About

Berea College is a top-ranked liberal arts college that hasn’t charged tuition since 1892. A federally recognized work college, students work at least 10 hours per week at campus jobs. Berea only admits academically promising students with limited financial resources, making it the most selective institution in Kentucky.

Founded in 1855 by ardent abolitionists and radical reformers, Berea College was the first interracial and coeducational college in the South. Guided by the scriptural motto, “God has made of one blood all peoples of the earth” (Acts 17:26), our founders envisioned a school open to students of all races and genders even before the Civil War. That inclusive spirit is still alive and well today at Berea.

The unique combination of rigorous academics and a Labor Program prepares students for life after college as they graduate not only with a degree, but also four years of progressive work experience. Students finish college with an academic transcript and a labor transcript, detailing both the knowledge and soft skills employers are looking for and the practical experience that only comes through previous employment. This gives Berea College graduates a leg up as they enter the professional world.

No student is ever charged tuition. Unlike other colleges where tuition revenue provides most of the funding, we put our endowment to work by using investment returns to help pay for every student's tuition. Our endowment earnings provide nearly three-quarters of our operating budget or about 76%. Another 16% comes from state and federal aid. Generous donors like you help us raise the remaining 8% every year.