Berea College Scholarships for International Students (Kentucky, USA)

Berea College in Kentucky presents a uniquely generous opportunity for international students. One of the few colleges in the U.S. to commit fully to financially supporting every admitted international student, Berea stands out with its no‑tuition model and built‑in work‑study program.

This guide provides a comprehensive look at the scholarships and financial aid available to international applicants, what is covered, requirements, and how to apply successfully in 2025.

Fully Funded Education at Berea College

• 100% Funding for International Students
  Berea College is the only U.S. institution that provides 100% funding to all enrolled international students, this includes tuition, housing, food, and fees.

• The Work‑to‑Learn Program
  International students receive on‑campus employment through Berea’s Work Program during the academic year. In their first year, students earn approximately US $2,500 (some reports say around US $2,000) to help with personal expenses.

• Deposit and Additional Aid
  Admitted students are required to pay a US $2,200 deposit which can be used toward personal expenses over four years. For students unable to pay it in full, Berea offers additional financial aid options.

• Personal Expenses Requirement
  International students are encouraged to contribute roughly US $1,000 each year for personal costs beyond what the college covers.

Eligibility Criteria for International Applicants

To qualify for this full funding model, international students must:

1. Gain Admission to Berea College through the standard application process.

2. Demonstrate financial need, Berea awards admissions and funding based on ability to pay, treating international students similarly to U.S. applicants.

3. Be ready to engage in the Work Program, fulfilling on‑campus job obligations.

Note: Admission is competitive, and Berea seeks students who demonstrate both financial need and a commitment to academic and community values.

Types of Aid and Scholarships at Berea

Financial Aid for International Students

Berea combines institutional scholarships, grants, and work‑study opportunities so international students effectively pay no tuition.

Departmental Scholarships and Awards

Various fields provide additional scholarships for academic achievement. For instance, the Department of Studies of Religion & Spirituality offers scholarships such as the Ellen Bangson Scholarship in Christian Education and many others.

Academic Achievement and Graduate Scholarships

Berea offers awards and scholarships recognizing academic excellence through department funds like the Katherine C. Christensen Scholarship Fund or research awards. These are available to currently enrolled students, including international students.

Taylor Fellowship for Graduating Seniors

The Taylor Fellowship (Berea College) grants a full year of global exploration with a $40,000 award. Graduating seniors may apply through an internal nomination process, with applications due by September 15 of their final year.

Campus Christian Center Graduate Support

Graduating seniors and alumni planning graduate or seminary studies may access support through the Campus Christian Center, based on merit and campus involvement.

Application Process and Tips

1. Apply for Admission
   Use Berea’s Common App or direct application by the deadline (typically January 15 for international students, though verify for 2025).

2. Submit the Required Deposit
   Accepted international students pay a deposit, which may be partially or fully covered by additional aid if needed.

3. Complete Financial Need Review
   Provide any documentation that helps demonstrate financial need to Berea’s financial aid office.

4. Participate in Work Program
   Be prepared to work on‑campus jobs (typically 10 hours per week or similar) during each semester.

5. Engage in Scholarship Opportunities
   Explore departmental awards, academic excellence grants, and fellowships such as the Taylor Fellowship if you are a senior.

Why Berea College Stands Out

• Full Coverage: No other U.S. college offers the same level of comprehensive aid for international students.

• Work College Model: Berea integrates labor and learning, offering unique opportunities to earn income and build skills simultaneously.

• Inclusive Community: Students come from over 70 countries, and Berea cultivates a mission-driven culture focused on diversity, service, and social responsibility.

• Multiple Paths Beyond Tuition: Support extends beyond tuition—housing, dining, fees, job wages, and structured awards make Berea a rare and valuable option.

Conclusion

Berea College offers an unmatched opportunity for international students seeking full funding for undergraduate study in the United States. With tuition, housing, dining, fees, and work‑study income covered through integrated financial aid, Berea eliminates nearly all financial barriers. International applicants with strong academics and demonstrated need should consider Berea as a leading option for affordable, world-class education. By engaging fully in its academic, labor, and scholarship programs, international students can thrive and prepare for global leadership and impact.