Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a student nontraditional?

A student who meets any of these three criteria: age 23 or older, and/or married, and/or a parent of a dependent child.

Q: As a nontraditional student, what are my living options?

Nontraditional students have several living options while attending Berea College. Berea College will help each student afford the cost of living for these living options:

Q: Can I live off-campus?

Visit the Student Life Office on the 3rd Floor of the Woods-Penn Building and ask for an Off-Campus Housing application form.

Q: How much financial aid will I receive a semester to live off campus or in the Ecovillage?

Each student’s grant aid disbursement will vary dependent upon the Student Aid Index or SAI (previously Expected Family Contribution or EFC) and the student’s classification. There is no fixed amount that a student will receive. However, the aid will likely be equivalent to that which it would cost to afford housing in a residence hall and receive a meal plan. For more information contact Student Financial Aid.

Q: How do I get SNAP benefits (food stamps)?

You can apply online here or by visiting the local Department for Community Based Services office.

Learn more about SNAP here.

Q: Where do I get a parking decal?

The Parking Decals are sold at the Public Safety office. More information on price and type of decal can be found here.

Q: Does the NTSP serve international nontraditional students?

Just like all nontraditional students, international nontraditional students are invited to utilize all of the resources available, such as the Nontraditional Student Center, a comforting home away from home. All nontraditional students can cook for themselves, make tea or coffee, build community, and study in a peaceful and productive environment.

Q: Where can I vote?

Students are eligible to vote in local and state elections or in their hometown. Students can register to vote through TurboVote.

Visit the Kentucky Voter Information Portal to check your voter registration status and to see your polling and precinct information.