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University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, California · Public

Ranked #1 US News
$15k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

AValue
N/ACampus
A+Academics
A+Admissions
A-Student Life
AOverall

About

University of California-Berkeley is located in Berkeley, California. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 33,073 students.

berkeley.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value
$15kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$14,850
Out-of-state tuition$45,627
Room & board$22,692
Avg aid package$22,000
Students receiving aid27%
Pell grant recipients27%

UC Berkeley, as a public institution, offers a relatively affordable education compared to private universities, especially for California residents. A significant portion of the student body receives financial aid through grants and scholarships, making it accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. While out-of-state tuition can be substantial, the return on investment is high, given Berkeley's reputation and the career prospects it provides.

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Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate12%
Average GPA3.90
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Test optionalYes
Application fee$80

Application dates

Regular DecisionMar 31

UC Berkeley's admissions process is highly selective, with a focus on academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact. The university seeks students who are not only academically strong but also demonstrate intellectual curiosity, creativity, and a passion for learning. A holistic review process considers a range of factors, including grades, test scores (though Berkeley is test-blind), essays, and extracurricular activities.

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Academics

Graduation rate93%
Retention rate97%
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Full-time faculty70%

UC Berkeley fosters a rigorous and intellectually stimulating academic environment. The university is known for its world-class faculty, cutting-edge research, and a wide range of academic programs. Students are encouraged to engage in critical thinking, independent research, and collaborative learning, creating a vibrant and dynamic intellectual community.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$92,446
Avg starting salary$85,000
Job placement rate91%
Internship rate80%
Earn more than HS grad84%
Economic mobility489%
Loan default (3 yr)2%
Loan repayment (3 yr)80%

UC Berkeley boasts impressive career outcomes, with graduates highly sought after by top employers in various industries. The university's strong alumni network and career services provide students with ample opportunities for internships, job placements, and mentorship. Graduates often secure positions in leading tech companies, financial institutions, and research organizations, contributing to their long-term career success.

Student life

Demographics

Large School
33,073Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 56%Male 44%
35% AsianRacial diversity
Asian 35%Hispanic 22%White 20%Black 2%Other 21%
Campus housingYes

UC Berkeley offers a diverse and vibrant campus culture with a wide array of student organizations, clubs, and activities. From cultural groups to sports teams to academic societies, there's something for everyone to get involved in. The campus is also known for its rich history of social activism and a strong sense of community among its students.

Student reviews

Professors

Sophomore

When applying to the school, I didn't do anything special on my application, but I think it might have helped that I applied as a Philosophy major, as opposed to something capped or more popular like Psychology or Econ. Declaring majors are relatively easy, once you have met the requirements (each major has different minimum standards) then you can fill out a major declaration form.

College sophomore

Public Health Is Capped – which means that there's a process of applying and a lot of people aren't accepted into the major. Community service and GPA are taken into account as is an essay response.

Campus and vibes

College freshman

Lots of Asians, Whites, and International People – Many students are from our of country and can't even speak English. I have a question for admissions: Who wrote their application essays?

About University of California-Berkeley

UC Berkeley prioritizes campus safety and security, with a dedicated police department and a range of safety measures in place. Emergency blue light phones are strategically located throughout the campus, and the university works closely with the city of Berkeley to ensure a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff. The university also provides resources and programs to promote awareness and prevent crime.

UC Berkeley offers an Honors Program designed to provide talented undergraduate students with research opportunities and faculty mentorship. Honors students engage in research, receive special advising, and participate in exclusive events. Completion of the program includes the option to complete an honors thesis and receive official recognition on their transcript.

UC Berkeley welcomes international students from around the world, fostering a diverse and global community. The university provides resources and support services to assist international students with visa requirements, language support, and cultural adjustment. The presence of a large international student population enriches the campus environment and promotes cross-cultural understanding.

Endowment$2,976,911,000
Avg faculty salary$242,196

University of California-Berkeley FAQ

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University of California-Berkeley admits about 12% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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