When you have access to a healthy living environment, you can be the best version of yourself. That’s why, through our Campus Care Commitment—valued at up to $11,000 per year—you’ll never be asked to pay toward housing and food costs.
Berea is committed to fully funding all allowable housing and meal costs. Our intentional approach keeps your focus where it belongs—on learning, growing, and thriving—not on how to cover essential living costs. Berea removes financial stress around daily essentials, empowering you to live well so you can learn well.
At A Glance
#1
Washington Monthly magazine has ranked Berea College the #1 "Best Bang for the Buck" College in the South in its 2024 College Guide and Rankings
95%
of students live on campus
100%
Fully Funded College Degree
The nation's first fully funded, no-loan degree—covering 100% of tuition, housing, food, fees, and supplies—for every enrolled student.
The Campus Care Commitment extends beyond classrooms and work experiences—it’s woven into every part of your shared experience. From sustainable dining to intentional living accommodations, Berea’s approach ensures that your daily life on campus reflects the same purpose and promise as your education.
Living with Purpose
Our residence halls are more than places to sleep—they are communities that cultivate respect, responsibility, and belonging. You will develop valuable life skills such as communication, empathy, conflict resolution, and consensus building. Our residence halls provide security by always requiring a card swipe for entry. In addition, you will have free access to internet services and free laundry facilities.
Food brings people together and creates community. Through Berea Dining Services, students enjoy nutritious, locally sourced meals crafted to support both personal wellness and sustainable practices. From produce grown on campus to menu options that reflect both local and global food traditions, every bite embodies our belief that good food fuels not only the body but also the mind and spirit.
From quick bites to shared meals, four convenient campus food and beverage locations make it easy to fuel your day, wherever it takes you.
Mountaineer Dining Hall
The Mountaineer Dining Hall offers diverse, sustainable, buffet-style meals with allergen-safe stations. Meal plans provide unlimited swipes, flex dollars for café locations, and guest passes.
Kindred Bowl
The Kindred Bowl serves wholesome bowls from around the world made with fresh ingredients, emphasizing multiple options and weekly global specials.
Library Cafe
The Library Café serves whole bean coffees along with fresh, rich-brewed, Italian style espresso beverages, premium teas, and a variety of pastries.
Pinnacles Cafe
The Pinnacles Café features grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, sweet and savory snacks, and coffee beverages.
Free Essentials for Everyday Student Life
The Bear Essentials Store is a unique resource that focuses on the indirect costs of attending college.
The store offers essential items at no cost, making it easier for you to focus on your studies without worrying about basic needs. Stocked with everything from school supplies like notebooks and pens, to personal items such as umbrellas and toiletries, the store provides practical solutions to the everyday challenges and indirect costs college students face.
