UC Berkeley
Enlightening minds, shaping futures.
📍 Berkeley, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #15 in United States · QS World #17 · THE World #8 · ARWU #5
Quick Facts about UC Berkeley
- Type: Public
- Students: 45,307
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $52,269 – $54,708/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: August
About UC Berkeley
Academics
UC Berkeley offers a vast array of academic programs across numerous colleges and schools, including Environmental Design, Letters and Science, Natural Resources, Engineering, and the Haas School of Business. The university is known for its rigorous academics and high-achieving programs, with a strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary collaboration. Many courses are available to international students, including specialized programs through UC Berkeley Extension (Berkeley Global) that offer academic credit or certificates in various career-based fields.
International Students
UC Berkeley is a diverse institution with approximately 10% of its student body comprising international students, representing over 50 countries. The Berkeley International Office (BIO) provides comprehensive support services, including advising, immigration assistance, and programming to help international students navigate their academic and personal journeys. English language proficiency is a key requirement, with accepted tests including IELTS (minimum 6.5) and TOEFL (minimum 80-90 for undergraduate, 90 for graduate). Various student organizations, such as the International Students Association at Berkeley (ISAB), the largest international student association on campus, facilitate cultural integration and create a supportive community.
Campus & Location
Located in Berkeley, California, the campus offers a vibrant city life with numerous attractions. Iconic campus features include the Sather Tower (Campanile), which provides panoramic views of the campus and the Bay Area, and Sproul Plaza, a hub of student activity. The University of California Botanical Garden and the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive are also popular destinations. UC Berkeley offers various transportation options, including the Bear Transit shuttle system for on-campus and vicinity travel, and convenient access to the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system for exploring the wider region.
Career Outcomes
UC Berkeley has a strong reputation for innovation and entrepreneurship, consistently ranking highly for venture-backed startups founded by its graduates. The Berkeley Career Engagement Center offers tailored services and resources for international students, including career counseling, workshops, and information on employment authorization and visa matters. Notable alumni include co-founders of major tech companies like Apple (Steve Wozniak) and Intel (Gordon Moore), and former CEOs of Google (Eric Schmidt) and Adobe (Shantanu Narayen), highlighting the university's strong industry connections. The campus fosters a robust startup culture, with initiatives like SkyDeck and various programs supporting entrepreneurial endeavors.
Information for International Students at UC Berkeley
UC Berkeley in Berkeley, United States welcomes international students.
- No visa support offered
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$2100/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for UC Berkeley
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to UC Berkeley:
- IELTS minimum: 7
- TOEFL minimum: 90
- Duolingo minimum: 115
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $95
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: December 1
Programs at UC Berkeley (22 programs)
UC Berkeley offers 22 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (7)
- Computer Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of computing, covering algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and artificial intelligence. Students learn to design, implement, and analyze complex software systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,226/yr
This program explores literature, critical theory, and creative writing, fostering strong analytical and communication skills. Students engage with diverse texts and develop their own voices as writers and thinkers.
Field: English
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Journalist - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,226/yr
This program examines political systems, institutions, and behavior, both domestically and internationally. Students develop analytical skills to understand power dynamics, public policy, and global affairs.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Diplomat, Campaign Manager, Journalist - Cognitive Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
This interdisciplinary program explores the nature of the mind and intelligence, drawing from psychology, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy. Students learn about perception, memory, language, and artificial intelligence.
Field: Cognitive Science
Career outcomes: UX Designer, Researcher, Data Scientist, AI Specialist - Art Practice (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,226/yr
The Art Practice program fosters creative expression and critical thinking through various artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and new media. Students develop their artistic voice and engage with contemporary art discourse.
Field: Art
Career outcomes: Artist, Art Educator, Gallery Assistant, Graphic Designer - Chemistry (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
This program offers a strong foundation in all branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Students gain hands-on laboratory experience and develop critical thinking skills essential for scientific inquiry.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Pharmacist, Materials Scientist, Environmental Scientist - Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
Students in this program learn to design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems, covering topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, robotics, and solid mechanics. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving and innovation in engineering.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Product Designer
Master Programs (9)
- Business Administration (MBA) — 21 months · English · $68,428/yr
The MBA program at Berkeley Haas develops innovative leaders who redefine how business is done. Students gain a deep understanding of business fundamentals, strategic thinking, and leadership skills through a rigorous curriculum and experiential learning.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Consultant, Product Manager, Investment Banker, Startup Founder - Law (LLM) — 9 months · English · $69,000/yr
This program offers legal professionals from around the world the opportunity to deepen their understanding of U.S. law and specialize in areas such as business law, environmental law, or international law. Students engage with leading legal scholars and practitioners.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: International Lawyer, Corporate Counsel, Legal Advisor, Judge - Journalism (MA) — 24 months · English · $14,226/yr
This program trains aspiring journalists in investigative reporting, multimedia storytelling, and ethical practices. Students develop skills in writing, editing, photography, video production, and data journalism.
Field: Journalism
Career outcomes: Reporter, Editor, Documentary Filmmaker, Content Creator - Architecture (MArch) — 36 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
The Master of Architecture program focuses on design excellence, critical thinking, and technical proficiency in the built environment. Students explore sustainable design, urbanism, and architectural theory through studio work and research.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Design Consultant, Architectural Researcher - Environmental Science, Policy, and Management (MSc) — 24 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
This program addresses complex environmental issues through an interdisciplinary lens, integrating natural sciences, social sciences, and policy analysis. Students develop solutions for sustainability and resource management.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Policy Analyst, Conservation Scientist, Sustainability Manager - Statistics (MSc) — 12 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
The Master of Arts in Statistics provides rigorous training in statistical theory and methods, preparing students for careers in data analysis, research, and quantitative fields. It covers topics like statistical modeling, inference, and machine learning.
Field: Statistics
Career outcomes: Statistician, Data Scientist, Quantitative Analyst, Biostatistician - Data Science (MSc) — 20 months · English · $73,000/yr · STEM
The Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) program equips students with the skills to analyze and interpret complex data, develop data-driven strategies, and apply machine learning techniques. It covers statistics, programming, and ethical considerations in data science.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Engineer - Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) (MSc) — 24 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
This advanced program offers specialization in various areas of electrical engineering and computer sciences, including integrated circuits, signal processing, computer architecture, and artificial intelligence. Students engage in cutting-edge research and develop expertise for leadership roles.
Field: Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Hardware Engineer, Software Architect, Engineering Manager - Public Health (MPH) — 24 months · English · $14,226/yr
This program prepares students to address complex public health challenges through interdisciplinary approaches. Specializations include epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health sciences, and health policy and management.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Analyst, Epidemiologist, Health Educator, Policy Advisor
PhD Programs (6)
- Bioengineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
The Bioengineering PhD program integrates engineering principles with biological sciences to address challenges in medicine and biotechnology. Students conduct interdisciplinary research in areas like biomaterials, tissue engineering, and medical imaging.
Field: Bioengineering
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biomedical Engineer, Pharmaceutical R&D - History (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,226/yr
This doctoral program offers advanced study and research in various historical periods and regions. Students conduct original research, contribute to historical scholarship, and prepare for careers in academia and public history.
Field: History
Career outcomes: University Professor, Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator - Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
The PhD in Physics program prepares students for careers in research and academia by providing advanced training in theoretical and experimental physics. Students conduct original research under the guidance of faculty, contributing to the frontiers of scientific knowledge.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Data Scientist, Engineer - Molecular and Cell Biology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
The PhD program in Molecular and Cell Biology offers advanced training and research opportunities in areas such as biochemistry, genetics, immunology, and neurobiology. Students conduct original research to understand fundamental biological processes.
Field: Molecular and Cell Biology
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotechnology Specialist, Pharmaceutical Researcher - Civil and Environmental Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in areas such as structural engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering, and geotechnical engineering. Students contribute to sustainable infrastructure and environmental solutions.
Field: Civil and Environmental Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Engineer, Environmental Consultant, Infrastructure Planner - Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,226/yr · STEM
The PhD in Economics program prepares students for careers in academic research, government, and international organizations. It provides rigorous training in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and specialized fields.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist, Policy Analyst, Research Fellow
Scholarships & Tuition at UC Berkeley
Annual tuition for international students: $52,269 – $54,708/year
✅ UC Berkeley offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of UC Berkeley
- National Ranking: #15 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #17
- Times Higher Education (THE): #8
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #5
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at UC Berkeley
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
- Housing cost: ~$2100/month
Key Highlights
- Leading public research university
- Oldest University of California campus
- Exceptional academic programs
- Diverse international student body
- Vibrant campus life
Accreditation
- WSCUC
Notable Alumni
- Steve Wozniak
- Eric Schmidt
- Gordon Moore
- Chris Pine
- Joan Didion
Frequently Asked Questions about UC Berkeley
What is UC Berkeley?
UC Berkeley is a public university located in Berkeley, United States. It has approximately 45,307 students.
How much does it cost to study at UC Berkeley?
Tuition fees at UC Berkeley for international students range from $52,269 – $54,708/year. Student housing costs approximately $2100/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for UC Berkeley?
IELTS minimum: 7. TOEFL minimum: 90. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $95. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: December 1.
What language are courses taught in at UC Berkeley?
Courses at UC Berkeley are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 7.
How many programs does UC Berkeley offer?
UC Berkeley offers 22 programs: 7 Bachelor's, 9 Master's, and 6 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is UC Berkeley ranked?
#15 in United States · QS World #17 · THE World #8 · ARWU #5.
Does UC Berkeley offer scholarships?
Yes, UC Berkeley offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
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