Admissions Events
Find your way to COA, on campus or online
College of the Atlantic
Take the opportunity to visit and connect
We offer a range of in-person and virtual events designed to help you explore our campus, academic approach, and community. Whether you’re a prospective student, an admitted student, or a college counselor, there’s an event here for you.
for prospective students
August
Overnight Campus Visit
Experience COA life firsthand with a two-night visit on the coast of Maine — stay in our newest sustainable residence hall, enjoy meals in the dining hall, take a student-led campus tour, have a one-on-one conversation with admissions staff, and explore vibrant Bar Harbor and nearby Acadia National Park. Whether you’re early in your college search or narrowing your list, this immersive visit gives you an authentic sense of community and place.
Registration coming soon!
- Two nights in one of our residences
- A campus tour with a current student
- Lunch in our dining hall on the day of the tour
- One-on-one conversation with our admission staff
- Time to explore Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
- 1 Single (1 person): $208.00
- 1 Double room (2 people): $226.00
- 1 Single and 1 double room (3 people): $434.00
- 2 Double rooms (4 people): $452.00
- 2 Double rooms and 1 single (5 people): $660.00
- 3 Double rooms (6 people): $678.00
Coming soon!
At least one guest in your party must be a current high school student or prospective transfer student. All guests will participate in the campus tour and lunch. Students under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Sorry, no pets in campus housing (please contact us about service animals).
You may cancel up to a week prior to your check-in date for a full refund, minus processing fees.
October
Fall Open House
Our Fall Open House is a signature in-person event designed to give prospective students and their families a comprehensive look at COA’s community, academics, and campus life. Held on October 13, 2025, you’ll tour campus, visit classes, enjoy meals in our highly praised dining hall, take a cruise on Frenchman Bay aboard our research vessel, and have conversations with faculty, students, and staff. Travel assistance may be available for eligible attendees; please contact admissions for details.
Registration: The event registration is now closed. We would still love to have you join us for our Fall Open House! Call 800-528-0025 to register over the phone.
View our tentative schedule to get a sense of what to expect
For high school juniors and seniors, prospective transfer students, and their families
800-528-0025 or email inquiry@coa.edu
If travel costs are hindering your ability to attend the Open House, you can request travel assistance funds. Please note that funding is limited.
January
Online Open House
If you can’t make it to Bar Harbor in person, join us for an Online Open House where current students and professors share insights on COA’s academics and student life and answer your questions in a relaxed, interactive Zoom setting. This low-pressure event brings COA right to you, no matter where you are.
- Monday, January 19 2026 at 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. ET
It’s on Zoom, so you can join from wherever you are; just be sure to make note of any difference in time zone.
More ways to engage
There’s even more happening beyond these events — including programs for admitted students, opportunities for counselors, and helpful info for planning your visit. Take a look below to make the most of your COA experience.
Events for admitted students
Winter/spring drop-in chats: Join informal virtual meetups with current students from February to April. Links are sent in your admissions emails.
Admitted Student Reception: Each April, we host an on-campus welcome event with deeper community engagement and online Q&A sessions.
If you’re admitted, check your email or the Admitted Students page for details.
Lodging & local information
Whether you’re attending an event or visiting on your own, Bar Harbor has plenty to explore.
Where to stay
- Many hotels and inns are located within a mile of campus, some just a 3-minute walk away!
- Mention COA when booking—some hotels may offer discounts.
Dining & activities
- We encourage you to join us for at least one meal in COA’s dining hall during your visit; but Bar Harbor also has a wide array of local restaurants and cafes!
- Experience the area by hiking, biking, or exploring in Acadia National Park, check out the Abbe Museum, or catch a movie at Reel Pizza Cinerama or a live event at the Criterion Theater.
- Check the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce for updated lodging, restaurant, and activity listings.
For college counselors
New england College Counselors’ Getaway
A three-day, immersive experience for high school counselors to explore COA’s campus, curriculum, and community.
- Dates: July 29 – August 1, 2026
- Cost: $100 program fee + travel (lodging and meals provided by COA)
- What’s included: Campus tour, faculty and student chats, meals in our dining hall, Summer Institute sessions, and downtime to explore Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor area.
- Apply today!
Contact us to be added to the invite list for 2027: 800-528-0025 or inquiry@coa.edu.
Plan your visit or register now
Ready to dive in? Email any questions to inquiry@coa.edu or call 800-528-0025. Explore visit options like scheduling a campus tour, or learn about online interviews.