Berea College is distinctive among institutions of higher learning. Founded in 1855 as the first interracial and coeducational college in the South, Berea charges no tuition and admits only academically promising students, primarily from Appalachia, who have limited economic resources. Berea's cost of educating a student exceeds $23,000 per year. Berea College offers a high quality liberal arts education to students of all races, who have great promise but limited economic resources. Founded in 1855 as the first interracial and co-educational college in the South, the College promotes understanding and kinship among all people, service to communities in Appalachia and beyond, and sustainable living practices which set an example of new ways to conserve our limited natural resources.