How We Give Full-Tuition Scholarships

At Berea College, we believe that no talented student should miss out on a high-quality education just because they cannot afford rising tuition costs. No Berea student is charged a dime of tuition for their four-year degree. How do we do it?

Unlike other colleges, Berea depends on endowment income for 74% of its yearly budget. Our strong endowment allows us to run the college without charging tuition. Another 15% of annual income comes from federal and state funding and miscellaneous income, while the final 11% of each year’s income comes from loyal alumni and friends such as you.

In addition to tuition scholarships, students receive financial support through Berea’s work program and through federal funding. Students work in on-campus jobs to earn money for room, board, and other personal costs. In fall 2011, 97% of Berea’s incoming freshmen were also eligible for federal Pell grants, provided to students from low-income backgrounds.

This model allows us to offer our students a low-cost or no-cost education year after year, but it also means that Berea doesn’t have the luxury of raising tuition when things get tough. Instead, we make thoughtful decisions about the most efficient way to operate the College every year. This ensures that our students have access to the opportunities they deserve.