Bard College at Simon's Rock: the Early College
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Apply as an International Student

Simon’s Rock enthusiastically welcomes applications from international students. Living with and learning from a diverse and talented group of peers is a key component of a Simon’s Rock education.

Ishan Guru walking on path with friend

Guidelines for International Applicants

To apply, follow the standard application directions. Here are some guidelines specifically for international students. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your dedicated international admissions counselor.

Remote Interviews

An interview with an admission counselor is required of each applicant. We’ll just be getting to know you as a live, talking, thinking person. And we’ll be glad to answer any questions you or your parents have about us. Interviews can be scheduled before or after the application is submitted.

Language Proficiency Requirements

Simon’s Rock courses require a strong English language skills.

Students who did not study at an English-medium school or who are not from a predominately English-speaking region will likely need to submit scores (taken within the last two years) from one of the following English Proficiency Exams. Score reports must be sent directly from the testing center.

Students who attend High Schools with full English instruction may request to be considered for a TOEFL/IELTS/DET/PTE waiver by emailing admit@simons-rock.edu, Subject: International Applicant - TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo waiver.

Simon's Rock students generally score above the following:

  • TOEFL iBT - 100
    Add Simon’s Rock to your score recipients list by entering our ID code 3795.
  • IELTS - 7.0
    Requests for score delivery to Simon’s Rock must be submitted directly to the test center where you take the IELTS test.
  • Duolingo English Test - 120
    Can be taken online at anytime. Once you receive certified test results, you can log into your account, click on the “Send Results” button next to your test results and select “Bard College at Simon’s Rock”.
  • PTE - 65
    Taken at a secure test center. Requests for score delivery to Simon’s Rock must be submitted directly to the test center where you take the PTE Academic Test.
  • CAE - C1
    Upload your Certificate Statement of Results.

Applicants who need further instruction to advance their English language skills will participate in our Pathways to Academic Choice and Excellence (PACE) Program, which includes an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) curriculum alongside the college curriculum.

Official Transcripts

Official transcripts, diplomas, and leaving examination scores from secondary and post-secondary schools (in English). Transcripts are considered official only if they are sent directly to:

Applicants may send unofficial copies of all transcripts to admit@simons-rock.edu for the initial processing and review of your application. Unofficial transcripts must have your full name, date of birth and the name of your high school included on them. Transcripts without this information will not be processed. If you are admitted, your offer is contingent upon the receipt and verification of all official printed transcripts.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

International Students are eligible to receive Simon’s Rock institutional financial aid and scholarships.

 How to Apply for Financial Aid
 

Visa Applications

Students living abroad, who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States, will require a student visa to study at Simon's Rock. Following admission to the college, applicants requiring a visa will be sent an I-20, with which they may begin the F-1 student visa application. Visa costs are to be incurred by the student and are not included in the cost of room and board. Entry visa renewal periods differ by country and are subject to change without notice.

Bard College at Simon’s Rock is committed to creating a safe space for community members of all citizenships, including immigrants.

When to Apply

Most students apply to the College as 10th and 11th graders. Students in their last year of high school (equivalent to U.S. grade 12) are eligible to apply to start college in our spring semester, which begins in January. Students who graduate from high school early or at a young age are also eligible to apply. If you are an 8th or 9th grader, consider applying to Bard Academy.

 Dates and Deadlines