Working toward obtaining your graduate degree at Berkeley is an exciting and challenging endeavor, but funding your graduate education shouldn’t be your greatest challenge. Many options are available to help you pay for grad school, such as university fellowships, federal need-based loans, external fellowships, campus grants, and teaching and research appointments.

student presents work to a groupAs you research the cost of your education and your financing options, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. The direct costs per year for 2021-22, including graduate tuition and health insurance, are just above $20,000.  Beyond tuition, you’ll need to factor in supplies and lab fees and also be aware that several professional degree programs are subject to different tuition and fee schedules.

The cost of living in the Bay Area, which is significantly higher than the national average, is balanced by the considerable advantages of attending a world-class institution in proximity to vibrant hubs of innovation. While your personal expense budget (including housing, food and transportation) is up to you, you can expect to pay upwards of $28,000 or more per year.

But don’t be put off. Financial aid, fellowships, teaching appointments reduce these costs and covers the cost of tuition and fees for many Berkeley graduate students. The Graduate Division can help you navigate your funding options. 

To get started, review the information on the Financial Aid and Fellowships page. Contact your department to see what department-specific grants and fellowships are available, as well as academic employment opportunities. More information and appointment listings can be found on the Academic Student Employment page. We know you’ll have many questions — check out the FAQ section — and contact us directly if you can’t find the answers you need.