Bard College Berlin

Bard College Berlin is Germany's first private liberal arts university. On a residential campus in the former embassy quarter of East Berlin, it offers Bachelor's and one-year undergraduate programmes in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. A faculty-student ratio of 1:5 allows the college to provide an education of incomparable quality, based on small-group teaching and individual advising. Students also have access to Europe-wide and global networks of study opportunities through partnership agreements and the Bard network. Bard College is a four-year residential college of the liberal arts and sciences with a 150-year history of academic excellence. Located on a 540-acre campus in New York's Hudson River Valley, the College offers the BA degree with concentrations in nearly 50 academic programmes in four divisions.

Bard College Berlin was established in 2010 as an affiliated campus of Bard College, an esteemed liberal arts college in New York. The Berlin campus was founded with the aim of creating an innovative and internationally engaged environment for higher education in Germany. The institution is committed to providing a liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives. Bard College Berlin operates within the framework of the German education system but maintains strong ties to its American counterpart, allowing for a unique fusion of pedagogical approaches. Over the years, the college has grown its academic programs, faculty, and student body, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to academic excellence and cultural exchange. The campus is situated in the historic district of Berlin, offering students access to the cultural, political, and historical richness of the city. The college has developed partnerships with various institutions and organizations to enhance research and learning opportunities. Its mission is to cultivate engaged global citizens through rigorous academic programs, public events, and community engagement initiatives. As part of its history, Bard College Berlin has continually adapted to changes in higher education, emphasizing experiential learning, diversity, and interdisciplinary approaches. Today, it is recognized as a leading institution for liberal arts education in Germany, attracting students from around the world who seek a transformative educational experience in Berlin.

Application requirements and admission process at Bard College Berlin typically include submitting an online application form, academic transcripts, a motivation letter, a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS scores), and sometimes a portfolio or additional materials depending on the program. Applicants must demonstrate their academic readiness and motivation for studying at Bard College Berlin. The admissions committee reviews all materials to assess the applicant’s academic background, intellectual ability, and alignment with the college’s liberal arts curriculum. Interviews may be conducted as part of the selection process. International students are advised to submit their applications well in advance of the deadline to ensure all supporting documents are received on time. Admission decisions are based on a holistic review of academic achievements, personal statement, recommendations, and potential contribution to the college community. Bard College Berlin values diversity, rigor, and a demonstrated commitment to undergraduate study. Prospective students should check the specific requirements for their chosen program and follow application instructions carefully. Deadlines, criteria, and procedures are available on the college's official admissions webpage.

Bard College Berlin is accredited by the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA), an internationally recognized agency that evaluates and certifies the quality standards of degree programs in higher education institutions. FIBAA accreditation ensures that Bard College Berlin adheres to rigorous academic and institutional quality standards, including curriculum design, faculty qualifications, student support services, and institutional governance. Additionally, the college complies with German higher education regulations and standards, which are overseen by the Berlin State Authority for Higher Education (Senatsverwaltung für Wissenschaft, Forschung und Gleichstellung). This accreditation affirms that Bard College Berlin offers recognized and high-quality degree programs in accordance with both national and international standards. The college’s accreditation status is regularly reviewed and maintained through ongoing external evaluations to ensure continuous improvement and compliance. As a higher education institution operating within Germany, Bard College Berlin also holds the necessary approvals and licenses from the relevant German authorities to confer academic degrees. These accreditations collectively guarantee the college’s academic integrity, legitimacy, and recognition in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). Furthermore, Bard College Berlin's programs are designed to meet the standards set by international accrediting bodies, facilitating student mobility and recognition across borders. The college’s commitment to quality assurance is reflected in its adherence to best practices in teaching, research, and community engagement, supporting its mission to provide a rigorous, innovative, and international liberal arts education. In summary, Bard College Berlin’s accreditation status underscores its commitment to maintaining high academic standards, ensuring student success, and fostering academic excellence in an international context.

Free-of-charge internet access

Pick-up service from railway station / airport

About the City: In today's world, Berlin takes centre stage with a leading role in Europe and internationally - not only in public policy, but in the arts, education, and research. The city's dynamism is evident in the plenary chamber of the Bundestag (German parliament)- in lecture halls of the city's major public universities- across tables in libraries and archives, independent research institutions, and cafes- in screening rooms and art galleries- and in storefront offices of Internet start-ups, design firms, and NGOs. Berlin is a magnet for people who want to make a difference, and who are already doing so: artists, scientists, politicians, diplomats, journalists, scholars, and students from every corner of the globe. Bard College Berlin actively engages Berlin's cultural and intellectual abundance. Class excursions, internships, and language courses give depth and relevance to what students study, making the city both textbook and classroom.

Cost of living:

Funding opportunities within the university: Bard College Berlin has a limited number of full and partial scholarships to award to outstanding students. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, the candidate's contribution to the diversity of the student body, and financial need, in addition to the criteria listed for the individual scholarships.http://www.berlin.bard.edu/admissions/financial-aid/scholarships/

General promotion / funding: EU (e.g. ERASMUS+)

Arrival support: The university offers airport pick-up for international students travelling alone to Berlin. An extensive orientation programme helps students to navigate bureaucratic issues related to moving to Berlin and also introduces them to life in Germany.

Services and support for international students: All students have access to support services, including a campus doctor and counsellor.

Bard College Berlin offers a unique interdisciplinary liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and active engagement with contemporary global issues. The university is dedicated to fostering an open, inclusive, and diverse academic community, encouraging students to develop their individual voice and pursue personalized learning paths. With small class sizes and close student-faculty interaction, students receive personalized attention and mentorship, enhancing their academic experience. The campus is located in Berlin, a vibrant cultural and intellectual hub, providing students with unparalleled access to museums, galleries, historical sites, and a dynamic arts scene, enriching their educational journey beyond the classroom. The curriculum combines rigorous academics with experiential learning, including internships, research projects, and community engagement, preparing students for careers in various fields and citizenship around the world. Bard College Berlin also emphasizes the importance of global perspectives and intercultural understanding, offering international faculty and diverse student body. The college’s emphasis on social responsibility and civic engagement empowers students to become active, thoughtful citizens. Additionally, the college fosters a creative environment with state-of-the-art facilities, encouraging artistic expression and innovation across disciplines. Graduates from Bard College Berlin are well-prepared for advanced studies and professional success in a rapidly changing world, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a comprehensive, globally minded, and critically engaged education.