Berea College

Berea, KY · Private · 1,513 undergrads

Admit rate: 19.3% (2,073 applicants)
SAT middle 50%: 1156–1335 (ACT 23–28)
Undergraduates: 1,513 (9.1% international)
Average net price: $6,106 (per year after aid)
Graduation rate: 58% (within 6 years)

Deadlines

Early Action: Nov. 1, 2026
Early Action II: Jan. 31, 2027
Regular Decision: March 31, 2027

Essays

Short Statement (optional elective) (About 170 words)

Berea College was created 170 years ago and became the first interracial and coeducational college in the South. Please tell us in 170-ish words or less, how this is meaningful for you in context of your personal experience.

Alumni Vibes (optional elective) (75 words)

Review eight alumni profiles and choose one person whose story, values, interests, or accomplishments resonate with you. In 75 words or less, tell us why you connected with this alum and how their journey relates to your own experiences, aspirations, or future goals.

Essay (optional elective) (No set limit; most students submit 500-750 words)

Please select one prompt and upload to your portal your final essay.

Editor's notes

Check the money first, then the grades. Berea admits only students with high financial need, and its estimator tells you in a minute whether your household is likely to qualify. If you're in the unlikely range, read the guidelines before you spend time on the electives.
Nothing beyond the application, FAFSA and transcript is required, but Berea calls the electives its official suggestions for standing out. Treat at least the essay and the short statement as part of your application. Berea says minor grammar slips won't be penalized, so put your effort into saying something true.
There's no binding round, so apply in Early Action I if you're ready by Nov. 1. All three plans share a May 1 reply date, and international applicants face a single Nov. 30 deadline with fewer than 40 places a year.