UC Berkeley Global Online and Visiting Student Programs

Greetings From Berkeley!

For the past few years, UC Berkeley has been ranked the Number One global public university. We are proud of this achievement as our mission is to provide a world-class education to a global community of learners:

• 24% or 10,000 of our students come from countries outside of the United States

• Students are coming from 92 different countries across the globe

We offer top-ranked academics taught by renowned faculty who inspire you to think about the world in new ways. We’re located near San Francisco and Silicon Valley—giving you unique access to the world’s epicenter for technology and innovation. 

Take advantage of our Career Services opportunities, which includes partaking in a professional internship, career development and more!

Programs for University Students

Whether you choose to study for one semester or a full academic year, you'll take a variety of courses on campus to complete your undergraduate or graduate requirements and refine your English skills.

Berkeley Global Access (All Majors)

Explore a variety of courses based on your academic interests. Pick and choose from a select list of classes to fit your academic goals.

Berkeley Haas Global Access Program (Business)

Study at the top-ranked public business school in the U.S. Visit Silicon Valley companies. Become eligible for Optional Practical Training.

Berkeley Global Chemistry Visiting Student Program (computational chemistry or chemical biology)

One-semester or academic-year program at the #1 Chemistry program in the world. Enhance your graduate school appication or start your chemistry or STEM-related career. Research opportunities in our world-renowned laboratories are also available.  

Berkeley Physics International education program 

One-semester or academic-year program to take advantage of rigorous physics courses and unique research opportunities to enhance your educational experience. Course offerings include quantum mechanics, atomic physics, solid state physics, biophysics, string theory, cosmology, thermal and statistical physics, data science and more! 

Visit global.berkeley.edu for additional details.

Location

Berkeley

The city of Berkeley is home to 121,000 residents. This bustling town features organic farmers’ markets, more than 350 restaurants, and numerous trails and walking tours. 

San Francisco

Explore one of the world’s most visited cities. Hop on a streetcar, shop in Union Square, grab fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, take in a baseball game or wander around our many culturally diverse neighborhoods. 

Silicon Valley

The innovation capital of the world, where you’ll find companies such as Google, Apple, Facebook and more.

Lake Tahoe

The perfect place to ski and snowboard, enjoy lake activities or hike in the mountains.

We’re also a short plane ride from Los Angeles and Las Vegas. 

Housing 

Choosing where to live depends on your interests, preferences and budget. You can choose private or shared apartments, or live with a family through a homestay. Visit extension.berkeley.edu/international/housing for full details.

Student Services

We have an entire office dedicated to support you. 

Attend our new student orientation, where you will meet other students and staff, and receive your schedule and other important information. Take advantage of a wide range of services, including:

• Pre-arrival webinars
• One-site academic, health insurance and visa advising
• Housing advice and support
• Cross-cultural training
• Social activities
• Resume and interview workshops
• Internship, career and/or graduate school advising

Inside the Classroom, Exploring Our Beautiful Cities