Prospective Transfer Student FAQs
| What makes Berkeley different from other universities? |
Ask this question to one hundred different people on campus and you’ll receive one hundred different answers. Topping the list, though, are UC Berkeley’s:
- History as the founding campus of the University of California, chartered in 1868.
- World-class instruction with 7 Nobel Laureates currently on the faculty.
- Ranking as the No. 1 public university in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report (2008).
- True diversity with no single ethnicity holding the majority and more than 100 countries represented in the undergraduate student body.
- Unrivaled location where you can surf, hike and snowboard all in one day; plus, San Francisco is just a short ride away.
| What kind of classes do you offer in my major? |
With more than 100 designated majors, plus the option to custom design your own, Berkeley’s course offering is as diverse as its student body. Whether you want to take Native American Law, International Trade or Bioastronautics, search online by curricula or course to find a world of options. For a list of majors, see our Viewbook brochure on our Online Publications page.
| How do I find out more information about Berkeley student life? |
Since college isn’t just about classes and grades but rather is a total package of intellectual, emotional and social growth, Cal’s Office of Student Life is there to help you get involved and stay connected to over 700 different activity groups. Can’t find anything you like? Start your own club!
| How do I apply to Berkeley? |
Berkeley uses the UC common application, so you only have to submit one application for any and all of the UC campuses. The best way to apply is online. It produces the most complete application, but you can also print out a copy and send it in or ask that a form be sent to you.
The fall application is available in October of the previous year of application (for example, the fall 2009 application is available in October 2008), and you have the month of November to file. The deadline for all applicants is November 30. Berkeley doesn’t have an Early Decision or Early Action plan. Complete application timetable and other information are at Fall 2009 Applicants.
| Does Berkeley require faculty or counselor recommendations? Should I have an interview? |
No. If we need more information from you, we’ll let you know. We also don’t conduct admissions interviews.
| Which of my community college courses will transfer for Berkeley credit? How much? |
The ASSIST website has all of the information on transferable course credit for California community colleges and other schools in the UC and CSU systems. If you earned credit at another college or university, those courses will be evaluated after you apply.
| Will I get college credit for my AP or IB courses? How much? |
Yes. You can get credit for AP scores of 3 or above and/or for IB (higher-level) exam scores of 5 or above. The amount of credit will depend on your score and the College you’re applying to. Learn more in our Quick Reference Guide.
| Does Berkeley have Pre-medical and Pre-law programs? |
Berkeley has excellent programs to prepare you for graduate or professional schools and high success rates for those applying to top law and medical schools. For more details on these programs, see the Pre-Law or Pre-Med flier on our Online Publications page.
| Who do I talk to about playing for Berkeley sports teams? |
Berkeley is part of the PAC-10 Conference (Go Bears!) So if you’re interested in playing D-I at Cal, have your coach contact our coach. You can also find out more about NCAA recruiting practices at CalBears.com.
| What does it take to get into UC Berkeley? |
This is a difficult question because every student has individual strengths and weaknesses. That’s why every application is read and evaluated in a comprehensive review process.
Transfer admission is limited to students who have or will have completed at least 60 UC-transferable semester units by the end of the spring term of the current semester. As a transfer applicant, you must indicate your intended major on the UC application and our review will be based on the completion of prerequisite courses for the particular Berkeley academic program to which you applied; therefore, the college course work you take is very important. For more details, see the Transfer Admission flier on our Online Publications page.
| What are my chances of getting into Berkeley? |
Berkeley is among the most selective universities in the country, becoming more competitive each year. Generally the campus is able to admit about one in three transfer applicants.
| How important is participating in extracurricular activities? |
From Taiko to the Rubberband Club, leadership, passion and talents abound at Cal. A diverse student body where interests run the gamut creates a vibrant campus. In our comprehensive review, you will be looked at as a total person. Sustained passion for and involvement in extra-curricular activities help us see your potential as a leader and your ability to contribute to our campus community. So achievement in these areas may influence our decision, but it may or may not be a deciding factor.
Transfer students do not always have the option of participating in extracurricular activities, but other qualities and experiences can demonstrate your strengths in the areas of leadership, talent, passion, commitment and the ability to achieve in the face of challenges.
| What should I write about in my Personal Statement? |
The Personal Statement is a chance to let us see a part of you that isn’t revealed in your courses, grades, and list of activities. Before you begin writing, though, check out the Personal Statement section in our Transfer Admission flier on the Online Publications page.
| What does it cost to attend Berkeley and how do I apply for financial aid/scholarships? |
Whether you’re planning on living on campus, off campus or with your parents, check out our Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid chart to get an idea of what it costs in the 2007-2008 year. Our Financial Aid FAQs for Prospective Students can help you in applying for aid.
| Is there financial aid available for undocumented students? |
If you are an undocumented student, you can’t get state or federal financial aid, but there are websites like Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Salvadoran-American Leadership and Educational Fund, Educators for Fair Consideration and Fastweb.com that have scholarship information.
| How can I talk to an admissions representative? |
Check to see if a Berkeley rep is visiting your California community college or attending a pre-college program in your area. You can also call our office at 510-642-3175 to talk with an admissions officer Monday-Friday, between 9 am and noon and 1 pm and 4pm (PST).
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