Simon’s Rock at Bard College
Our mission is to educate scholars who are ready to engage in a college curriculum. Simon’s Rock at Bard College is a highly ranked early college of the liberal arts and sciences for motivated students ready to start college early after 10th or 11th grade.
Accepts first-year applicationsMid-AtlanticPrivateRuralSmall (2,000 and under)Co-Ed
Academic programs
- Design
- Engineering
- Research
- Science
- Technology
- Liberal Arts
- Education
- Communication
- Music
- Art & Design
- Economics
- Government/Political Science
- Health Science
- Performing Arts
- Social Science
- Visual Arts
Student experience
- Athletics
- Co-op/Internship Opportunities
- Disability Services
- Intramural/Club Sports
- LGBTQIA Services
- On-Campus Housing
- Religious Affiliation
- Study Abroad
- Undergraduate Research
Application information
First-year
We require the following application materials for first year applicants:
Our recommended deadlines are:
- High school transcript including current year grades (unofficial copy accepted, official transcript required before first day of class)
- Two academic teacher recommendations in different subjects and at least one from the current year
- An interview
- “Why Here, Why Now?” essay
Our recommended deadlines are:
- Spring: November 1
- Fall:
- Early Action: December 1
- Regular Decision: April 1
Transfer
We require the following application materials for transfer students:
- An unofficial copy of your high school and college transcript must be submitted for admission review. Official high school and college transcripts must be sent to admit@simons-rock.edu before the first day of class.
- A college report must be completed by a college official from your current or most recent institution and submitted separately to Simon's Rock (admit@simons-rock.edu)
- An academic advisor evaluation/recommendation
- A professor evaluation/recommendation
- A writing supplement with two essays. Each essay is 500 to 1,000 words.
- An interview
- Spring: November 1
- Fall:
- Early Action: December 1
- Regular Decision: April 1
Image gallery
Additional information
Simon’s Rock offers both need based and merit based financial aid. Applicants are considered for any merit based aid they qualify for, just by virtue of applying for admission. But to be considered for need based aid, students need to apply through the FAFSA and CSS Profile. Students should apply for financial aid at the same time as they apply for admission. Over eighty percent of our students receive financial aid.
Simon's Rock in Barrytown, NY
Two supplemental essays are required.
Visit us
To schedule your visit, go to simons-rock.edu/visit
Business Insider said Simon's Rock is a top choice "if you want to be among the most intelligent students in America." In 2023, U.S. News ranked Simon’s Rock as #1 for Best Undergraduate Teaching and #2 in Most Innovative Schools.