University of California Berkeley: Courses, Fees, and Rankings

The University of California Berkeley, one of the top public schools in the United States, represents the very best in education and research while being committed to serving students of all backgrounds. Founded in 1868, UC Berkeley was the first campus established in the University of California system, and it quickly became a world leader in innovation, social change, and academic Assimilation nations finals. Located in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, UC Berkeley offers a vast range of available fields and numerous degree programs. The University of California Berkeley has an outstanding alumni list, boasting more than 100 Nobel Laureates. Learn everything you need to know about what the University of California & Berkeley offers, from fees, notable alumni, and documentation!

About the University of California Berkeley

The University of California Berkeley emerges as one of the premier public research universities in the United States, and is committed to ensuring that learning is world-class, as well as accessible to its diverse, engaged students. UC Berkeley resides in the San Francisco Bay Area, creating a setting for over 45,000 students (undergraduate, graduate, and professional) to learn. International students coming from all around the world to learn here represent the global community of UC Berkeley, with students coming from over 100 countries. It offers over 350 distinctive degree programs in broad and specialized disciplines to facilitate students in building a sound academic base within their ambitions, moving forward with their individual and career aspirations. The student-to-faculty ratio over here is 19:1, with an average class size of about 30 students. The quantity of collaborative opportunities to engage with faculty and students creates an exceptional educational experience at UC Berkeley. Former U.S. Chief Justice Earl Warren was a successful law student at UC Berkeley, and another famous graduate is Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple.

University of California Berkeley Rankings

The University of California Berkeley is known around the world for its unparalleled academics and research, as well as for its public service. UC Berkeley was rated 10th in the QS World University Rankings 2025! It is consistently ranked in the top echelon of national and global rankings/witness headlines aspects - either best value, accounting firm rankings, best public university; academic reputation, Civil fatigue rationed. 

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University of California Berkeley Courses

The University of California Berkeley offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels of degree programs, which provide students with critical and relevant skills to succeed in an ever-changing world. For non-graduate level students, they can break the mold within popular topics of study such as Computer Science, Business Administration, Political Science, and Environmental Science while also learning to navigate multiple ideas outside their area of expertise. For the graduate academic engagements, it also offers very usable degrees like the Master of Business Administration and Master of Public Policy to gain in-depth skills towards real-world needs. UC Berkeley seeks candidates with a strong interest in PhD-level study. You may learn about their innovations in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, Sociology, and Public Health research-based degrees that showcase their mission to innovate and are a priority for researchers. As a whole, it will support students in countless ways to ensure that students are empowered to envision, lead, and foster change in their communities.

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Undergraduate Courses 

The University of California Berkeley has a wide array of undergraduate programs through its colleges, which offer students academic training along with experiential learning. Some of the most popularly requested majors include Computer Science, Economics, Business Administration, and Molecular & Cell Biology, which prepare students for careers in the leading industry. Below are the top ten undergraduate programs offered at UC Berkeley:

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Postgraduate Courses 

Graduate programs at UC Berkeley demand advanced knowledge, research, and career development in many areas of study. They offer MBA and Public Policy degrees that help students gain skills for leadership roles in top industries and organizations. It is one of the best universities in U.S., providing world-class graduate education. Here are some of the most popular graduate programs at UC Berkeley:

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PhD Courses

The University of California Berkeley is known for its world-class faculty and cutting-edge labs. It provides PhD candidates with unique access to interdisciplinary resources at one of the world’s leading public universities. Popular PhD programs at Berkeley include Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, and many more, each designed to foster groundbreaking research and career success. UC Berkeley is a standout choice for your doctoral studies. Here are some of the popular PhD courses:

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University of California Berkeley Tuition Fees

Colleges and schools within the University of California Berkeley system have different tuition costs and living expenses. Students need to consider costs, including housing, meals, health insurance, books, and personal expenses, which range widely and depend on where you live and your lifestyle choices. Costs may also vary by program, so students should always do their research carefully about the college or department to which they plan to apply. The estimated cost of attendance for a typical in-state undergraduate student is about $19,000 per year (tuition & fees only), while out-of-state or international students can expect about $52,000 per year. International students can pay their fees easily and avoid confusion across different payment systems.

University of California Scholarships

UC Berkeley offers many scholarships based on academic merit, leadership, talent, and financial need. These help make quality education more affordable and accessible to a diverse student body. The Regents' and Chancellor's Scholarship, Fiat Lux Scholarship, and Middle Class Scholarship are some of the notable awards that provide students with partial to fully funded scholarships and ensure that students receive financial assistance for post-secondary education.

If students are looking to minimize their financial burden, amberscholar is a great choice. It offers $12,000 in scholarships, allowing students to pursue higher education at their dream university. Notable scholarships at UC Berkeley are listed below:

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University of California Berkeley Admission Process

The University of California Berkeley offers a clear and structured admission process to help prospective students apply for both undergraduate and graduate programs. By understanding the specific requirements for each program, applicants can make sure their applications are complete and submitted on time. Whether you're interested in majors across different fields, the following step-by-step guide will help you navigate the UC Berkeley admission process smoothly.

Steps for All Applicants

• Apply Online:
  Undergrad: UC Application
  Postgrad: Graduate Division Portal
  
  
• Application Fee:
  UG: $80 (US), $95 (Intl)
  PG: $135 (US), $155 (Intl)
  Fee waivers available
  
  
• Transcripts:
  UG: Submit after admission
  PG: Submit from all colleges attended
  
  
• English Proficiency: TOEFL/IELTS required for non-native speakers (unless exempt)
  
  

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University of California Eligibility Criteria 

The UC Berkeley system consists of many colleges and departments with separate admission policies and procedures. Each college has eligibility based on entering the college properly prepared for the area of study. Eligibility requirements will vary from college to college; program to program; degree level to another degree level; and the specific programs will vary based on whether they require you to meet a UC Berkeley GPA requirement; have completed courses, as part of the eligibility requirement; or completed additional admission materials (portfolios, writing samples, interview). The best way to verify information regarding degree eligibility requirements before submitting your application is to check with the information provided by the particular UC Berkeley program and department.

University of California Berkeley Student Life

UC Berkeley is situated in one of the most lively and student-friendly areas of California, which allows students to learn and live within a safe, engaging as well as supportive community. The campus is centrally located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and there are a number of transit connections (BART, buses, etc.) that allow students to explore other nearby areas, be it Oakland, San Francisco, or any number of nearby places as well. 

Students here have access to many different options for student life and exciting pursuits on- and off-campus. Visiting the amazing Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA), taking a walk at the beautiful Berkeley Marina, or visiting the Greek Theatre to see a local music event are all viable alternatives that exist. For those who want to get outside and enjoy nature, the nearby Berkeley Hills offer an incredible opportunity to hike. The nature trails at Tilden Regional Park are over 2,000 acres, and exploring the UC Botanical Garden allows one to meander through a lovely environment with many interesting plants and exhibits as well.

The Bay Area is a destination for food lovers, and if you are a food lover, you will be excited to see that UC Berkeley students have really great food options. All over campus, there are great places to grab food, whether it is coffee at neighborhood favorite Café Strada or Blue Bottle Coffee or some international options like Cheeseboard Pizza or Comal. 

Why You Should Apply to University of California Berkeley?

Choosing the right university can shape your future, and UC Berkeley stands out as a top choice for students seeking academic excellence, career opportunities, and a supportive community. Here’s why applying to UC Berkeley could be one of the best decisions for your education and career growth:

1. Internship Opportunities

UC Berkeley offers students incredible hands-on opportunities through internships with some of the best companies and research institutions, especially in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Berkeley has strong ties with tech giants like Google and Apple, and top life science firms like Genentech, giving students valuable internship opportunities to boost their careers and skills. Berkeley students are also taking internships with government, non-profits, and world organizations, allowing students to get their hands dirty in the real world and make "real-world" connections.

2. Low-Cost and Affordable Education

UC Berkeley is a first-rate public university and offers a high-quality education that is offered at a lower cost than many private universities. Residents of California pay lower tuition, and it also provides many forms of financial aid, such as grants, scholarships, and work-study. It is also continually trying to make education reasonable and achievable for the international student population by providing resources and support to help clarify financial and academic success.

3. Diverse and Inclusive Campus Community
   UC Berkeley has a diverse, inclusive campus community with students from across the United States and around the world. Berkeley welcomes diversity and community in all forms, and students have a variety of options to participate in cultural organizations, student-led support centers, and anti-racism and equity educational programs. The support offered through these organizational features of the diverse and inclusive campus culture is culturally relevant and significant to all students. As a first-gen college student or as an international student coming from another country, Berkeley is a place where students can receive support, have growth opportunities, and be successful in and out of the classroom.
4. University of California Berkeley Placements

Berkeley supports professional growth through internships, career counseling, and placement services. Graduates work in industries like tech, finance, consulting, healthcare, and public policy. Top employers include Google, Amazon, Meta, Deloitte, McKinsey, and Tesla. The average graduate salary is around $90,000 annually, with higher earnings in fields like computer science and engineering.

University of California Berkeley Notable Alumni

The University of California Berkeley boasts an extraordinary list of alumni who have made a massive impact on technology, politics, literature, science, and public service. Combining an excellent academic reputation with a culture of innovation, Berkeley has produced many individuals who have not only excelled at their craft but have also built the reputation of the institution. Here are 10 notable alumni from UC Berkeley:

1. Steve Wozniak (Class of 1986) – Co-founder, Apple Inc.
   
   
2. Kamala Harris (Class of 1986) – Vice President of the United States
   
   
3. Joan Didion (Class of 1956) – Author and Essayist (deceased)
   
   
4. Gordon Moore (Ph.D. 1954) – Co-founder, Intel (deceased)
   
   
5. Eric Schmidt (M.S. 1979, Ph.D. 1982) – Former CEO, Google
   
   
6. Daniel Kahneman (Ph.D. 1961) – Nobel Laureate, Behavioral Economist (deceased)
   
   
7. Julia Morgan (B.S. 1894) – Architect, Designer of Hearst Castle (deceased)
   
   
8. Barbara Lee (M.S.W. 1975) – U.S. Congresswoman
   
   
9. Leroy Chiao (B.S. 1983) – Former NASA Astronaut
   
   
10. Douglas Engelbart (M.S. 1953, Ph.D. 1955) – Inventor of the Computer Mouse 

University of California Berkeley Student Housing

UC Berkeley has on-campus housing in residence halls and other university-managed facilities, but many students still choose off-campus housing to have added independence and flexibility in their living style. There are a variety of housing options in Southside, Northside and Downtown Berkeley neighborhoods along with others bordering it. They offer multifamily shared apartments with roommates, shared units like studio or single level apartments, and even houses steps away from the university. 

In the UC Berkeley area, off-campus housing can offer fabulous amenities like furnished units, study rooms, fitness room, computer labs, laundry on site, and parking on site. You also have easy everyday commute by way of BART and AC Transit for ease of transportation across the Bay Area. For students looking for convenient and affordable off-campus options, amber offers a variety of student accommodations close to UC Berkeley. With choices ranging from fully furnished apartments to co-living spaces, amber helps students find the right fit for their academic and personal needs. Here are some of the top off-campus housing options near UC Berkeley to explore!

1. Identity Logan Park –Just a 6-minute walk from campus, this vibrant community features a 24-hour fitness center, rooftop sky lounge, and study lounges—fully furnished and modern.
2. Bosco Berkeley – Just an 11-minute walk away, Bosco offers private rooms, shared apartments, and a rooftop terrace, affordable, cozy, and community-oriented.
3. University Park Berkeley – Just 9 minutes from campus, this property offers furnished 1–2 BR apartments, on-site laundry, and secure bike storage—perfect for students seeking simplicity in a quiet area.
4. Stonefire Berkeley – Just 9 minutes from campus, this upscale community features a 24/7 fitness center, outdoor terrace with fire pits, and in-unit laundry.
5. The Standard, Berkeley – Just 1–4 minutes from UC Berkeley, this high-end property offers private study rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and a clubroom—ideal for students seeking convenience and a vibrant atmosphere.