Living at Berea College involves specific costs for housing, food, and essential fees, but no student pays tuition. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the total cost varies depending on your chosen housing option: approximately $8,492 for Residence Hall living or $11,265 for Ecovillage living.
Understanding Berea College's Unique Financial Model
Berea College is renowned for its commitment to affordability and access to higher education. A cornerstone of its financial model is that no student pays tuition. Instead, Berea College provides a Tuition Promise Scholarship to every enrolled student, which covers the full cost of tuition—currently valued at over $50,000 per year. This unique approach significantly reduces the financial burden on students and their families.
Mandatory Fees for the 2024-2025 Academic Year
While tuition is covered, students are responsible for certain mandatory fees related to living on campus and participating in college life. These costs ensure students have access to housing, meals, health services, and campus activities. The expenses for the Fall/Spring terms of the 2024-2025 academic year are detailed below:
| Expense Category | Residence Hall | Ecovillage |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $4,202 | $6,975 |
| Food | $4,006 | $4,006 |
| Health and Dental Fee | $176 | $176 |
| Campus Activities Fee | $108 | $108 |
| Total Annual Cost | $8,492 | $11,265 |
These figures represent the direct costs charged by the college for living and participating in campus life. They cover essential needs like a place to live, a meal plan, access to health services, and funding for various student organizations and events. It's important to note that these costs do not include personal expenses such as books, supplies, travel, or other miscellaneous items, which students should budget for separately.
For more detailed information regarding the cost of attendance and financial aid opportunities, you can visit the official Berea College website at www.berea.edu/student-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.
