NEW YORK, MARCH 29, 2023 – Barnard College received a remarkable 11,803 applications for entry into the Class of 2027 and offered admission to 6.5% of those eager to secure a spot. This is an exceptionally strong incoming class — the most selective class to date — and an impressive 94% of the applicants who reported a high school ranking are in the top 10% of their class.
Over half (58%) of the newly admitted students identify as women of color. The class hails from 47 states and territories, as well as 40 countries, and 14% are international students. Approximately 21% are the first in their families to attend college and 20% are Pell Grant recipients, which reflects Barnard’s commitment to increasing access to higher education among those from disadvantaged backgrounds. A significant portion of those seeking to attend (54%) applied under the College’s temporary test-optional policy that went into effect at the beginning of the pandemic.
Barnard released admissions decisions on the evening of Wednesday, March 29.
“This was an exceptional group of applicants,” said Jennifer Fondiller, Vice President for Enrollment and Communications. “We were so impressed with their academic records and with the energy and purpose they display in pursuing their passions, especially during these challenging past few years. We can’t wait to welcome them to campus.”
Throughout April, newly admitted students will have many opportunities to visit in person and virtually to connect with students, faculty, administrators, and alumnae.
The College is committed to introducing students from a wide variety of backgrounds to Barnard through programs such as Barnard Bound, which aims to identify high-achieving students of color. Barnard is also excited to be enrolling its second Questbridge cohort of 34 admitted students, which includes scholars from early decision and regular decision. Finally, the College supports several research programs geared toward underrepresented students and is thrilled to welcome students into the Science Pathways and Environmental Science Pathways Scholars Program and the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP).
“We were energized by the stellar and incredibly diverse applicant pool, drawing from around the world,” said Christina Lopez, Dean of Enrollment Management. “And because we know excellence can come from anywhere, we’re proud to provide financial aid that allows us to support students from all economic backgrounds as they enter into the Barnard community.”
About Barnard
Barnard provides a singular educational experience, as a world-renowned college focused on excellence across the arts and sciences, with all the academic resources of Columbia University and the City of New York as an extended classroom. Founded in 1889, Barnard was one of the few colleges in the nation where women could receive the same rigorous and challenging education available to men. Today, Barnard is one of the most selective academic institutions in the country and remains devoted to empowering extraordinary women to become even more exceptional. For more information on Barnard College, contact Barnard Media Relations at 212-854-2037 or mediarelations@barnard.edu. To learn more, follow Barnard on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Kathryn Gerlach
212.854.8037
mediarelations@barnard.edu