Build infinite connections
Bridgewater is built on close relationships, and we do everything we can to bring people together. In the classroom, you’ll bond with your peers and your professors as you push yourself to explore new ideas and concepts. Outside the classroom, you’ll form lasting friendships—and have plenty of fun, too.
Build connections for life
In and out of the classroom, we’re continually creating new ways to learn from and with one another. These ever-evolving connections make college mean more—and offer a lifelong model for thriving in your career and in the world.
Know that you belong
Embrace the diversity of the Bridgewater community and see how our differences actually bring us closer together. Here, you can be yourself, let down your guard and discover what community really means.
Make yourself at home
Bridgewater is a place where people truly know— and care about — one another. Our students serve as volunteers and mentors across the region, discovering the full meaning of connections. Because Bridgewater is more than a college or a town. It’s home.
Of students get financial assistance
Clubs and student organizations
Student : faculty ratio
Apply for Undergraduate Admission
First-year students: Currently attending high school or graduated high school and not attending a post-secondary institution.
Submit the following to indicate your intent:
- An application
- Official high school transcript
- Test scores are optional
Admission Deadlines
Early Action Policy – November 15
If a first-time, first-year student wants to apply for EA, they need to indicate their intent on their admission application. Applying Early Action means an applicant will submit the following items by Nov. 15.
- Admission application (Common App or Bridgewater College App)
- Official high school transcript.
- Submit their SAT or ACT scores if they are not applying test-optional.
If an applicant submits the required documents by Nov. 15 and the applicant is admissible, this guarantees the student will receive their admission decision letter, which will include their merit award amount, by Dec. 1.
Admitted EA applicants have a deadline of May 1 to pay their reservation deposit. If an applicant does not submit all the necessary items by the deadline, their application will then be reviewed under the Rolling Admission Process.
Rolling Admissions Process
If a first-time, first-year student does not apply Early Action their admission application will be reviewed under the rolling admissions process. This process is a continual daily review of completed applications. Admitted applicants will receive their admission decision letter, which will include their merit award amount, within two-weeks of the date their admission application is completed.
Already admitted? Congratulations! Your path to becoming an Eagle starts here. Find out what’s next.
Application Process
To be considered for admission, first-year students must fill out Bridgewater’s free online application or use the Common App. All first-year student offers of admission and merit scholarships are based on a holistic, personalized review utilizing a high school GPA, supporting application materials and demonstrated interest in attending.
Required Materials
Official high school transcript
Bridgewater considers GPA and courses from your official high school transcript. We recommend students complete a minimum of 4 years of English, 3 years of mathematics (at least through Algebra II), 3 years of social sciences and history and 3 years of science. Even though foreign language is not a requirement for admission, we highly recommend that you take at least two years of a foreign language. Students should have the complete and final transcript high school transcript sent directly from their school to the Admissions Office.
Optional Materials
Standardized test scores
Students may submit their scores from either the SAT or ACT. We will review your application based on your highest scores. SAT and ACT scores are only reviewed if an applicant does not apply test optional. See test-optional policy below.
Test-Optional Policy
At BC, we take a personalized and holistic approach to our students’ education and we have chosen to apply that approach to our admissions process as well. If students feel their grades and overall performance in the classroom are better indicators of their academic ability than their ACT or SAT score, we encourage students to take advantage of our test-optional admissions policy. International students are not permitted to apply as test-optional and they may not self-report test scores. Test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency.
Q: How do I apply without submitting my standardized test scores?
A: Simply choose “test-optional” on your application. If you submitted your scores before applying and choose to apply with test-optional status, we will remove your test scores from consideration.
Q: May I submit my test scores if I would like to?
A: Students who believe their SAT or ACT scores represent a strong, positive component of their academic portfolio may still submit them as a core element of their application package.
Q: How does the evaluation process work if I don’t submit my score?
A: Our admissions staff members have always examined every component of a student’s application, but the record of course selection, grades, GPA and the strength of the curriculum has consistently provided the most accurate predictor of a student’s chance for future success at BC. If you decide to apply without your test score, we simply remove that factor from our consideration.
Q: Will it count against me if I withhold my scores?
A: No. We will rely on your other achievements in making an admission decision. If you have any questions, speak to your admission counselor.
Q: Will withholding my scores affect my eligibility for merit-based scholarships?
A: No. Our merit awards do not require a student to submit a test score.
Q: Can I change my mind after I apply?
A: Yes, you will need to email the Admissions Office (admissions@bridgewater.edu) asking to have your application changed to reflect your decision to either apply as test-optional or apply as not test-optional.
Q: Are any applicants required to submit standardized test scores?
A: To ensure we have enough information to make a decision, we still require test scores from some applicants. Homeschooled students are still required to submit either an ACT or SAT score. International students are required to submit a proof of English language proficiency in the form of a TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, SAT or ACT.
Q: Are recruited student-athletes allowed to apply test-optional?
A: Prospective student-athletes are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score to Bridgewater for consideration for admission or academic merit scholarships.
Q: Will transfer students need to provide standardized test scores?
A: Transfer students who apply to Bridgewater do not need to provide SAT, SAT subject tests, or ACT scores unless they choose to do so.
Q: Will I still qualify for the Flory Honors Program or President’s Merit Award consideration if I choose not to submit my test scores?
A: Yes. All students who apply for admission will automatically be considered for the Flory Honors Program and President’s Merit Award regardless of whether they choose to submit their test scores for consideration. More information can be found here.
I chose Bridgewater because of the community I felt when I first stepped foot on campus. I loved how the classrooms are not too big and I can keep a connection with my professor. I knew I would not be able to do that at a big university.
Jacqueline Mayorga ’23
FAQs
- Submit your FREE online application.
- Submit your official high school transcript that includes your senior classes.
- Test scores are optional. If you send your SAT or ACT scores, send them directly from the testing agency.
- GPA – This is a good indicator of your overall high school performance.
- SAT or ACT scores – We take either test and will review your application based on your highest scores. SAT and ACT test scores are only reviewed if an applicant does not apply test optional.
- Courses – We encourage students to take the most challenging courses they can. Earning a “B” in an honors level course is better than a “D” in an AP level course.
| Subject | Courses |
|---|---|
| English | 4 |
| Mathematics (at least thru Algebra II) | 3 |
| Social Sciences and History | 3 |
| Science | 3 |
Even though foreign language is not a requirement for admission, we highly recommend that you take at least two years of a foreign language.
In order to receive credit consideration, a minimum test score of 3 is required.
In order to receive credit consideration, there must be a comparable class offered at Bridgewater College and you must have earned a C or higher.
Your admissions counselor reviews your application and an admission decision is mailed to you. Our rolling admissions system means you don’t have to wait long to find out if you are in!
No. Admitted students are automatically reviewed for academic scholarships.
Questions about your application? Contact us!
Contact your admissions counselor or the admissions office at 800-759-8328 or admissions@bridgewater.edu.
Financial Aid
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Find Your Program
Bridgewater offers over 60 different undergraduate programs. Find yours here!
Experience Bridgewater
When you visit our campus, you’ll see exactly what makes Bridgewater such a special place.
