International students are an important part of the UC Berkeley community and contribute a unique global perspective. Over the past year, the Berkeley campus welcomed thousands of international students as well as thousands of international visiting scholars. Visit the UC Berkeley Graduate Division Resources and Services page the for more information on international applicant requirements.
Transcripts
English translations are required for transcripts in all languages except Spanish. English versions must be issued by the degree-awarding institution or by a certified ATA translator. The ATA number must appear on the certification to be considered, and notary certification is not acceptable.
We do not accept third-party evaluations (i.e., WES).
In addition to the general requirements, you will need to upload the following documents as part of your application:
- Transcripts in the original language and in English translation.
- Degree certificate(s) (with title awarded and conferral dates) in the original language and in English translation.
If you have extenuating circumstances preventing you from obtaining transcripts, contact our Admissions Coordinator.
GPA Requirements
International students are not required to submit a GPA if grades are not scored using the system presumed in the general admissions requirements.
Evidence of English Language Proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
TOEFL or IELTS scores are required from all applicants from countries in which the official language is not English (please see the UC Berkeley Graduate Division website for exceptions to this policy). Note: This requirement applies to U.S. citizens who have obtained their basic degrees from an institution outside the United States.
If you have completed at least one year of full-time academic coursework with grades of B or better in residence at a recognized U.S. institution, you do not need to take a standardized test. Instead, you need to upload an unofficial transcript from the recognized U.S. institution.
For the internet-based TOEFL test (IBT), your most recent score needs to be a 90 or higher.
We will accept scores from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) in place of the TOEFL.
All standardized tests must have been taken within the past two years.
Guidelines on demonstrating English language proficiency through the TOEFL or IELTS exams are outlined on the UC Berkeley Graduate Division website. Please note that US citizenship, work-experience and residency do not qualify for waivers.
Campus Visits
When selecting which admissions cycle to apply to, we recommend International applicants review US visa regulations and consider their home country’s timeline for processing visas.