Each year the Admission Office at Bard receives 10 times the number of applicants it can accept. So yes, competition is tough. Bard expects applicants to be proven, motivated students with an average GPA of 3.5 or above, who have taken Honors or AP courses where appropriate in a curriculum that includes four years of English, social studies, mathematics, 3 (preferably 4) years of laboratory science, and 3-4 years of a foreign language.

While evidence of high achievement and motivation is essential, admission to Bard is not just about numbers. The College welcomes independent thinkers and looks closely at each applicant, carefully weighing all facets of the high school experience. Bard presents extraordinary opportunities for its students to thrive and achieve, and seeks students who will take full advantage of these opportunities.

Choosing the right college is a major commitment and should be based on informed consideration, not on media rankings, myths, or vague impressions picked up from friends. Look closely at all that Bard has to offer and make a decision based on our strengths, and on yours.

As for the admission process itself, there are many options. Candidates may apply to Bard's undergraduate program using either the Bard Application, the Common Application, or the Universal College Application through the following plans:

Method of Application	Deadlines
Regular Admission	January 15, notification by April 1
Early Action	November 1, notification by January 1
Transfer Students	fall semester, March 15; spring semester, November 1
Immediate Decision Plan (IDP)	November 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 2008
Bard College Conservatory of Music	Regular, Early Action, Transfer, and IDP options
Bard Program in Economics and Finance	January 15