Your Future
Starts Here.
We seek curious, driven individuals from every background and corner of the world. At BRAS Academy, admissions is holistic — we look at the whole person, not just grades and test scores.
Undergraduate
Join a community of 4,500+ undergraduates across 85 majors. Our acceptance rate is 12%, with an average incoming GPA of 3.9. We practice need-blind admissions for domestic students.
Graduate
7,900+ graduate students pursue master's and doctoral degrees across 68 programs. We offer generous funding packages including tuition waivers, research assistantships, and living stipends.
International
Students from 74 countries call BRAS home. We provide dedicated support for visa processing, English proficiency, and cultural transition. International students are eligible for merit scholarships.
What We Look For
Our holistic review considers academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, character, and potential for contribution. There is no single formula for admission.
Academic Record
Official transcripts showing strong performance in a rigorous curriculum. We value an upward trajectory and intellectual curiosity across subjects. AP, IB, and A-Level results are considered favorably.
Standardized Tests
SAT or ACT scores are optional for 2026 admission. GRE/GMAT scores are required for most graduate programs. MCAT required for medical school applicants. LSAT required for JD applicants.
Personal Essays
Two essays: one on an experience that shaped your perspective, and one on how you would contribute to the BRAS community. Authenticity and thoughtfulness matter more than polish.
Letters of Recommendation
Two academic references (three for graduate applicants). Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your intellectual curiosity, character, and potential for growth.
Extracurricular Activities
We value depth over breadth. Show us what you're passionate about — leadership, community service, creative pursuits, research, athletics. Quality of engagement matters most.
Interview (Optional)
Applicants may request an alumni or admissions officer interview. Available in-person, via video, or on campus. Interviews are evaluative and informational — an opportunity for mutual discovery.
Education Without Financial Barriers
At BRAS Academy, we believe that talent should never be limited by financial circumstance. We are committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students — domestic and international.
Our generous financial aid program ensures that families earning under $85,000 annually pay no tuition whatsoever. For families earning under $150,000, tuition is capped at 10% of annual income. Over 70% of BRAS students receive some form of financial aid, and 62% graduate debt-free.
Featured Scholarships
Hargrove Presidential Scholarship
Full tuition, room, board, and a $5,000 research stipend for students demonstrating exceptional academic promise and leadership. 15 awarded annually.
Farouk Science Fellowship
Full funding for PhD students in natural sciences and engineering, including tuition, living stipend, and conference travel support for up to 5 years.
Global Leaders Award
Merit-based scholarship for international students covering 75-100% of tuition, based on academic achievement and demonstrated community impact.
Community Impact Grant
$10,000-$25,000 annual awards for students with outstanding records of community service and social entrepreneurship from underrepresented backgrounds.
Experience BRAS in Person
The best way to discover what makes BRAS special is to see it for yourself. Join us for a campus tour, sit in on a class, talk with students, and explore our world-class facilities. We offer daily tours, open house events, and virtual visit options year-round.
Admissions FAQ
Does BRAS require standardized test scores?
For Fall 2026 undergraduate admissions, SAT/ACT scores are optional. Students who choose not to submit scores will not be disadvantaged. Graduate programs have varying requirements — please check your specific program's page.
What is BRAS's acceptance rate?
The undergraduate acceptance rate for Fall 2025 was 12%. Graduate program acceptance rates vary by department, ranging from 8% (Computer Science PhD) to 25% (Master's in Education). We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.
Can I apply for financial aid as an international student?
Yes. BRAS is committed to need-aware admissions for international students and meets 100% of demonstrated need for admitted students. International applicants should submit the CSS Profile and BRAS Financial Aid Application by the December 1 deadline.
Is on-campus housing guaranteed?
On-campus housing is guaranteed for all first-year and second-year undergraduates. 85% of upperclassmen and 60% of graduate students live on campus. Our residential system includes themed living-learning communities, suite-style housing, and family apartments.
Can I defer my admission?
Admitted students may request a one-year deferral for undergraduate admission. Requests should be submitted by the enrollment deposit deadline with a brief explanation. Deferrals for graduate programs are considered on a case-by-case basis by the department.
How do I transfer to BRAS Academy?
BRAS accepts approximately 50 transfer students each year. Applicants should have completed at least one year of college with a minimum 3.5 GPA. The transfer application deadline is March 15, with decisions released by May 15.