Apply as a First Year Student
| Important Dates | Early Action I | Early Action II | Regular |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Deadline | November 1 | January 31 | March 31 |
| Decision Notification | Mid to Late December | Mid to Late February | April |
| Deposit Due | May 1 | May 1 | May 1 |
Our mission and size are such that we can consider every aspect of each prospective student’s personal journey, their perseverance, their commitment to self and others, and ability to take advantage of every opportunity that Berea can offer. When we review your application, we’ll consider more than just numbers on a piece of paper—we will consider the person you are and hope to become.
Required Checklist Components
We have no interest in making your application process to Berea difficult. Our streamlined application and checklist are the basic requirements.
Request an official copy of your most recent transcript or GED results. Home school students who don’t have a transcript should complete the Home School Supplement form.
Applicants will be required to submit the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov when it becomes available. Berea’s FAFSA code is 001955.
Students who believe their scores are an accurate representation of their ability should submit them. Learn more about test optional admissions or submit official test scores via your portal.
Optional Application Electives
Students often tell us their life experience is so meaningful that we can’t get to know them without it. Your story and identity matter in our holistic and selective admissions process. Use the elective items to share your story.
At any time before we make a decision about your application, schedule a time for us to get to know you better. Most chats last about 10-15 minutes. Login to your portal to find your assigned staff member and connect with them.
In less than 5 minutes, you’ll select a variety of statements which best describe you and your personal story. Complete this elective by logging into your portal.
We are happy to hear from teachers, coaches, mentors, and others who are willing to share about you. Submit a Recommendation Form by logging into your portal or by sharing this direct link: www.berea.college/recommend
Berea College was created 169 years ago and became the first interracial and coeducational college in the South. Please tell us in 169-ish words or less, how this is meaningful for you in context of your personal experience. Complete this elective in your portal.
Check back soon for Fall 2025 prompts. Upload this elective by logging into your portal.
We want to learn about your individual experiences, perspectives and creativity. Share these with us by uploading your selected written, video or graphic submission to your portal. Examples include but are not limited to: creative writing samples, art portfolio, music performance, etc.
Share with us your awards, community service, extracurricular activities, and work experience. This is your chance to brag about yourself. Submit this elective in any desired format by logging into your portal.