APPLYING TO COLLEGE
SHOULD NOT BE EXPENSIVE OR COMPLICATED.
That’s why at Colby we’ve streamlined our application process—there are no fees to apply, supplements to submit, or extra essays to write. And as a test-optional institution, you’re able to choose whether to submit your SAT or ACT scores with your application for admission.
Through the Colby Commitment, we meet 100 percent of each admitted student’s demonstrated financial need without loans. This means you have the opportunity to graduate debt-free.
And as part of the newly expanded Fair Shot Fund, Colby is one of the only liberal arts colleges in the country that guarantees a substantial cap on parent or guardian contribution. Families earning up to $75,000 with typical assets can expect a parent or guardian contribution of $0, and families earning up to $200,000 with typical assets will have a parent or guardian contribution of no more than $20,000.
DavisConnects prepares Colby students for lifelong success by integrating our leading liberal arts education with unique internship, research, or global experiences for every student, regardless of personal and financial networks. This set of universal experiences is supported by a robust funding system and an advising model that pairs students with industry expert advisors from their first day on campus. Partnerships with leading employers and renowned graduate schools enhance opportunities for meaningful internships and research endeavors, and an innovative academic program anchored to the world’s most complex challenges positions students to make a significant impact in the field of their choosing. Within one year, 98% of the Class of 2024 were employed or in graduate or professional school.
Our admissions committee is thrilled to know you are considering Colby during your college search, and we look forward to learning more about you in the coming months.
Best,
Randi L. Maloney ’09 Vice President Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid
STRAIGHTFORWARD FINANCIAL AID POLICIES
We meet 100% of each admitted student’s demonstrated financial need without loans. Our average financial aid package is $77,757.*
*As of July 1, 2025 for the
Families with a total income of $75,001 to $100,000 with typical assets will have a parent or guardian contribution of no more than $10,000.
Families with a total income of $75,000 or less with typical assets can expect a parent or guardian contribution of $0.
Families with a total income of $100,001 to $150,000 with typical assets will have a parent or guardian contribution of no more than $15,000.
Families with a total income of $150,001 to $200,000 with typical assets will have a parent or guardian contribution of no more than $20,000.
For admission and financial aid requirements and deadlines, visit: AFA.COLBY.EDU/APPLY
THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A DEBT-FREE FUTURE
Graduating with loan debt means decades of limitation. We believe you should begin your post-college life with the
to pursue your career and forge your best path in the world.
COST OF AVERAGE STUDENT LOAN DEBT NATIONALLY (with interest over time)
According to the Education Data Initiative,
Total Borrowed: $31,900+
Total Interest Paid: $20,800
Total Amount Paid: $52,700+
LOANS INCLUDED IN COLBY FINANCIAL AID PACKAGES
Monthly Payment: $500 $0
(Standard Repayment Plan 20 Years)
GUARANTEED ACCESS TO THE WORLD
Our innovative hub for global experiences and opportunities, DavisConnects, provides funding to ensure all students can access high-impact experiences— regardless of their financial circumstances or personal networks.
Generous funds and an advising model that pairs students with industry experts beginning in their first year offers Colby students access to global research endeavors, internships, and cultural immersion experiences. Fund internships at home or abroad.
You can use DavisConnects grants to: Conduct collaborative or independent research in any discipline, at Colby or around the world. Travel anywhere in the world, immerse yourself in a language, pursue a creative venture, collect data, or engage in a humanitarian project.
There are no additional essays or writing supplements to submit.
90 SECONDS THAT COULD CHANGE YOUR LIFE A SIMPLE AND FREE APPLICATION
Apply to Colby using the Coalition Application, Common Application, or QuestBridge Application.
If you choose to submit your scores, you may self-report them with your application.
SAT and ACT
scores are not required.
APPLICATION DEADLINES
EARLY DECISION I
Admissions and financial aid: Nov. 15
EARLY DECISION II
Admissions: Jan. 5; Financial aid: Jan. 15
Spend 90 seconds answering six simple questions to estimate the cost of Colby for your family.
REGULAR DECISION
Admissions: Jan. 5; Financial aid: Jan. 15