Application Process

It’s never too early or late to begin exploring what Berkeley has to offer, so start now. With more than 200 programs to choose from, we want you to find the program that is the best fit for you and your goals.

• Browse our graduate our programs & deadlines and click on each program you might be interested in. Navigate to their department websites to learn about the curriculum, career outcomes, alumni profiles, and more.
• Only one degree or one concurrent degree program may be applied to per term; joint or cotutelle programs with other universities are not offered.
• For tips on how to find the best program for your goals, visit our Admissions page.
• Schedule a campus tour to get a feel for life at Berkeley.
• Learn how our students fund their graduate education.

Once you’ve selected your program, mark the application deadline on your calendar, and start to review and prepare your application requirements. Create an action plan with deadlines to help you stay on track. Applications are due by 8:59 PM PST on the deadline date.

If you have questions or need accommodations for extenuating circumstances, reach out to the program directly.

As you prepare your application, review the minimum admissions requirements. Many programs have additional application requirements, so it’s important to thoroughly research and read the program’s admissions website. Find your program’s website to learn more.

Here are some helpful resources:

• Read the Admissions FAQ for commonly asked questions and answers.
• Take required tests.
• Request unofficial academic transcripts.
• Identify and contact your recommenders.
• Write your Statement of Purpose and Personal Statement.
• Other tips to prepare your application
• If you are a US citizen or current permanent resident, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Visit Requesting an Application Fee Waiver for details.

Ready to apply? If you are applying to Berkeley for the first time, please create a new account. If you are reapplying to Berkeley, login to your existing account.

You can start your online application in mid-September and complete the applicable sections. To submit your application, please pay the non-refundable application fee by the application deadline.

Some programs—such as Haas Business, Berkeley Law(opens in a new tab), Optometry OD(opens in a new tab), Public Health On-Campus MPH(opens in a new tab), Information Data Science MIDS,(opens in a new tab) and Cybersecurity MICS(opens in a new tab) —require separate applications through their respective schools.

After the deadline passes the program will check if your application is complete. Once your application is determined complete – it is ready for review. The admissions committee in your program of interest will begin the holistic, careful review process over the coming months. This process is based on many factors including your goals, relevant work or research experience, life experiences, essays, letters of recommendation, academic records, and more.

You can check the status of your application materials via your application status portal page. If you need to make any changes or need to provide additional application materials, please contact your program.

Once an admission decision has been made, you will be notified via email when your application status has changed. As each program has a different application review timeline, you may receive your decision as early as January and as late as June. If you receive a fellowship offer, you will receive a separate email with details.

If you have been offered admission, you will be asked to accept or decline the offer via your application status portal page. Read more about how to accept your offer and next steps as an incoming student.