Many questions about Barnard

trapeze37
Thu, 16 Dec 2010 18:07:39 +0000

Hi catsgomeow–I am not actually a current student/parent, but I thought I’d at least try to answer your questions for now. There are some very knowledgeable Barnard mothers who often respond to student’s questions, so they may also add input at some point.


Barnard says that they will meet 100% of DEMONSTRATED need. From some of the early decision acceptances, it does not seem like they necessarily got as much as they wanted. However, Barnard is certainly better than other schools in that A) they will not only fulfill part of your demonstrated need and that b) they are need blind, so finances do not affect your decision. Your aid is also reevaluated every single year, so your package will probably change every year you attend Barnard.
There is definitely a big difference. Barnard is a small liberal arts college without a core curriculum, with a very different advising system, a separate campus, etc. Yes, your degree is from Barnard College of Columbia University, but it is not a Columbia College degree.
Barnard is definitely very prestigious. Maybe not as many people have heard of Barnard, but that is when you can explain that it is linked with Columbia University, which everyone knows because its an Ivy. Barnard also has a very good office of career development which can help link you with good jobs to start off, as well as help with writing resumes, etc.


Hope this helps while you wait for someone who has more experience with Barnard to tell you more!