Higher education has long been perceived as an expensive endeavor, particularly for international students aspiring to study in the United States.
However, there is one exceptional institution that defies this norm and stands out as a beacon of hope for countless students around the world.
Berea College, located in Berea, Kentucky, has garnered acclaim for its unwavering commitment to providing a life-changing education through full scholarships to all admitted international students.
This unique approach has made Berea College a symbol of inclusivity, social responsibility, and global education.
What's Covered in This Article
History and Mission
Berea College was established in 1855 by abolitionists and Christian ministers with the vision of providing accessible education to both black and white students in the racially segregated South.
The college remained steadfast in its commitment to inclusivity, becoming one of the first integrated institutions in the region.
Today, the college’s mission centers around offering high-quality education to students who have limited financial resources, with a particular emphasis on promoting the values of interracial and intercultural cooperation.
Full Scholarship for International Students
One of the most remarkable aspects of Berea College is its pledge to provide a full-tuition scholarship to every admitted international student.
Unlike most colleges and universities in the United States, Berea covers the entire cost of tuition, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede any student’s access to education.
This approach significantly eases the financial burden for international students and opens the doors of higher education to deserving individuals from all corners of the globe.
Eligibility and Selection Process
Berea College’s commitment to offering full scholarships to international students comes with certain eligibility criteria and a competitive selection process.
Prospective international students must meet the admission requirements and demonstrate a strong academic record, leadership potential, and a passion for community service.
Additionally, candidates must show a genuine financial need to be considered for the scholarship.
Upon meeting these criteria, students are invited to apply for admission and scholarship consideration.
The selection process involves a comprehensive evaluation of each applicant’s academic achievements, personal accomplishments, and their potential to contribute positively to the campus community.
The holistic approach to selection ensures that the brightest and most diverse minds find a place at Berea College.
Work-Study Program and Commitment to Service
Apart from the full-tuition scholarship, Berea College expects students, both domestic and international, to actively participate in its distinctive work-study program.
As part of the program, students are provided with on-campus jobs to cover expenses like housing, meals, and other personal costs.
This commitment to work-study allows students to gain valuable work experience while fostering a sense of responsibility and self-reliance.
Berea College is renowned for its focus on community service and encourages all students to engage in service activities.
The college believes that by actively serving the community, students develop a sense of social responsibility and empathy, shaping them into compassionate leaders with a deep understanding of the world’s challenges.
Impact and Global Reach
The impact of Berea College’s full-scholarship initiative extends far beyond its campus grounds.
By welcoming students from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, the college creates a vibrant and inclusive learning environment that fosters cross-cultural understanding and cooperation. Graduates of Berea College go on to become global citizens, working towards positive change in their communities and countries.
What is the Berea College scholarship 2023 2024?
The Berea College Scholarships 2023/2024 is a fully-funded scholarship the college offers to international students for the first year.
In subsequent years, students are expected to save $1,000 (US) per year to contribute toward their expenses.
Does Berea College give full scholarship for international students?
Berea College is known for its commitment to providing full-tuition scholarships to admitted international students. Berea College’s mission is to offer accessible education to students with limited financial resources, and this includes international students.
Berea College is one of the few institutions in the United States that provides full-tuition scholarships to all admitted students, regardless of their nationality. This means that international students who are accepted to Berea College will have their full tuition costs covered, making it a highly attractive option for those seeking affordable higher education in the United States.
However, keep in mind that scholarship policies and offerings can change over time. To ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding Berea College’s scholarship programs for international students, I recommend visiting their official website or contacting the college’s admissions or financial aid office directly. They will be able to provide you with the latest details on scholarship opportunities and application requirements for international students.
How to apply for Berea College scholarships for international students?
Applying for Berea College scholarships for international students involves a multi-step process that requires careful attention to deadlines and submission requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process:
- Research Scholarship Opportunities: Before applying, familiarize yourself with the available scholarships at Berea College for international students. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the scholarships you are interested in. Visit the official Berea College website, specifically the section dedicated to international admissions and financial aid, to gather all the necessary information.
- Complete the Admission Application: To be considered for any scholarship at Berea College, you must first apply for admission. The application process includes submitting your academic records, standardized test scores (if applicable), English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The application form and detailed instructions can be found on the college’s official website.
- Demonstrate Financial Need: As part of the scholarship application process, you’ll need to demonstrate financial need. Prepare financial documents such as tax returns, bank statements, and any other relevant documents that illustrate your family’s financial situation. Berea College’s full-tuition scholarship is specifically geared towards students with limited financial resources, so this step is critical.
- Submit the CSS Profile (if applicable): Berea College may require international students to submit the CSS Profile, which is a financial aid application provided by the College Board. This form assesses your financial need and helps the college determine your eligibility for need-based aid.
- Explore External Scholarships: Berea College encourages international students to seek additional scholarships from external sources to help cover expenses beyond tuition. These external scholarships can be valuable in supplementing your financial resources during your studies at Berea.
- Apply Early: Berea College has specific application deadlines for both admissions and scholarships. It is essential to apply early to ensure you meet all the requirements and don’t miss out on any opportunities.
- Submit Documents and Stay Informed: Make sure to submit all required documents promptly. Keep track of your application status and any communications from the college. Regularly check your email for updates and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
- Participate in Interviews (if necessary): Depending on the scholarship you are applying for, you may be required to participate in interviews, either in person or via video conference. Prepare for the interview by researching Berea College, understanding its mission, and highlighting your academic achievements and extracurricular activities.
- Await Scholarship Notification: After submitting all necessary documents and completing any interviews, wait for the scholarship decision. Berea College will notify you of your scholarship status, and if awarded, the details of the scholarship package.
- Confirm Acceptance: Once you receive the scholarship offer, carefully review the terms and conditions. If you accept the scholarship, follow the instructions provided by the college to secure your spot at Berea College.
Remember, the application process may vary slightly for different scholarship programs, so it’s essential to thoroughly read the instructions for each scholarship you’re interested in. By following these steps and meeting all requirements, you can increase your chances of receiving a scholarship to pursue your education at Berea College.
Apply to Berea College as an International Student
Berea College has a long history of welcoming all peoples of the earth. Admission to Berea College is competitive, and students are encouraged to read all information provided here before submitting an application. The International application opens August 2023.
| Important Dates | Early Action I | Regular |
|---|---|---|
| Application Deadline | October 15 | January 15 |
| Decision Notification | mid-December | mid-March |
| Deposit Due | February 15 | May 1 |
The following items are required to complete an application for admission. All materials should be submitted via the online application portal.
1. Apply for Free Online
Complete the Berea College Application for Admission for International Students. There is no application fee.
2. Personal Essay
The essay should be 2-5 pages. As this essay may be used to assist in course placement, students should receive no assistance in writing or editing the essay.
The essay should address the following points: 1. An overview of your educational and life experiences; 2. What you plan to do after completing your education; 3. Why you wish to return (or not return) to your home country; 4. Description of ways you have positively impacted your community. Because the content of the essay is an important part of evaluating a student for admission, it is to your advantage to add detail.
The essay may be uploaded to your application portal once you have submitted the online application above.
3. Copy of official secondary school records
These documents may include leaving exam results, A-Level results, O-Level results, National Higher Diploma results, or West African Examination results. Please provide academic records that demonstrate you have completed all secondary school requirements for your home country. Academic records should be translated into English and the copies certified by school officials.
4. One Teacher Recommendation Form
Whenever possible, you should request that person writing a recommendation on your behalf submit the official form provided via the online application portal. You may also download the form here and upload the completed form to your online application portal. We will accept written recommendations, preferably typed, which are not completed using our official form. All recommendations should be written in English.
5. Financial Resource Recommendation Form
This form should be completed by a school administrator, employer, religious leader, or another individual who can make a statement about your personal and financial resources, as well as barriers, as they relate to your pursuit of higher education. This form may NOT be completed by a close relative. The Financial Resource Recommendation Form should be written in English.
6. Official Test Scores
All international applicants must submit a report from one of the following exams: IELTS, Duolingo, TOEFL, SAT or ACT. This requirement includes students from English-speaking countries. You must provide a copy of your test report as part of your online application, even if you have requested an official copy be sent to Berea from the testing center. International applicants may NOT apply test-optional.
7. International Financial Questionnaire
All applicants must submit the questionnaire via their online application portal. We will not accept the CSS Profile or ISFSAA in lieu of the Berea College form.
Additional Information
- Costs and Financial Aid
- Previous International Applicants: If you have previously applied to Berea and wish to apply again, a new online application must be submitted, including all supporting materials (test scores, transcripts, recommendations, etc.). Please be sure to tell us of any college or university coursework you are currently pursuing or have completed since your last application.
