Barnard Acceptance Rate | Learn.org

Barnard College, located in New York City, was founded in 1889. Barnard College served as the women's undergraduate school under Columbia University, but it has its own admissions and curriculum guidelines.

Up until the 1980s, Columbia only allowed men to be admitted to undergraduate programs, and Barnard College provided an opportunity for women to pursue higher education at a Columbia University school.

Barnard College is a highly selective school with an acceptance rate of about 9%.

What Is the Acceptance Rate at Barnard College?

U.S. News and World Report recognizes the school as a highly selective school with an acceptance rate of 9%.

This low acceptance rate is influenced by multiple factors, including strict consideration given to high school GPA, class rank, and standardized test scores.

The school also has a rigorous commitment to its mission and makes admissions decisions based on how well applicants align with the school's beliefs.

Barnard College Admissions Requirements

Barnard College is a member of a network of women's colleges called The Seven Sisters. These schools, in addition to many standard admissions requirements, have rules regarding acceptance and gender.

According to Barnard College's official policy, students must 'consistently live and identify as women, regardless of the gender assigned to them at birth'.

Other admission requirements include:

• Barnard Writing Supplement, this essay is required regardless of the application method a student uses.
• Standardized Test Scores: Barnard accepts both SAT scores and ACT scores for consideration, but students only need to submit one of the two. Barnard Colleg has extended its COVID-based temporary test-optional policy to include students applying for the 2024-2025 academic year. It's still recommended to submit test scores for consideration if you have them.
• Two letters of recommendation from teachers and one from a high school guidance counselor.
• $75 application fee, or a waiver from Common Application, NACAC, SAT, or ACT based on financial hardship.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other proof of English proficiency for international students or students from a school that doesn't use English as a primary language for teaching.
• Official high school transcripts (and college transcripts if transferring).

How To Apply at Barnard College

The application process at Barnard College can be performed either through Common Application or Questbridge, but students pursuing different types of enrollment will need to check the application deadlines.

Early-decision acceptance college students will need to have all of their relevant application documents submitted by November 1.

Regular decision students will need to have their Barnard College application submitted by January 3.

However, both types of college students will have supplementary dates associated with application materials.

• Step 1: Fill out your application through Common Application or Questbridge. This is also when you will submit your Barnard College Writing Supplement
• Step 2: Students will need to submit their two letters of recommendation from teachers and their letter from their guidance counselor
• Step 3: Your school's guidance counselor will submit 1st quarter/trimester or mid-year grades when they are available on your behalf.

Tips for Applying to Barnard College

Students trying to join the Barnard community can support the application with optional application documents.

• Although students are only required to have 3 letters of recommendation, some students see benefits with additional letters highlighting extracurricular activities
• Adding additional information such as class rank and factors that could have impacted academic performance
• Auditions and portfolios can also be included, but are not required regardless of major or degree program

FAQs About Getting into Barnard College

Because Barnard College is such a selective school, many applicants pursuing enrollment have questions about the application and admissions process.

What Is the Cost of Tuition at Barnard College?

The cost of tuition at Barnard College is $64,078, before fees and other expenses. Barnard College estimates that the average yearly required budget for admitted students is $90,928.

Barnard students should fill out their FAFSA forms and learn more about the financial aid opportunities they qualify for. Barnard College also provides need-based grants to low-income students.

What Is the Graduation Rate at Barnard College?

The 6-year graduation rate for students pursuing a bachelor's degree at Barnard is 92%, compared to the 64% national average.

Does Barnard College Prefer the SAT or ACT?

Barnard College accepts both ACT scores and SAT scores, with no preference given to either. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, Barnard adopted a temporary test-optional policy that has recently been extended to include students applying for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Can I Get a Refund on My Application Fee?

No, the $75 application fee is non-refundable. However, the fee can be waived for low-income students using relevant waivers that prove financial hardship and need.

Can I Get Into Barnard College With a Low GPA?

Although Barnard College doesn't have a minimum GPA requirement for admissions, getting into the college with a low GPA will be difficult. The school strictly examines the academic performance of high school students and puts priority on students who not only have high high school rankings but also students who had a rigorous course load and still graduated with high GPAs.