We’re looking for students with grit, determination and financial need. Students ready to take on a rigorous, top-ranked liberal arts education and turn it into a rewarding career. Students willing to work, to grow, and to expand their horizons through diversity. And students who want to join a community of support that is invested in their success.
Is this you? Learn more about what Berea College has to offer.
The Berea Difference
We are one of Kentucky's most selective colleges.
The national average for student loan debt is $35,000.
No Tuition
$0. That’s how much 1,454 Berea College students paid for tuition last year. Berea College believes your income shouldn’t limit your outcome, which is why we have not charged students tuition since 1892.
Academics
Recognized among America’s top schools, Berea College combines academic rigor with a diverse and supportive learning community. Berea College offers majors in more than 33 fields of study that can lead to Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and/or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees. Don’t see your exact major? An Independent Major option is available to students who want to pursue a customized field of study that isn’t already an established major program. Explore what Berea has to offer!
Supportive Environment
We're in this together
Nationally, just 21 percent of first generation and economically disadvantaged students graduate college within six years. At Berea, our graduation rate for these groups is three times as high.
Why?
It’s because we know that just selecting you for admission is not enough. Low-income students face pressures and life situations that wealthier students do not. Because of that, Berea College has developed programming to help students transition into college, through college, and out into a career after college. It helps, too, that all of our students are in the same financial boat, meaning nobody is alone here.
Learn more about the ways Berea College supports students and fosters belonging throughout the college experience.
Opportunities
We encourage our students to explore opportunities that will make their four years unforgettable—from studying abroad, to paid internships and labor positions that explore their range of interests.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
A Diverse Experience
It's important that we continue the legacy of the South's first interracial and co-educational college
Our students come from 45 states, 1 U.S. Territory and 70 countries.
Most Berea students will be the first in their families to earn a four-year college degree
Diversity is in our DNA
Since 1855, Berea College has believed in the power of education to transform students and employees from all walks of life. The College was the first interracial, co-educational institution established in the South. Founded by ardent abolitionist, John G. Fee, the institution of Berea firmly believes that, “God has made of one blood all peoples of the earth.” This is the motto of the school.
Many former and current students will tell you their experience with diversity at Berea shaped them in several ways. It has made them better students, leaders, and people.
Student Voices
Students answer your questions.
Labor Program
Berea College hires every student to work campus jobs that enhance their education while preparing them for life after college. When our students enter the professional world, the experience they have gained in the labor program gives them an advantage over graduates from other schools. Learn more about the program.
Novelist Alix Harrow ‘09 is the youngest woman in the history of the Hugo Awards to be nominated for best novel.
Life at Berea
Berea College offers a collaborative learning environment where faculty, staff and students grow as individuals and as a community.
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Berea is a place where art, crafts, music and the imagination thrive. We support a wealth of local eateries, and the area is a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts—including biking, hiking, kayaking and more.
On campus, we offer engaging programs, athletics, and 60+ active recognized organizations and clubs.
Explore everything that Berea has to offer!
Contact Us
Berea College | 209 Chestnut St. | Haaga House | CPO 2220 | Berea, KY 40404 | 800-326-5948 | askadmissions@berea.edu