University of California, Berkeley (UCB) Admissions 2025: Requirements & Deadlines

University of California, Berkeley Admission 

The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is one of the most prestigious public research universities in the world. It is considered as one of the best competitive research universities in USA, attracting thousands of international students every year. 

Berkeley offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across arts & humanities, engineering, business, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional schools. The campus enrolls over 10,000+ international students from over 100 countries for undergraduate, postgraduate and MBA programs. 

Key Highlights of the University of California, Berkeley: 

Connect with upGrad’s experts for a book a free 1:1 counseling session to explore course options, career pathways, and more.  

For detailed information about the university, check out the University of California Berkeley page. 

University of California, Berkeley Admission Dates & Deadlines 

UC Berkeley offers a Fall intake as the primary admission cycle and limited Spring intake options for certain graduate programs. Students planning to apply should carefully track filing windows and program-specific deadlines. 

Fall intake 

The Fall intake is the primary admission cycle at UC Berkeley, covering most undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Early preparation is crucial, as UC Berkeley admissions are highly competitive. 

Below are the typical dates and deadlines for Fall intake: 

Spring Intake 

The Spring intake is limited and available for selected postgraduate courses. International students planning for Spring admissions should apply early to secure a place, as the number of courses offered is fewer compared to the Fall intake. 

Below are the typical dates and deadlines for Spring admission: 

UC Berkeley Haas does not offer a Spring intake for its full-time MBA. 
Admissions are only for the Fall intake, with deadlines spread across three rounds (September, January, March) 

Curious about the courses UC Berkeley offers? Check out 200+ University of Caliornia Berkeley Courses and see which one matches your interests! 

H2: University of California Berkeley Admission Process 

The University of California Berkeley admission requirements differ for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants, but both follow a structured process. Students should review program pages carefully before applying. 

Below is a step-by-step layout that mirrors the structure in your doc but uses Berkeley’s official steps: 

Step 1: Choose your course and check eligibility requirements: 

• Explore UC Berkeley’s program pages to select your desired undergraduate major or graduate program. 
• Review UC admission requirements (A–G subjects for undergraduates, GPA/prerequisites for graduate programs). 

Step 2: Prepare required documents 

• Undergraduate applicants need to report grades, activities, and personal insight questions in the UC application. 
• Graduate applicants should gather transcripts, statement of purpose, CV, recommendation letters (if required), and proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)

Step 3: Submit your application online 

• Undergraduates apply through the centralized UC application system for all UC campuses. 
• Graduate and professional applicants apply via the Graduate Division or program-specific portals (e.g., Haas MBA). 

Step 4: Receive acknowledgment and track progress 

• After submitting, you’ll receive an email confirmation and access to the Berkeley applicant portal. 
• Use the portal to monitor your application status and any required next steps. 

Step 5: Attend interviews or provide additional details (if required) 

• Undergraduate applicants are not interviewed. 
• Some graduate and professional programs (like Haas MBA) may invite candidates for interviews or request additional information. 

Step 6: Get your admission decision and offer letter 

• First-year applicants usually receive decisions in March (for fall entry). 
• Admitted students get instructions for submitting transcripts, financial aid forms, and other required documents. 

Step 7: Accept the offer and complete final arrangements 

• Accept your offer through the Berkeley portal and submit official documents by the stated deadlines. 
• Arrange housing, finalize financial aid, and seek visa support from the Berkeley International Office (for international students). 

University of California Berkeley MBA Admissions 

The University of California, Berkeley’s MBA programs are offered through the Haas School of Business. Haas provides MBA in various formats, including the Full-time MBA, Evening & Weekend MBA, and Executive MBA.  

Each program has its own application rounds, deadlines, eligibility criteria, and scholarship opportunities.  

MBA Admission Requirements

The UC Berkeley MBA program, offered by the Haas School of Business, is one of the top business programs in the world. International students applying for the MBA must submit applications in different rounds. Early applications are recommended to maximize chances of admission and scholarship consideration. 

The Full-time MBA follows a round-based admission system, giving international students multiple opportunities to apply throughout the year. 

MBA Scholarships 

UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business offers a range of scholarships to support international students and reduce the cost of MBA study. These include merit-based awards, fellowships, and diversity-focused programs. 

Here are some scholarships available for MBA students at UC Berkeley: 

University of California Berkeley MS Admissions 

UC Berkeley offers various MS programs in fields like engineering, science, business and art, that help build advanced expertise and skills in innovation and leadership.  

The curriculum includes practical training and close ties to industry, particularly through Berkeley’s strong presence in the Bay Area and Silicon Valley. This approach ensures graduates are not only academically prepared but also industry-ready. 

MS Admission Requirements 

To gain admission into UC Berkeley’s MS programs, applicants must meet academic and English proficiency requirements while also submitting essential documents, along with a strong academic background. Starting early with the document preparation helps to prevent any last-minute delays. 

Here are the admission requirements for MS programs at UC Berkeley: 

H3: MS Scholarships 

UC Berkeley offers various financial support scholarships for international MS students, primarily through departmental fellowships and external sources. Many programs and departments also provide funding opportunities based on academic excellence and research potential. 

Here are some scholarships available for MS students: 

University of California, Berkeley: Other Postgraduate Courses Admission 

UC Berkeley offers a wide selection of postgraduate programs in fields such as law, engineering, business, social sciences, humanities, and journalism. These courses are designed to combine academic depth with practical skills, giving graduates an edge in global careers. 

Other PG Course Admission Requirements 

Applicants must meet program-specific criteria and international students must demonstrate proficiency in academic and professional skills. Some programs may also require portfolios or interviews as part of the selection process.  

Here’s a detailed table outlining admission requirements for other PG courses: 

University of California, Berkeley: Bachelor’s Admission 

University of California, Berkeley’s undergraduate admissions are processed through the UC application with selection criteria, which is based on academic achievement (A-G completion), grades, and the Personal Insight Questions that provides a student’s background, contributions and potential.  

Berkeley evaluates applicants holistically and publishes a student profile each cycle to show mid 50% GPA. 

Advantages of Getting into University of California, Berkeley for a Bachelor’s 

The University of California Berkeley offers students a supportive environment that combines academics, career development, student engagement, financial assistance, and international guidance. Applicants can access multiple resources throughout their journey, ensuring both academic success and personal growth on campus. 

• Academic excellence and research opportunities: Students learn from experienced faculty, take part in research projects, and make use of well-equipped labs to build knowledge and skills. 
• Career and industry links: Berkeley’s close ties with employers and its location near Silicon Valley open doors to internships, job opportunities, and career guidance. 
• Student societies and campus life: A wide variety of student groups, cultural centers, and community programs help students connect, participate, and grow beyond academics. 
• Financial aid and scholarships: The university offers a mix of state and campus-based scholarships and aid programs to support eligible students. 
• Support for international students: The Berkeley International Office provides visa guidance, orientation programs, and ongoing help to make the transition smoother. 

What are the Admission Requirements for Bachelor’s? 

To apply for undergraduate programs at De Montfort University, it is important for international students to meet academic and English proficiency test standards. Collecting and preparing the required documents in advance ensures a smooth application process and timely consideration. 

Below are the University of California Berkeley admission criteria for undergraduate courses: 

Bachelor’s Scholarships at University of California, Berkeley 

UC Berkeley offers various merit-based scholarships for international students to reward academic achievement and extracurricular excellence. These scholarships reduce tuition costs and make studying in USA more accessible. 

Here are some bachelor’s scholarships provided by University of California Berkeley: 

University of California, Berkeley Student Support Services 

UC Berkeley offers numerous support services to assist students for their campus life and pursue their academics. These services are meant to ease student life, ranging from orientation programs and academic assistance to career services, mental health services, and housing assistance. 

• Orientation and first-year programs: Structured onboarding programs help students adjust to campus life, academic expectations, and community involvement. 
• Academic tutoring: Departmental advisors and the Student Learning Center provide guidance, tutoring, and resources to support academic success. 
• Career advice and mentoring: Career fairs, workshops, and internship support connect students with employers and future opportunities. 
• Counseling and mental health services: Campus wellbeing resources offer professional support for mental health, stress management, and personal development. 
• Cal Student Central services: A student service body assists students with financial aid, billing, course registration, and related administrative needs. 
• Housing assistance and guidance: Resources and services help students explore on-campus housing options and provide additional support for international students.  

University of California Berkeley admissions are highly competitive, but with careful preparation and a strong application profile, it is achievable. The university offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support students from diverse backgrounds, including international students. 

To increase your chances: 

• Start early and plan your application timeline strategically. 
• Build a strong profile with excellent academics, compelling essays, and meaningful extracurricular involvement. 
• Submit your application well before the deadlines to avoid last-minute challenges.