Berklee College of Music: Rankings, Fees, Courses & Admissions

Regional Universities North lists Berklee College of Music as 12 in their ranking of colleges for 2022–2023.

Berklee College of Music's admissions process is competitive and selective, intending to identify passionate and talented individuals who will thrive in a creative and collaborative environment. The following is an overview of the application process, including important dates and application fees:

Timeline for applying: Berklee College of Music follows a semester-based academic calendar, with intakes in the autumn and spring. The following are the general application deadlines:

Fall intake: Typically, in early January.

Spring intake: Usually in early September.

Online Application: Prospective students must complete an online application through the Berklee College of Music website. Personal statements, transcripts, recommendation letters, and other required documents can be uploaded to the application portal.

Transcripts: Applicants must provide official transcripts from all previous educational institutions attended. These transcripts assist the admissions committee in evaluating academic background.

Recommendation Letters: Typically, two letters of recommendation are required. These letters should be written by people who are familiar with the applicant's musical abilities, work ethic, and personality.

Submission of an Audition/Portfolio: Depending on the program, applicants may be required to submit an audition, portfolio, or recorded performance demonstrating their musical abilities and creativity.

Personal Statement/Essay: Applicants are frequently required to submit a personal statement or essay outlining their musical passion, career goals, and why they want to attend Berklee.

Application Fee: The application fee for Berklee College of Music was around $150.

Interviews: As part of the selection process, some programs may require an interview. This interview could take place in person, over the phone, or through a video call.

Documents Required for Berklee College of Music

The documents required for admission to Berklee College of Music typically include:

• Completed online application
• Official high school or college transcripts
• Letters of recommendation (usually two)
• Audition or portfolio (depending on the program)
• Personal statement or essay
• Application fee
• English language proficiency test scores (if applicable)
• Financial aid and scholarship documents (if seeking financial assistance)

Exam Requirements for Berklee College of Music

Berklee College of Music typically requires certain exams as part of the admission process to assess applicants' academic and English language proficiency. 

• English Proficiency Exams:
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score requirement is often around 80-100 (iBT).
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum score requirement is usually around 6.5 - 7.0.
• Duolingo English Test: Minimum score requirement may vary, but it's generally around 105-120.

Berklee College of Music has a vibrant and dynamic campus that fosters student creativity and collaboration. The main campus is in Boston, Massachusetts, a city known for its rich musical history and cultural diversity. This urban setting provides students with numerous musical opportunities, performances, and industry connections. Berklee also has a campus in Valencia, Spain, giving students an international perspective and experience. Berklee's housing is intended to provide students with a comfortable and supportive living environment. The college offers a variety of housing options to accommodate different preferences and needs. These options include everything from traditional dormitory-style living to apartment-style living. Berklee's accommodations are modern and foster a sense of community, encouraging artistic exchange. Here's a table outlining the different types of housing and their estimated costs at Berklee College of Music:

Cost of Attendance for Various Courses (Approximate):

Undergraduate Courses:  

Postgraduate Courses:  

Cost of Living (Estimated):

Here's a breakdown of the estimated cost of living components for a year:

Berklee College of Music offers a range of scholarships to support talented and deserving students in pursuing their musical education. These scholarships acknowledge excellence in various fields, such as performance, composition, production, and music business. Here are a few notable scholarships available:

1. Presidential Scholarship: One of Berklee's most prestigious scholarships, the Presidential Scholarship is awarded to a select group of incoming undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional musical talent and academic achievement. This scholarship covers full tuition for four years of study.
2. World Tour Scholarship: This scholarship supports international students by providing partial tuition awards to help offset the cost of attending Berklee. It aims to promote diversity and global representation within the student community.
3. Berklee Lollapalooza Endowed Scholarship: This scholarship targets students with financial need who show artistic promise and a commitment to social activism. It's awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students pursuing various music-related disciplines.
4. Arif Mardin Endowed Scholarship: Named after the legendary music producer Arif Mardin, this scholarship assists students with financial need and exceptional musical talent. It is available for both UG and PG students.
5. BMI Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship is open to students pursuing studies in songwriting and composition. It provides financial assistance to individuals who display strong potential and commitment to these creative fields.
6. Steve Vai Scholarship: Sponsored by renowned guitarist Steve Vai, this scholarship supports outstanding guitarists who are dedicated to pursuing a music career. It's aimed at both UG and PG students.
7. John Lennon Scholarship: Established in honor of the legendary musician John Lennon, this scholarship focuses on supporting songwriters and composers. It rewards originality and creativity in musical composition.