| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Barnard College is a prestigious private women's liberal arts college in New York City, affiliated with Columbia University. It was founded in 1889 as one of the first colleges to provide women with an education equivalent to that of men.
Location: Manhattan, New York City
Affiliation: Columbia University (students can take classes and use resources at both institutions)
Type: Private, women's liberal arts college
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective (~9–11%)
Student Population: Around 3,000 undergraduate students
Majors & Academics: Strong programs in humanities, social sciences, STEM, and the arts
Notable Programs:
Athena Center for Leadership
Science Pathways Scholars Program (SP)^2 for underrepresented students in STEM
Joint programs with Columbia University, Juilliard, and the Jewish Theological Seminary
Campus Life: Located in Morningside Heights, offering a mix of a close-knit campus and access to NYC
Athletics: Part of the Columbia-Barnard Athletic Consortium, allowing students to compete in NCAA Division I sports
Notable Alumni: Includes Zora Neale Hurston, Greta Gerwig, Martha Stewart, and Jhumpa Lahiri
1. Arts & Humanities
Art History
Dance
English
Film Studies
French & Francophone Studies
German Studies
History
Music
Philosophy
Religion
Spanish & Latin American Cultures
Theatre
Visual Arts
2. Social Sciences
Anthropology
Economics
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Urban Studies
Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies
3. Natural & Physical Sciences
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Neuroscience & Behavior
Physics & Astronomy
4. Mathematics & Computer Science
Computer Science (Offered in collaboration with Columbia)
Mathematics
Statistics & Data Science
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Art History |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Biological Sciences |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Computer Science (with Columbia University) |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Dance |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
English |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Film Studies |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
French & Francophone Studies |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
History |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Neuroscience & Behavior |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Physics & Astronomy |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Spanish & Latin American Cultures |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Statistics & Data Science |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Theatre |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Urban Studies |
4 years |
$65,524 |
|
Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies |
4 years |
$65,524 |
Graduate Program Name |
Partner Institution |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
4+1 Pathway: Master’s in Engineering |
Columbia University |
5 years (B.A. + M.S.) |
~$65,524 (Barnard) + Columbia Grad Tuition |
|
Master’s in Public Health (MPH) |
Columbia Mailman School |
5 years (B.A. + M.P.H.) |
~$65,524 (Barnard) + Columbia Grad Tuition |
|
Master’s in International & Public Affairs |
Columbia SIPA |
5 years (B.A. + M.I.A./M.P.A.) |
~$65,524 (Barnard) + Columbia Grad Tuition |
|
Master’s in Business (MBA) |
Columbia Business School |
N/A |
Columbia Grad Tuition (~$85,000/year) |
|
Master’s in Jewish Studies |
Jewish Theological Seminary |
5 years (B.A. + M.A.) |
~$65,524 (Barnard) + JTS Grad Tuition |
|
Master’s in Social Work (MSW) |
Columbia School of Social Work |
5 years (B.A. + M.S.W.) |
~$65,524 (Barnard) + Columbia Grad Tuition |
Prestigious Education: One of the top-ranked women’s colleges in the U.S.
Access to Columbia University: Take classes and use facilities at Columbia.
Diverse Community: Students from over 50+ countries.
NYC Location: Opportunities for internships, networking, and cultural experiences.
Need-Based Financial Aid: Barnard offers financial aid to international students (but does not provide merit scholarships).
International applicants follow the same admissions process as U.S. students but must also meet English proficiency and visa requirements.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Application Platform |
Common Application or Coalition Application |
|
Application Fee |
$75 (Fee waivers available) |
|
High School Transcripts |
Must be officially translated if not in English |
|
Standardized Tests (Optional) |
SAT/ACT (Barnard is test-optional through 2026) |
|
English Proficiency |
TOEFL (100+), IELTS (7.5+), or Duolingo (130+) if English is not your first language |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Two teacher recommendations + one counselor recommendation |
|
Essay & Supplemental Questions |
Required |
|
Financial Documents (if applying for aid) |
CSS Profile & proof of financial support |
International students pay the same tuition as U.S. students.
Expense |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Tuition & Fees |
~$65,524 |
|
Room & Board |
~$20,000 |
|
Books & Supplies |
~$1,150 |
|
Health Insurance |
~$3,900 |
|
Personal Expenses |
~$2,000 |
|
Total Estimated Cost |
~$92,500 per year |
Financial Aid: Barnard is one of the few liberal arts colleges that offer need-based financial aid to international students.
Barnard offers only need-based financial aid (no merit-based scholarships).
International students must apply for financial aid at the time of admission—they cannot apply later.
Financial aid includes grants, work-study, and loans.
Aid decisions are need-aware, meaning financial need may impact admission.
Once admitted, international students must apply for an F-1 student visa.
Barnard provides an I-20 form for the visa process.
Students must show proof of financial support for at least one year of study.
The International Student Services (ISS) office assists with visa, work permits, and adjusting to life in the U.S.
Barnard provides various resources to help international students adjust and succeed:
International Student Services (ISS): Supports visa and immigration needs.
English Language Support: Writing and tutoring services.
Clubs & Organizations: International Student Club, Global Ambassadors Program, cultural organizations.
Housing: Guaranteed on-campus housing.
Career Services: Helps with internships, job placements, and Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 visa holders.
Barnard offers two admission plans:
Admission Plan |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision (ED) |
November 1 |
Mid-December |
|
Regular Decision (RD) |
January 1 |
Late March |
Early Decision (ED) is binding—if admitted, you must attend Barnard.
Regular Decision (RD) is non-binding, allowing students to compare offers.
Barnard accepts applications through:
Common Application (Common App)
Coalition Application (via Scoir)
Barnard does NOT accept the UCAS or other regional applications.
Required Documents |
Details |
|---|---|
|
High School Transcript |
Official transcripts (translated if not in English) |
|
School Report |
Submitted by your high school counselor |
|
Two Teacher Recommendations |
From teachers in core academic subjects |
|
Counselor Recommendation |
Required from your school counselor |
|
Personal Statement |
Common App essay (650 words max) |
|
Barnard-Specific Writing Questions |
Short-answer questions (e.g., “Why Barnard?”) |
|
Standardized Test Scores (Optional) |
SAT/ACT (if submitted, Barnard considers them) |
|
English Proficiency Test (If Required) |
TOEFL (100+), IELTS (7.5+), Duolingo (130+) |
|
Application Fee |
$75 (Fee waivers available) |
Test-Optional Policy: SAT/ACT scores are optional through 2026. If submitted, they are considered as part of the holistic review.
Barnard requires additional short-answer writing prompts (updated yearly).
Examples from previous years:
Why Barnard? (300 words)
Describe a woman in history or fiction you admire. (250 words)
What factors shaped your identity? (250 words)
Tip: Be personal, reflective, and authentic!
Barnard offers optional interviews for applicants.
Conducted by Barnard alumnae (not admissions officers).
Helps demonstrate interest and provide a personal touch to your application.
Tip: Interviews are NOT required but are highly encouraged!
Barnard offers need-based financial aid (no merit scholarships).
Financial aid applications are due the same day as your admission application.
For U.S. Students |
For International Students |
|---|---|
|
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) |
CSS Profile |
|
CSS Profile |
Proof of Financial Support (Bank statements, etc.) |
|
Tax Documents |
Tax Documents (if applicable) |
Barnard is need-aware for international students, meaning your financial need may impact admission.
Early Decision Applicants: If admitted, must enroll and withdraw other applications.
Regular Decision Applicants: If admitted, must confirm enrollment by May 1.
Deferred or Waitlisted? You can submit an update letter, additional recommendations, or new achievements.
HEOP (Higher Education Opportunity Program): For low-income, high-achieving students from New York State.
Science Pathways Scholars Program (SP)^2: For students underrepresented in STEM fields.
Joint Programs with Columbia University, Juilliard, & Jewish Theological Seminary: Special application procedures may apply.
Same application process, with additional requirements:
Proof of English Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo)
Student Visa (F-1) Process After Admission
Financial Documents for I-20 Visa Form
Barnard’s International Student Services (ISS) helps with visas, housing, and transition support.
Admission Plan |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification |
Enrollment Confirmation |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision (ED) |
November 1 |
Mid-December |
Binding – Must enroll if accepted |
|
Regular Decision (RD) |
January 1 |
Late March |
May 1 |
Early Decision (ED) is binding, meaning if accepted, students must attend Barnard and withdraw all other applications.
Regular Decision (RD) is non-binding, allowing students to compare multiple offers before choosing.
No Spring or Summer Intake—Barnard only admits students for Fall.
Barnard looks for students with strong academic backgrounds and a rigorous high school curriculum.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
High School GPA |
Competitive applicants usually have a GPA of 3.8 – 4.0 (unweighted) |
|
Recommended Coursework |
4 years of English, 4 years of Math, 3-4 years of Science, 3-4 years of Social Studies, 3-4 years of a Foreign Language |
|
Standardized Tests (Optional) |
SAT/ACT are optional through 2026 |
|
SAT Score (if submitted) |
Typically 1450–1550 for admitted students |
|
ACT Score (if submitted) |
Typically 32–35 for admitted students |
Note: If SAT/ACT scores are strong, they can enhance an application but are not required.
International students must demonstrate English proficiency if their primary language is not English.
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL iBT |
100+ |
|
IELTS |
7.5+ |
|
Duolingo (DET) |
130+ |
Exemptions: Students who have attended an English-medium high school for 4+ years may be exempt.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Common App or Coalition App |
Required for all applicants |
|
High School Transcripts |
Official, translated if not in English |
|
School Report & Counselor Recommendation |
Submitted by high school counselor |
|
Two Teacher Recommendations |
From core academic subjects (Math, Science, English, etc.) |
|
Personal Statement (Essay) |
Required (650 words max) |
|
Barnard-Specific Supplemental Essays |
2-3 short answer prompts |
|
Application Fee |
$75 (Fee waivers available) |
|
Financial Aid Application (if applying) |
CSS Profile (for all students) + FAFSA (for U.S. students only) |
Tip: Strong extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and a passion for Barnard’s mission can significantly boost chances of admission.
Ranking Source |
Barnard College Ranking |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not individually ranked (Barnard is affiliated with Columbia University, which is ranked globally) |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
#17 in National Liberal Arts Colleges |
|
U.S. News & World Report (Best Value Schools) |
Top 30 |
|
U.S. News & World Report (Best Undergraduate Teaching) |
Top 25 |
|
Forbes (Top Colleges in the U.S.) |
Top 50 |
|
Times Higher Education (U.S. College Rankings) |
Top 100 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount |
Application Requirement |
Renewable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Barnard College Grant |
Need-based; determined by FAFSA & CSS Profile |
(based on need) |
FAFSA & CSS Profile submission |
Yes |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Limited merit scholarships available |
N/A |
Automatic consideration |
Yes |
|
Barnard Opportunity Program (BOP) |
First-generation/low-income students |
Covers tuition, fees, and stipend |
Special application required |
Yes |
|
HEOP (Arthur O. Eve Program) |
New York residents with academic & financial need |
Covers tuition, fees, and stipend |
Special application required |
Yes |
|
Outside Scholarships |
external organizations |
N/A |
Separate applications required |
N/A |
Category |
Details |
Cost (2024-2025) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
New York City, adjacent to Columbia University |
N/A |
|
Residential Requirement |
Mandatory for first-year & sophomore students |
N/A |
|
Housing Options |
Traditional dorms, suite-style, & apartment-style |
N/A |
|
Residence Halls |
Brooks, Reid, Hewitt, Sulzberger, 600 W 116th, Plimpton, Cathedral Gardens, etc. |
N/A |
|
Room Types |
Singles, doubles, suites, & apartments |
N/A |
|
Amenities |
Fully furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, lounges, kitchens, laundry facilities, study spaces |
N/A |
|
Dining Plan |
Mandatory for residents; multiple meal plans available |
Included in board fees |
|
Security |
24/7 security, keycard access, on-campus patrols |
N/A |
|
Cost of Housing & Meals |
Includes room & meal plan |
$19,440 per year |
Barnard fosters a close-knit community of ambitious and intellectually curious students. The campus environment is inclusive, empowering, and socially engaged, with a strong emphasis on leadership and activism. Since Barnard is affiliated with Columbia University, students have access to shared courses, extracurricular activities, and social events with Columbia students.
With over 100 student clubs and organizations, there’s something for everyone. Some popular clubs include:
Student Government Association (SGA) – Represents student interests and organizes events.
McIntosh Activities Council (McAC) – Plans campus-wide activities like concerts and movie nights.
Athena Center for Leadership – Provides leadership development programs and mentorship.
Cultural & Identity Groups – Such as the Black Student Organization, Latinx organizations, and LGBTQ+ groups.
Performing Arts & Media – Including dance teams, theater groups, and Barnard’s student-run publications.
Barnard students compete in NCAA Division I sports through Columbia University’s athletics program. Additionally, the college has fitness centers, yoga classes, and intramural sports to encourage student wellness.
First-year and sophomore students are required to live on campus, while juniors and seniors can choose to stay in dorms or find off-campus housing. The residence halls are comfortable and offer a variety of social and study spaces, making it easy to form friendships.
Located in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Barnard students take full advantage of New York City’s museums, theaters, restaurants, and networking opportunities. Internships are a big part of student life, with many students working at major companies, media outlets, nonprofits, and research institutions while studying.
Barnard has a number of beloved traditions, including:
Big Sub – A giant sandwich (literally) that stretches across campus for students to enjoy.
Midnight Breakfast – A fun event before finals where faculty and staff serve students late-night snacks.
Spirit Day – A campus-wide celebration of school pride with games, music, and performances.
Internships: Over 90% of Barnard students complete at least one internship before graduating, often in New York City’s top industries, including finance, media, fashion, healthcare, and technology.
Job Placement Rate: Within six months of graduation, approximately 90% of Barnard graduates are employed, in graduate school, or engaged in fellowships/research.
Top Employers: Graduates find jobs at companies like Goldman Sachs, Google, The New York Times, JP Morgan, McKinsey & Company, NBCUniversal, and The UN.
Barnard students are highly competitive for top graduate programs. Many go on to study at institutions like Harvard, Columbia, Yale, Stanford, and MIT in fields such as law, medicine, business, and the humanities.
One-on-One Career Advising: Helps students with resume building, interview preparation, and job searches.
Networking & Mentorship: Connections with over 40,000 Barnard alumnae in various industries.
Recruitment Events & Career Fairs: Brings employers from top companies for direct hiring.
Funding for Internships & Research: Financial support is available for unpaid internships, making it easier for students to gain experience.
Finance & Consulting (Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, McKinsey)
Media & Communications (The New York Times, NBC, Vogue)
Technology & Engineering (Google, Microsoft, Meta)
Law & Public Policy (ACLU, U.S. State Department)
Healthcare & Research (Columbia Medical School, NYU Langone, Pfizer)
Average Starting Salary: ~$70,000–$90,000 per year (varies by industry).
STEM & Finance Jobs tend to offer the highest starting salaries, while media and nonprofit roles may start lower but provide long-term career growth.
Barnard College is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 6-7% in recent years.
Admission Statistics (Class of 2027)
Total Applicants: ~11,803
Admitted Students: ~6-7% acceptance rate
Early Decision Acceptance Rate: ~20-25% (higher than Regular Decision)
Factors Affecting Admission
Barnard follows a holistic admissions process, considering:
Academic Performance (GPA, class rank, course rigor)
Standardized Test Scores (Barnard is test-optional, but strong SAT/ACT scores can help)
Essays & Personal Statement (Very important!)
Extracurricular Activities (Leadership, impact, and involvement matter)
Letters of Recommendation (Strong endorsements from teachers & counselors)
Demonstrated Interest (Engaging with Barnard through visits, events, etc.)
Barnard College is located in New York City, specifically in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan.
