In the words of the university:

"The state-recognized Barenboim-Said Akademie offers a bachelor’s degree in music for talented young persons, most of them from the Middle East and North Africa. The intense course of study also focuses on humanities and musicology. The academy’s faculty is made up of world-renowned artists. In addition to the bachelor’s degree, it offers an artist diploma in all orchestral instruments, piano, composition and conducting, preparing musicians for a professional career.

The Barenboim-Said Akademie is steeped in the pedagogical spirit of Edward Said and Daniel Barenboim. Students learn to listen to each other and develop their own ideas. The goal is to train excellent musicians who are also curious and well-educated.

The Federal Government of Germany bears the operational costs. Germany’s Foreign Ministry provides scholarships for the students. The State of Berlin has leased the landmark building to the Barenboim-Said Akademie for 99 years."