Bard seeks to assist qualified students who might not be able to attend a private college because of the cost. Bard will meet 100% of the full demonstrated need (Tuition, Food and Housing, First Year Academic Programming if applicable and Required Fees) for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens* admitted in the early rounds (Early Action I and Early Decision I). The College makes every effort to meet demonstrated need, no matter which application option students choose. In recent years, almost 70% of all Bard students have received financial support from the College.
A student’s financial need is calculated after their family contribution, federal student loans, federal grants, outside grants, scholarships, and work study eligibility are considered. Once a student's need is calculated, the College provides a financial aid award that is designed to meet the gap between the cost of Tuition, Housing and Food, First Year Academic Programming, if applicable, and required fees and the sum of a family's contribution, federal student loans, federal grants, work study (if eligible), and other outside grants and scholarships.
Bard is need-aware in admissions at the margins; meaning that if we do not feel that we can adequately package a student for success, we would encourage that student to seek more affordable paths to college. Bard does accept transfer students and has ample pipeline programs for students that would consider lower costs options for the first year or two of their education. If you feel your package is not sufficient to meet your need, please contact Financial Aid and/or Admission to discuss alternatives.
*Dual citizens (US citizens with other citizenship(s)), permanent US residents, and DACA/Undocumented students