How hard is it to transfer to Bard College?

I'm thinking about transferring to Bard College and would love to hear from anyone who's been through this. What was the process like, and how hard was it to get accepted? Any particular advice?

Your decision to consider transferring to Bard College indicates a desire for an immersive liberal arts experience. When considering how difficult it is to get accepted as a transfer student, it would be beneficial to look at the historical acceptance rates. Bard College typically has a transfer acceptance rate of about 25-30%, which makes it moderately selective.

The transfer application process at Bard College involves several steps. Firstly, you'll need to submit the Common Application for Transfer Students or the Bard Transfer Supplement, which includes a personal essay. Additionally, unlike some other schools, Bard requires the submission of all college and high school transcripts, a College Report Form (a form filled out by a dean or equivalent at your current school), and two recommendations from college instructor,s preferably in your intended major.

In terms of advice, focus on why you're specifically interested in Bard's approach to education in essays and interviews if you're offered one. Be clear about why Bard's interdisciplinary approach to liberal education aligns with your academic goals. Also, you might want to discuss how you’ve grown in your current college experience and what you’ve done academically since high school. Showcase your commitment to academics, extracurriculars, and endeavors that align with Bard's spirit, such as creativity, service, and intellectual curiosity.

Keep in mind transferring credits can be a bit tricky. Bard's policy is somewhat flexible, but they don't guarantee that every credit will transfer. You'll need to work with their Registrar's Office to see what credits will carry over and how it impacts your degree timeline. Be sure to reach out to the admissions office for any specific concerns or questions. Good luck!