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 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 2009
Bard College Conservatory of Music	Regular, Early Action, Transfer, and IDP options
Bard Program in Economics and Finance	January 15
Graduate Programs	see individual program dates

In addition, the following application options are available to qualified applicants: Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP); Early Admission; Advanced Standing; Special Requirements for Homeschooled Students.

Interviews

Interviews are not required for admission but they are available to applicants. To request an interview, contact the admission office at (845) 758-7472 or email admission@bard.edu. Candidates must submit the application along with the application fee, or approved fee waiver, prior to or at the time of the interview. Early Action interviews are available until November 1. Regular admission interviews are available until December 18. Off-campus interviews may be offered by admission staff at several sites. Please refer to our Bard on the Road webpage for further information. Phone and alumni/ae interviews are not available.