Overview
Barnard College is a extremely selective private four-year institution in New York, New York. The school accepts 8.8% of applicants and enrolls 3,219 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 8.8%
- Average SAT
- 1,495
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,440–1,550
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 3,219
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Barnard's admissions officers want to see how you'll contribute to a community that has been cultivating women leaders since 1889. Your essays should demonstrate genuine interest in women's education and leadership, not just mention it as an afterthought because you're applying to a women's college.
Unlike other highly selective liberal arts colleges, Barnard offers the intimacy of a small women's college within Columbia University's resources. You can take classes at Columbia, join clubs there, and access research opportunities, but your home base remains Barnard's close-knit community. Reference specific Barnard professors, research centers like the Athena Center for Leadership Studies, or traditions like Midnight Breakfast during finals week to show you understand this dual identity.
Don't treat Barnard as a backdoor to Columbia. The admissions committee can spot this approach immediately, and it will hurt your chances. Barnard has its own distinct academic programs, including the acclaimed dance department and the interdisciplinary approach that allows you to design concentrations across departments. If you're interested in their strong economics program or the psychology department's research opportunities, mention these specifically.
Your essays should reflect familiarity with Barnard's academic philosophy of empowering women through rigorous liberal arts education. The college wants students who will engage with feminist scholarship and social justice issues, not those who simply want a strong degree. Reference specific courses like "Women and Politics" or the First-Year Writing program's focus on critical thinking and argumentation.
Barnard offers binding Early Decision, which provides a significant advantage given the school's selectivity. The application includes Barnard-specific supplements asking about your interest in attending a women's college and your academic interests. These essays require genuine reflection on how attending a historically women's institution aligns with your goals.
Don't underestimate the importance of demonstrating leadership experience. Barnard graduates include CEOs, politicians, and changemakers, and the admissions office looks for students who have already begun developing leadership skills in high school through meaningful roles, not just titles.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $39,253/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $66,246
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 92.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $80,516/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 96.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Barnard College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Barnard has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
Does Barnard College offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Barnard offers Early Decision I (deadline November 15) and Early Decision II (deadline January 1). Both are binding commitments, meaning accepted students must enroll.
Can transfer students apply to Barnard College?
Yes, Barnard accepts transfer applications for fall and spring semesters. Transfer students must complete at least two years of coursework at Barnard to earn their degree.
What is the relationship between Barnard College and Columbia University?
Barnard is an independent college affiliated with Columbia University. Students can cross-register for classes at Columbia and participate in many joint programs while earning a Barnard degree.