Overview
Berry College is a less selective private four-year institution in Mount Berry, Georgia. The school accepts 66.3% of applicants and enrolls 2,213 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 66.3%
- Average SAT
- 1,200
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,110–1,290
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 25
- Total Enrollment
- 2,213
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
Berry College operates on rolling admissions, so submit your application early in the fall for the best chance at merit scholarships and housing preferences. The college awards substantial merit aid based on your academic profile, but these funds get distributed throughout the year until they run out.
Your application should highlight hands-on experience and leadership outside the classroom. Berry owns 27,000 acres of campus, and the college expects you to take advantage of outdoor recreation, the working farm, and conservation programs. If you have experience with animals, farming, environmental work, or outdoor leadership, make that central to your essays. The Student Work Program lets every student earn money through campus jobs, from working in the dairy to maintaining trails.
The nursing program stands out as particularly competitive and well-regarded, requiring a separate application process once you're enrolled. If you're interested in nursing, mention specific clinical experiences or healthcare volunteering in your application. The education program also has strong regional connections, so highlight any tutoring, camp counseling, or work with children.
Berry attracts students who want a small college feel with big outdoor opportunities. You'll find classmates who hike the mountain trails between classes, participate in intramural sports, and get involved in campus traditions like Mountain Day. The student body skews conservative and Southern, though you'll find students from across the country drawn by the unique campus and strong financial aid.
Don't write generic essays about loving nature. Instead, connect specific outdoor experiences to your academic goals or personal growth. If you've never been to Georgia, research the Appalachian region and explain why Berry's location appeals to you beyond just "beautiful scenery." The college wants students who will use the campus as an extended classroom, not just admire it from their dorm window.
Visit campus if possible, especially during the academic year when you can see the working aspects of the college in action. The admissions office tracks demonstrated interest, and a visit shows you understand what makes Berry different from other small liberal arts colleges.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $21,568/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $40,416
- Students Receiving Aid
- 24%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 73.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $53,800/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Berry College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Berry College is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit standardized test scores with your application.
What is the application deadline for Berry College?
Berry College has rolling admissions, so applications are reviewed as they are received. Students are encouraged to apply early for the best consideration for merit scholarships.
Does Berry College offer early decision or early action?
Berry College offers early action with a December 1 deadline. This is non-binding, meaning you can still apply to other schools and compare financial aid offers.
How many transfer credits does Berry College accept?
Berry College accepts up to 64 credit hours from two-year institutions and up to 96 credit hours from four-year institutions. Transfer students must complete at least 30 credit hours at Berry to graduate.