The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is one of the most prestigious public research universities in the world, renowned for its academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and vibrant campus life. For students aspiring to study in the USA, UC Berkeley offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities in 2025 to help domestic and international students achieve their educational goals.
This article provides a detailed overview of the 2025 University of California, Berkeley scholarships, including available programs, eligibility criteria, application deadlines, benefits, and step-by-step guidance on how to apply.
University of California, Berkeley Scholarships Details
University of California, Berkeley offers several financial aid options, including need-based aid, merit scholarships, and external funding opportunities.
1. UC Berkeley Undergraduate Scholarships
Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarship
- Eligibility: High-achieving incoming freshmen (domestic and international).
- Award Amount: Up to $10,000 per year (renewable for four years).
- Selection Criteria: Academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular involvement.
- Deadline: Automatic consideration with UC application (November 30, 2024).
Middle Class Scholarship (MCS)
- Eligibility: California residents with family income up to $217,000.
- Award Amount: Varies based on financial need.
- Application: Requires FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (March 2, 2025).
Fiat Lux Scholarship
- Eligibility: Transfer students from California community colleges.
- Award Amount: Up to $5,000 per year.
- Deadline: Varies by college (check UC Berkeley’s financial aid website).
2. UC Berkeley Graduate Scholarships & Fellowships
Berkeley Fellowship
- Eligibility: Incoming PhD and master’s students.
- Award Amount: Full tuition waiver + stipend (up to $40,000 per year).
- Deadline: Department-specific (typically December–January).
Fulbright Scholarships for International Students
- Eligibility: Non-U.S. citizens pursuing graduate studies.
- Award Amount: Tuition, living expenses, and travel grants.
- Deadline: Varies by country (check Fulbright Commission).
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (GRFP)
- Eligibility: STEM graduate students.
- Award Amount: $37,000 annual stipend + $37,000 annual stipend + $12,000 tuition coverage.
- Deadline: October 2025
3. External Scholarships for UC Berkeley Students
Many organizations offer scholarships for UC Berkeley students, including:
- Chevening Scholarships (for UK students, but some apply for U.S. exchanges)
- The Gates Scholarship (for minority students)
- Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (for graduate studies at Stanford, but applicable for joint programs)
University of California, Berkeley Scholarship Programs
University of California, Berkeley offers scholarships across various disciplines, including:
- Engineering (Ranked #3 globally)
- Computer Science (Top-ranked AI and Data Science programs)
- Business & Economics (Haas School of Business)
- Social Sciences (Political Science, Psychology)
- Biological Sciences (Leading research in genomics and health sciences)
University of California, Berkeley Scholarship Requirements
While criteria vary by scholarship, common requirements include:
For Undergraduate Scholarships:
- Strong academic record (minimum 3.5 GPA or equivalent).
- Demonstrated leadership and community service.
- Financial need (for need-based awards).
- U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status (some scholarships are open to international students).
For Graduate Scholarships:
- Admission to a UC Berkeley graduate program.
- Research proposal (for PhD candidates).
- Letters of recommendation.
- GRE/GMAT scores (if required by the department).
For International Students:
- Valid student visa (F-1 or J-1).
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS).
- Some scholarships may require a separate application.
How to Apply for University of California, Berkeley Scholarship
Step 1: Apply for Admission
- Submit the University of California, Berkeley Scholarship Application (for undergraduates) by November 30, 2025.
- Graduate applicants must apply through the UC Berkeley Graduate Division (deadlines vary by program).
Step 2: Complete Financial Aid Forms
- Domestic Students: Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by March 2, 2026.
- Undocumented/DACA Students: Submit the California Dream Act Application.
- International Students: Check department-specific funding options.
Step 3: Apply for Departmental & External Scholarships
- Some scholarships require separate applications (e.g., Berkeley Fellowship, Fulbright).
- Search for external scholarships via platforms like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and UC Berkeley’s Financial Aid Office.
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
- Transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Proof of financial need (if applicable)
Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, or international student, UC Berkeley offers numerous pathways to make your academic dreams a reality. Start your application today and take the first step toward joining one of the most prestigious institutions in the world.
For more details, visit the UC Berkeley Financial Aid Office or the Graduate Division Funding Page.
