UC Berkeley Admissions Requirements?

Hey everyone! I'm working on my UC application and I want to apply to Berkeley. What are the requirements for admission at UC Berkeley, and any tips on improving my chances?

UC Berkeley, like all University of California schools, follows the same general admissions requirements. Here is a summary of those requirements and additional tips to help you stand out in your application:

1. A-G course requirements: Complete all 15 UC "a-g" required courses with a letter grade of C or higher. These include subjects like history, English, math, laboratory science, etc. Aim for a competitive GPA and a rigorous course load with honors, AP, and/or IB courses to show academic excellence.

2. Extracurricular activities: UC Berkeley values well-rounded students with a "spike" in a particular field, which sets them apart from even other qualified applicants. Passionately pursue and demonstrate leadership in a few activities closely related to your intended major or personal values. Volunteering, clubs, internships, research, sports, and competitions can all contribute positively to your application.

3. Personal Insight Questions: UC schools require applicants to answer 4 out of 8 Personal Insight Questions, with each response limited to 350 words. Use these essays to showcase your unique story, experiences, and aspirations. Highlight your academic and extracurricular strengths, any challenges you faced, and your personal growth. Be reflective, authentic, and avoid cliché topics. CollegeVine's blog contains detailed guidance on how to tackle each of these prompts: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-university-of-california-essays.

4. Test scores and AP/IB credits: Cal State and UC schools, including Berkeley, are currently test-blind. They will not review your SAT or ACT scores during the admissions process. However, Berkeley still accepts AP and IB credits for placement and exemption from certain courses, so it's beneficial to do well on those exams, as strong scores could help you once you arrive on campus.

5. Letters of recommendation: UC Berkeley typically doesn't require letters of recommendation. They may request them on a case-by-case basis during the application review process, but you generally don't need to worry about obtaining them. However, it's not a bad idea to brainstorm some people you might ask in case you do end up needing a letter of recommendation - think of teachers who understand you as a student and a person well, and will be able to offer genuine insight into your potential as a college student.

Moreover, tailor your application to your intended major to show a strong, clear connection between your interests, extracurricular activities, and future goals. And lastly, research UC Berkeley thoroughly to demonstrate a genuine interest in the campus, programs, and opportunities available.

Best of luck with your application!