UPDATED MAY 2024
BISP welcomes students who wish to study abroad at the world-renowned University of California at Berkeley.
Why Berkeley
The University of California, Berkeley is famous for its top scholars, social activism, innovation, and diverse student body. Our professors are some of the best in their fields, engaged in ground-breaking research, innovative thinking and service to society. The campus is vibrant and alive with students from California and all over the world who actively engage in campus life in many different ways. Study and learn from the best.
The year that UC Berkeley was originally founded
Worldwide ranking (based on U.S. News & World Report)
Number of faculty and alumni Nobel Prize winners affiliated with Berkeley over the course of its history
Experience Brilliance
BISP students take the same high-quality courses as UC Berkeley students on a space availability basis. BISP works with partner departments and instructors to identify courses that have space; hundreds of courses do, and in turn BISP students provide a globally rich academic learning experience for all.
Between 300-500 visiting international students each semester enjoy the experience of participating in class discussions and engaging in unique ways of learning. BISP students return to their home universities happy with the courses they have taken, which in most cases count for credit towards their degree. Students also find that studying abroad at UC Berkeley, and succeeding in their academic courses, is an impressive experience to put on their resume.
Largest recorded number of BISP students (Fall 2019)
19 years since BISP was created
Number of BISP participating departments at UC Berkeley
Moreover, BISP students participate in a rich campus life. Whether you seek athletics, cultural performances or the outdoors, UC Berkeley has it. BISP staff and Cultural Peer Mentors ensure a warm and welcoming environment for all.
So come, Experience Brilliance with us!
- Earn UC Berkeley credit
- Take courses unavailable at your university
- Gain new perspectives on subjects studied at home
- Get support from a dedicated team of advisors and peers
- Make international and California friends
- Engage in campus life through sports, clubs and social events
- Explore the San Francisco Bay Area
- Contribute to the lively multinational culture of Berkeley
- Prepare for graduate study and future career growth
- Build intercultural competencies
Our world renowned Berkeley college mascot
At UC Berkeley (more than any other university in the world!)
In 2024, Cal Olympians tie school record with 23 Medals
Eligibility
Partner Universities: Students from one of our university partners should apply at their home university. The majority of BISP students are nominated by their home universities.
Independent students: Individual students who do not attend one of these BISP partner universities may apply directly to BISP.
English Proficiency
- TOEFL 90
- IELTS 7.0
- Duolingo 125
To inquire about other tests, please contact us.
Enrollment Requirements
All visiting students on an F-1 student visa to study in the United States must take a minimum of 12 semester units or credits. Your home university may require additional units while you study abroad. For example, students from European universities must take the equivalent of 30 ECTS points, which corresponds to 15 semester units at UC Berkeley.
Berkeley’s motto instilled within every student
Over 1400 student groups currently on the UCB campus
Books, audio, video, paintings, lithographs, costumes and more!