What is the process for international students to apply to UC Berkeley?

You’ll use the same application as U.S. students: the University of California application (https://apply.universityofcalifornia.edu/). There is no separate international portal, and you can apply to multiple UC campuses with the same app, paying for each campus you select. The application typically opens August 1, and you can submit between October 1 and November 30 of your senior year. Make sure you’re clear on these dates, as UCs are strict with deadlines.

For international applicants, there are a few special areas to focus on:

1. Academic Records: You’ll need to self-report your coursework and grades (in English). Keep your official transcripts handy for reference, and remember that Berkeley might request official documents later or if you’re admitted. Your coursework must meet Berkeley’s subject requirements (‘a-g’ pattern). There are detailed instructions on the Berkeley and UC admissions sites about how to match your home country’s secondary coursework to these requirements.

2. English Proficiency: If your high school’s primary language of instruction isn’t English, submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores. Competitive minimums are generally higher than official cutoffs: for the TOEFL iBT, a minimum of 80 is required, but scores above 100 are more competitive. For IELTS, aim for 7.0+ overall. For Duolingo, 120+ tends to be solid. If all your courses are taught in English, this might be waived, but check carefully.

3. Exams: UC schools don’t require SAT/ACT scores for admission, and these are not considered. Don’t spend time worrying about them.

4. Additional Documents: Letters of recommendation are not part of the general UC Berkeley application (except for special invitations), so focus on your Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)—these are UC’s version of essays. International students don’t need to submit extra recommendations or forms unless specifically asked after applying.

5. Timeline: Start prepping your grades and required documents early. Verify your international credentials with your school counselor. Set a timeline for your English proficiency exams so you can submit scores on time.

To stand out as an international applicant, make your PIQs specific and authentic. Focus on a moment or experience unique to your background. For example, you might write about a way you’ve bridged cultures or a challenge you faced adapting to a new system, and how this has shaped your goals or values. Avoid generic topics like just ‘being international’ unless you can offer a concrete, personal story.

Finally, ask for support from your school counselor and teachers, and join online forums for international UC applicants. There are many students who’ve navigated this exact path and can share insight on pitfalls and useful tips.