in a supportive liberal arts environment. Union’s acceptance rate in the low 40% range suggests it is selective but not hyper-elite, which can appeal to students looking for a great education with slightly less admissions pressure.


‍Faculty and Undergraduate Teaching Environment

‍The cost of attending Bowdoin and Union is high, as is typical for private colleges, but their financial aid systems differ significantly. For the 2025–26 academic year, Bowdoin’s total cost is $91,300, which includes tuition, fees, housing, and food. Union College’s total cost for the same year is slightly lower at $89,316, putting them in essentially the same range. Both schools consider financial need in their admissions, but their aid packages and scholarship policies differentiate them.

Need-Based Aid: Bowdoin is well-known for its generous need-based financial aid. It meets 100% of demonstrated financial need with grants, without loans, for all admitted students. In Bowdoin’s Class of 2029, 52% of students receive need-based aid, with an average scholarship award of $72,000 per year. Bowdoin is one of the few colleges that have removed loans from its aid packages, resulting in students with financial need graduating with minimal debt. Only 17% of Bowdoin seniors take out any federal loans, and the median debt for graduates is around $15,375, which is quite low. Bowdoin also supports low-income students by providing every student with a laptop and an iPad through its Digital Excellence Commitment and funding unpaid internships and study abroad for aid recipients. Essentially, Bowdoin uses its $2.9 billion endowment to ensure affordability for those accepted.

Union College also meets the full demonstrated need for admitted students who apply for aid on time. However, its aid composition may include loans and Work-Study. Union has a significant financial aid budget, providing $80 million in scholarships and grants each year. In Union’s first-year class profile, over 60% of students receive need-based scholarship aid, a slightly higher percentage than at Bowdoin, which shows Union’s commitment to socio-economic diversity. The average need-based aid package at Union exceeds $55,000 per year, which, even though lower than Bowdoin’s, still significantly lowers costs for families. Union’s need-based packages include student loans, with the Common Data Set showing graduates with loans have an average federal debt in the $22,000 range. However, Union’s low default rate indicates that graduates manage their repayments well. Notably, 27% of Union’s incoming class are Pell Grant recipients. These students usually have very low expected family contributions and receive substantial aid. Union’s ability to enroll many Pell students indicates that its need-aware system effectively supports low-income students.
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Merit Scholarships: A significant difference is that Union College offers merit scholarships, while Bowdoin does not. Bowdoin focuses solely on need-based aid and does not provide merit awards. Union allocates merit aid to attract strong students and those who may not qualify for need-based aid but still need help. More than 25% of Union students receive merit scholarships, often awarded to top applicants regardless of need. The average merit scholarship for Union’s incoming class is $33,800 per year, and these awards range from $10,000 to $46,000 annually. This significant amount can greatly benefit high-achieving middle-class students who might not receive need-based aid at Bowdoin. Union’s “Making U Possible” initiative targets families that do not qualify for much need-based aid by providing grants of $20,000 to $40,000 for families with expected contributions close to the cost of attendance. This provides a unique advantage for Union as it can be more affordable than Bowdoin for some middle-income families who would pay the full price at Bowdoin. For example, a family that does not demonstrate need at Bowdoin would pay the entire $91,000 per year, while the same student could receive a $30,000 merit scholarship at Union, reducing the net cost to about $60,000. Conversely, a low-income student with high need might receive a loan-free full ride at Bowdoin, while Union could meet their need but include some loans or a work component. Nevertheless, both options allow the student to attend at an affordable cost.

‍Tuition and Fee Increases: Both colleges have experienced annual cost increases. Union’s total fee rose from $86,049 in 2024-25 to $89,316 in 2025-26, reflecting roughly a 3.8% increase. Bowdoin's costs have also increased each year. However, Bowdoin's substantial endowment per student often helps keep net prices low for aid recipients. The average net price at Bowdoin for those on aid is relatively low, especially for families in lower income brackets. Union’s average net price can vary more due to merit distributions and the fact that not everyone's full need may be met without loans.In terms of value, both schools have excellent outcomes that justify their costs. Bowdoin might seem like a safer financial choice for those admitted with need due to its no-loan policy, while Union offers a flexible merit strategy that can benefit academically strong students. Some might argue that Union’s need-aware admissions process could exclude some high-need applicants, whereas Bowdoin’s need-blind policy is more equitable. On the other hand, critics of Bowdoin’s cost might point out that without merit scholarships, a middle-class student admitted to Bowdoin could face a hefty bill if they miss the need cutoff, while Union might reward that student’s achievements with significant merit aid.

To illustrate, Bowdoin reports that about 51% of students receive need-based aid, while the rest pay full price. Union reports that over 85% of students receive some kind of aid, whether need-based or merit, meaning there are fewer full-pay students. This suggests that Union is providing discounts to a broader segment of its class. Ultimately, both colleges are dedicated to affordability within their systems. Bowdoin excels at supporting the neediest students very well, even offering extras like laptops and internships, while Union’s strength lies in providing opportunities and scholarships for a diverse range of students, including those who might not qualify for need-based aid at other schools. Families comparing offers often find that Union can be similarly priced or less expensive than Bowdoin for middle-income families. Meanwhile, for low-income families, Bowdoin may be more advantageous due to its loan-free, full-need approach.
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‍Undergraduate Outcomes (Employment and Graduate School Placement)

‍A key factor when comparing colleges is how well their graduates do after earning their degrees. By various measures, Union College and Bowdoin College demonstrate strong and comparable undergraduate outcomes. This includes metrics like career placement rates, median salaries, and graduate school admissions.

‍Placement Rates: Both Bowdoin and Union report that within a year of graduation, most students are either employed or enrolled in graduate or professional school. A recent survey of the Class of 2019 found that only 2% of Bowdoin graduates were still seeking jobs one year after graduation, meaning 98% had jobs or graduate school placements. Union's results were nearly identical; only 2% of graduates were still job-seeking after a year. In other words, about 98% of graduates from both colleges find positive placements within a year of graduating. This reflects the effectiveness of their education and career support systems. Both schools also note that many students have job offers before graduation; data from both Bowdoin and Union show significant percentages securing jobs by graduation day or shortly after.

‍Career Services and Recruitment: Union College’s career center is considered a strength; The Princeton Review ranked Union’s Career Services as the 12th-best in the nation. This likely contributes to Union’s strong placement statistics. The most popular field for new graduates at Union is engineering, and the college has built strong employer connections in industries like technology, finance, and healthcare, as shown by its top employment fields and internship programs. Bowdoin’s career planning office is also very effective; Bowdoin graduates often enter finance, consulting, tech, education, and public service, with well-known employers like Bain, Barclays, and HBO hiring Bowdoin alumni. Both schools have active alumni networks that support current students; for example, Bowdoin’s alumni frequently offer internship opportunities, while Union’s alumni network, though smaller nationally, is particularly close-knit in the Northeast.

‍Median Salaries: According to analyses, including PayScale data reported by Newsweek, the earnings of Union and Bowdoin alumni are very similar. Mid-career median pay for Union graduates is about $124,700, while Bowdoin graduates earn about $124,400. Early career median pay is also close, with Union at roughly $64,200 and Bowdoin at around $62,800. These figures indicate that Union alumni earn at levels similar to those of Bowdoin alumni, despite Bowdoin’s higher selectivity. In fact, a Newsweek ranking of colleges with the highest-earning graduates places Bowdoin at #64 and Union at #56 nationally, highlighting Union’s strong performance in alumni outcomes. It is noteworthy that Union and Bowdoin alumni have almost identical salary outcomes by mid-career, showing the high quality and reputation of Union’s programs. This might surprise some who underestimate Union, as employers clearly value Union graduates alongside those from top-tier colleges.

‍Graduate School and Professional School: Both colleges have a significant number of graduates pursuing further education. Bowdoin often sees many alumni go on to PhDs, law school, or medical school, typically with high acceptance rates to those programs, as Bowdoin’s academic rigor and advising prepare students well. Bowdoin has stated that over 80% of its medical school applicants gain admission, aligning with national elite college averages. Union also offers specialized programs like Leadership in Medicine, a direct pathway with Albany Medical College, leading many graduates to medical school. Union’s combined degree programs, such as the 3+3 law program with Albany Law School and the 4+1 MBA program with Clarkson, guarantee some students graduate placements. Reports from Union indicate many students go to graduate schools like Columbia, NYU, and other research universities for master’s degrees or PhDs, as well as to industry. For example, Union’s Class of 2019 had graduates heading to companies like General Electric, IBM, and Goldman Sachs, along with others entering graduate programs at institutions such as Duke and Dartmouth. Bowdoin’s alumni often enter fields like consulting and finance, with firms like Deloitte and Google actively recruiting on campus, and many serve in Teach for America or Fulbright fellowships, reflecting a commitment to service.

‍Alumni Achievements: Bowdoin’s alumni network includes notable figures, such as U.S. President Franklin Pierce (the 14th President), as well as authors Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Union’s alumni base, while smaller, is distinguished as well; it includes a U.S. President (Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President) along with multiple cabinet secretaries, judges, and business leaders. Union points out that its graduates also include Nobel Prize winners, a MacArthur Genius Fellow, and an Olympic gold medalist. These examples show that both Bowdoin and Union produce leaders and high achievers across many fields.

‍Graduate Satisfaction and Engagement: While harder to quantify, one outcome measure is alumni giving or satisfaction. Bowdoin typically has a high alumni giving rate, often above 50%, indicating a strong connection with the college. Union’s giving rate is lower, in the 20-30% range, but recent capital campaigns and celebrations for its sesquicentennial have seen increasing alumni support. This may reflect Bowdoin’s smaller size and elite status, which fosters a tighter alumni community. However, Union’s alumni, especially in engineering and business, often maintain strong loyalty and help new graduates network.

‍Retention and Graduation: As mentioned earlier, Bowdoin’s six-year graduation rate is about 93%, while Union’s is around 84-85%. Bowdoin’s first-year retention rate is about 98%, and Union's is around 89%. These differences can impact outcomes; Bowdoin loses very few students, likely due to its resources—no one has to leave for financial reasons, for example—and strong student support. Union’s slightly lower retention could result from some students transferring out or taking leaves, possibly if they pursue majors not offered by Union or find the trimester system unsuitable. In addition, engineering students sometimes take a fifth year, which counts against the four-year graduation rate but still results in completion. Despite this, an 84-85% graduation rate is significantly higher than the national average and similar to many highly selective colleges. It indicates that Union effectively graduates the majority of its students.In conclusion, undergraduate outcomes at Union College and Bowdoin College are both excellent and nearly equal based on quantitative measures. Union competes strongly against an elite peer, with 98% placement within a year for both colleges, equal mid-career earnings, and successful alumni. This is a significant point in Union’s favor; it suggests that students who may choose Union—perhaps due to its programs, merit scholarships, or because they weren’t accepted at a Bowdoin-level school—can expect similar outcomes as if they attended a top-10 liberal arts college. Framing Union positively, one might say it is an underappreciated college in terms of return on investment and career success. The data shows that Union graduates perform just as well in the job market as Bowdoin grads, and Union’s focus on career readiness—evidenced by internships, with 85% of Union students completing at least one during college—likely contributes to that success. Bowdoin also boasts excellent outcomes, and its prestige can open certain doors, such as a strong pathway to Wall Street and elite graduate schools. However, any doubts about Union not providing an equally solid springboard are dispelled by these metrics.
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‍Conclusion
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‍In comparing Union College and Bowdoin College, we see two excellent liberal arts schools that produce well-educated, successful graduates, each with its unique character and strengths. Bowdoin has a stronger academic reputation and a more competitive admissions process, but Union also offers small classes along with the unique option of engineering and other interdisciplinary programs. This shows that a Union education can be as challenging and broad as Bowdoin’s while covering a wider range of subjects.

Student life at Bowdoin focuses on an inclusive, fraternity-free model in a beautiful coastal setting. In contrast, Union combines historic Greek life with a modern house system on an active urban campus. Union provides social options for different preferences, which some may see as an advantage. Both colleges are committed to diversity, with Union matching or exceeding Bowdoin in first-generation and low-income student representation. This reflects Union’s mission to broaden access for more students through merit aid and outreach.

Admissions differ significantly, with Bowdoin accepting about 7% of applicants compared to Union’s roughly 43% acceptance rate. However, the academic outcomes and student success indicators are almost identical. Union graduates earn mid-career incomes comparable to Bowdoin’s and have a 98% job placement rate within a year. This shows that Union offers great value, and students do not lose future opportunities by choosing it over a higher-ranked college.

From a neutral, data-driven perspective, Bowdoin clearly stands out in selectivity, prestige, and some resources, such as a larger endowment per student that allows for no-loan aid and initiatives like supplying every student with a laptop. On the other hand, Union excels in areas that may not receive much recognition, like the strength of its career preparation, the combination of liberal arts with engineering—which produces graduates who are both well-rounded and ready for jobs—and a merit scholarship program that makes it an appealing option for many families.

A student considering both schools would find excellent academics and faculty support at each. The choice might come down to personal preferences such as environment (rural Maine vs. an upstate New York city), social scene (availability of Greek life vs. none), intended majors (engineering or not), and their admissions profile (Bowdoin as a reach vs. Union as a target).

Overall, the data indicate that Union College holds its own against Bowdoin College on important performance metrics. While Bowdoin has a well-deserved and established reputation, Union stands out in this comparison as an often overlooked gem offering similar outcomes and a unique college experience. Both schools highlight the value of a liberal arts education in promoting critical thinking, community involvement, and successful futures for their students. The choice between them is not about good or bad but about which strengths and campus culture better match a student’s goals. With Union’s specific advantages and Bowdoin’s celebrated qualities, students are lucky to have two such outstanding options in American higher education.


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Sources:

1. Academics & Faculty

• U.S. News & World Report – National Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings 2025
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-liberal-arts-colleges
‍Used for: Bowdoin (#5) and Union (#44) rankings, student-faculty ratios, class sizes.
• Union College Academics Overview
https://www.union.edu/academics
‍Used for: ABET-accredited engineering, trimester system, interdisciplinary programs, 80% undergrad research participation.
• Bowdoin College Academics Overview
https://www.bowdoin.edu/academics/
‍Used for: Distribution requirements, no engineering, semester system, undergraduate research, faculty credentials.

2. Admissions & Student Profile

• College Kickstart – Class of 2029 Admission Results
https://www.collegekickstart.com/blog/item/class-of-2029-admission-results
‍Used for: Bowdoin 7% admit rate, Union 43% admit rate, SAT/ACT ranges, yield rates.
• Union College Common Data Set (2023–24)
https://www.union.edu/offices/institutional-research/common-data-set
‍Used for: Admit rate, test scores, top 20% of class, Pell Grant %, first-gen %, gender balance.
• Bowdoin College Common Data Set (2023–24)
https://www.bowdoin.edu/offices/institutional-research/common-data-set/
‍Used for: Admit rate, test-optional policy, top 10% of class, yield, need-blind admissions.

3. Cost & Financial Aid

• Union College Tuition & Financial Aid
https://www.union.edu/admissions/financial-aid
‍Used for: Merit scholarships ($10K–$46K), average need-based aid, Making U Possible grant, need-aware policy.
• Bowdoin College Financial Aid Overview
https://www.bowdoin.edu/financialaid/
‍Used for: No merit aid, 100% need met, no loans, average aid package $72K, laptop/iPad program.

4. Post-Graduation Outcomes

• Union College Career Outcomes – Class of 2022
https://www.union.edu/career-center/post-grad-outcomes
‍Used for: 98% placement rate, median starting salary ~$65K, mid-career salary ~$125K, top employers.
• Bowdoin College Career Outcomes – Class of 2023
https://www.bowdoin.edu/career-planning/post-graduate-outcomes/
‍Used for: 98% placement rate, top industries, grad school acceptance rates, Fulbright awards.

5. Student Life & Campus Culture
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• Niche – Union College Student Life & Diversity
https://www.niche.com/colleges/union-college-new-york/campus-life/
‍Used for: Greek life stats (30–40% participation), Minerva Houses, student reviews, diversity grade.
• Niche – Bowdoin College Student Life & Diversity
https://www.niche.com/colleges/bowdoin-college/campus-life/
‍Used for: College House system, no Greek life, dining hall rankings, student satisfaction, diversity grade.