University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is a public research university in California. Ranked 12th in the world by QS World University Rankings & 8th best university in the world and the top public university in the United States. With an ~11% acceptance rate, UC offers over 350 degree programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. UC Berkeley has many top programs for international students including Computer Science, Econometrics and Quantitative Economics, Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology.
As per Fall 2024 report, University of California system had a record enrollment of 299,407 students. International applicants need to provide copies of transcripts for the equivalent of US grades 9-11, and grade 12 if it has been completed. Applicants from countries with a national exam system are required to send copies of those results as well. The annual tuition for international students at UC Berkeley ranges from $29.7K (~INR 25.77 lakhs) to $78.4K (~ INR 68.49 lakhs).
Here’s what students say about their experience at the UC Berkeley:
Prince Raj (LL.M, Class of 2022) says “UC Berkeley is one of the best universities in the world, but getting in is tough. The admission process can be confusing—especially the GMAT requirement (you need a 720+ score)—but talking to an alum helps. The academics are solid, and professors are knowledgeable. The campus is impressive, and there’s always something happening. However, placements aren’t the strongest compared to other top universities, so networking is key. If you’re applying, don’t rely on consultants—talk to a student instead.”
Adi Mittal (B.S. Nuclear Engineering, Class of 2023) says “UC Berkeley has a great reputation, and its engineering programs—especially Nuclear Engineering—are highly ranked. The location is perfect, with easy access to Silicon Valley for internships. The weather is a plus, and there are plenty of academic opportunities, like minoring in Environmental Policy and Economics. Academics are challenging, but if you stay focused, you can do well. The university gives you everything you need to grow, both personally and professionally. Placements are strong, especially in tech and engineering, but you need to be proactive.”
*To read full review on UC Berkeley, including college life, placements, and admissions: Click Here
The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States and the world. Here’s the year-over-year movement in its QS and U.S. News rankings.
| Ranked by | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. News & World Report | #17 | #17 | #15 |
| QS Rankings | #12 | #10 | #27 |
In 2025, UC Berkeley was ranked the top public university in the United States by Times Higher Education. Additionally, in the Best Colleges List by the Wall Street Journal and Forbes magazine, UC Berkeley was also named America’s top public university.
Also Check: University of California Berkeley Admission
UC Berkeley offers a variety of top programs designed to equip students with specialized knowledge and practical skills. Below is a list of key programs, including their tuition fees and general admission requirements for international students.
| Program | Estimated Tuition Fees/Year | Important Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computer Science | $27,864 (~₹24.2 L) | Fall 2026 Intake Deadline: December 9, 2025 |
| Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Economics | $12,762 (~₹11.1 L) | Fall 2026 Intake Deadline: December 3, 2025 |
| Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) | $12,762 (~₹11.1 L) | Fall 2026 Intake Deadline: December 3, 2025 |
| Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemistry | $27,864 (~₹24.2 L) | Fall 2026 Intake Deadline: December 3, 2025 |
| Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) | $85,406 (~₹74 L) | Round 1: September 12, 2024 Round 2: January 9, 2025 Round 3: April 3, 2025 |
| Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science | $27,864 (~₹24.2 L) | Fall 2026 Intake: December 8, 2025 |
| Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) | $12,762 (~₹11.1 L) | Fall 2025 intake: March 2, 2025 |
| Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences | $12,762 (~₹11.1 L) | Application Deadline: January 6, 2025 (Closed) |
| Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Economics | $13,146 (~₹11.4 L) | Application Deadline: 02 December, 2025 |
| Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business Administration | $13,146 (~₹11.4 L) |
*To know more about other courses, click here.
Applying to UC Berkeley as an Indian student, involves a few essential steps. Here are some general admission requirements you need to know to make your application process smooth:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree (For Graduate Applicants) | A four-year equivalent degree from a recognized institution in a relevant field. For Indian students, a Bachelor’s degree (B.E./B.Tech/B.Sc./B.A.) is typically required. |
| Secondary Education (For Undergraduate Applicants) | Completion of Class 12 (Higher Secondary) with strong academic performance. Must meet UC’s A-G course requirements. |
| GPA Requirement | Minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) required for graduate programs. For undergraduates, students are expected to have an excellent academic record (typically above 85% or equivalent). |
| Transcripts & Degree Certificates | Official transcripts and degree certificates must be submitted. If coursework was completed outside the U.S., students must provide certified translations (if not in English). |
| Test Scores | GRE/GMAT is optional for most programs but recommended for a competitive application. Some departments may require it, especially if the undergraduate degree is ungraded or not equivalent to a four-year U.S. degree. |
| SAT/ACT (For Undergraduate Applicants) | Optional for 2025 admissions due to UC’s test-free policy. However, strong scores may be submitted voluntarily to strengthen applications. |
| English Proficiency Test | Required unless a prior degree was completed in English. Accepted tests and minimum scores: TOEFL iBT: 90 IELTS: 7.0 Duolingo: 115+ (Some departments may require higher scores) |
| Alternative English Proficiency | If test scores do not meet requirements, students may need to complete an English language program before starting coursework. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Graduate Applicants: Three required, preferably from academic or professional referees. Undergraduate Applicants: Not required. |
| Application & Essays | Graduate applicants must submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP) and a Personal History Statement. Some programs may require additional essays.Undergraduate applicants must answer Personal Insight Questions instead of a traditional SOP. |
| Application Fee | PG: $155 (~₹13,529) UG: $95 (~₹8,292 INR) |
| Financial Documents (F-1 Visa Applicants) | Must submit a Declaration of Finances Form proving the ability to cover tuition and living expenses. Bank statements and/or sponsorship letters may be required. |
| Application Deadlines | Undergraduate: November 30 (for Fall intake). Graduate: Varies by program, typically between December and January. |
| Additional Requirements | Some graduate programs may require portfolios (for architecture/design programs), coding samples (for CS programs), or interviews (for business/MBA programs). |
Applications for admission are available beginning in October of the year prior to the year in which you would enter Berkeley. The application filing period is October 1 – December 2. All applications must be submitted by December 2.
Berkeley does not offer applications for early admission or early decision.
| Program/Deadline | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall 2025 Intake | December 2, 2024 |
| Application Start Date | August 1, 2024 |
| Fall Quarter/Semester | October 1 – December 2, 2024 |
| Winter Quarter/Spring Semester | July 1 – July 31, 2025 |
| Berkeley Global Access Program | Priority Deadline: April 4, 2025Final Deadline: June 6, 2025 |
| Berkeley Haas Global Access Program | Priority Deadline: April 4, 2025Final Deadline: June 6, 2025 |
| Berkeley Physics International Education Program | Final Deadline: June 6, 2025 |
For MBA Program:
Decision notification dates:
Here’s a step-by-step table for the UC Berkeley Application Process for International Students:
| Step | Process Details |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Prepare Your Application Materials | Transcripts: Official transcripts from all secondary or post-secondary institutions, in English or with certified translations. Test Scores: SAT/ACT not required (test-free policy). English Proficiency: Required unless schooling was in English. TOEFL iBT: 80 (Berkeley prefers 100), IELTS: 6.5, Duolingo: 115+. Personal Insight Questions: Answer prompts to showcase achievements, experiences, and goals. |
| Step 2: Complete the UC Application | Submit through the UC Application Portal Application Fees: PG: $155 (~₹13,529) UG: $95 (~₹8,292 INR) |
| Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents | Transcripts: Upload unofficial transcripts; official ones required upon admission. English Proficiency Test Scores: Sent directly from the testing agency to UC Berkeley. |
| Step 4: Monitor Your Application Status | Application Confirmation: After submission, you’ll get an email confirmation with a link to create your UC Berkeley login (CalNet ID). CalCentral Portal: Use CalNet ID to track your application, check missing documents, and receive updates. |
| Step 5: Await Admission Decision | Decision Release: Late March for undergraduate applicants. Notification Method: Via email and through the CalCentral portal. |
| Step 6: Post-Admission Procedures | Statement of Intent to Register (SIR): Confirm your enrollment by the deadline. Financial Documentation: Submit proof of funds for I-20 form issuance (required for F-1 visa application). Visa Application: Apply for an F-1 visa using your I-20 at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Housing & Orientation: Secure housing and participate in orientation programs. |
Additional Resources
UC Berkeley offers various scholarships for International students in undergraduate and graduate programs. Here’s a breakdown of available scholarships, eligibility, and award amounts.
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Award Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berkeley Undergraduate Scholarship | California residents or AB540 eligible studentsIncoming freshmen (4.1+ GPA)Transfer students (3.5+ GPA)Continuing students (3.5+ GPA) | Varies based on financial need | Automatically considered upon admission (FAFSA/CA Dream Act due March 2) |
| Fiat Lux Scholarship | Attended a partner high school in California for 3+ yearsU.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen (AB540 included) | Covers full cost of attendance (based on need) | No separate application (considered via admission and financial aid submission) |
| Middle Class Scholarship | Undergraduate studentFamily income and assets up to $201,000 | Varies based on cost of attendance & other aid received | FAFSA/California Dream Act due March 2 |
| Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarship | Exceptional academic achievementLeadership and community serviceFinancial need considered but not required | Minimum $2,500 per year + priority enrollment, faculty mentorship, research funding | No separate application (automatic consideration via admission) |
| African American Initiative Scholarship | African American studentsDemonstrated commitment to leadership and community service | Varies | Details provided upon admission |
| SkyDeck Intern Scholarship | Full-time UC Berkeley undergraduateFinancial aid recipient (Chafee Grant, Pell Grant, Fiat Lux, etc.)Unpaid internship with a SkyDeck startup (min. 15 hrs/week) | Up to $4,000 stipend | Announced via Financial Aid Office |
| New Leader Scholarship | Passion for social justice & leadershipStrong academic recordFinancial need | Varies | Details provided by Financial Aid Office |
Note: Deadlines and award amounts may vary. Always check the UC Berkeley Scholarships Page for updates.
Also Check: Scholarships to Study in USA
Choosing the right university depends on factors like acceptance rate, salary prospects, and ranking. Here are some college comparisons worth exploring, in the same region
*Visit the linked pages for brief comparisons
As per 6figr.com report, Employees at University of California, Berkeley earn an average of $75k, mostly ranging from $70k to $110k based on 52 profiles. UC Berkeley graduates secure positions in top global companies with competitive starting salaries. Here’s a structured overview of salaries & major employers. The average salary offered to graduates & alumni of UC Berkeley according to functions are mentioned below:
UC Berkeley is a top-ranked university offering strong academics, career opportunities, and global recognition. With competitive admissions, world-class faculty, and excellent employer connections, it provides a solid foundation for students pursuing careers in tech, business, research, and more. While the rigorous coursework and large class sizes can be challenging, students who take advantage of Berkeley’s resources, networking, and career support generally find great value in their education.
