Welcome
Berkeley Study Abroad 101
Top 5 Questions That Students Ask
How soon can I study abroad?
You can study abroad or complete a global internship as early as the summer after your freshman year, or if you are a transfer student, as early as your second semester. Many students successfully study abroad multiple times during their academic career.
Do I have to speak a foreign language?
While many students study abroad to learn a new language or strengthen their language skills, you don’t need to speak a foreign language to participate. Berkeley Study Abroad offers an array of programs instructed in English, even where English is not the language of the host country.
Is study abroad affordable?
Some programs are equivalent to, or even less than, the cost of attendance at UC Berkeley. You can apply your financial aid towards both summer and semester participation in study abroad, and many generous scholarships are available. Berkeley is #1 in Gilman Scholarship recipients and our Berkeley Study Abroad Scholarship is available to a broad range of students.
Will I graduate on time?
With advanced planning and coordination with your college and department(s) you can apply courses taken on study abroad to your major, minor, breadth, and general education requirements, allowing you to graduate on a four-year plan.
When is the deadline to apply?
Application deadlines vary by program, but can be as early as 9 to 12 months prior to the term of participation. Use the Explore tool to locate program specific deadlines and application instructions.
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We are excited to help you begin your journey! Our advising team is on-hand to guide you through the study abroad process.
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Adviser Spotlight
Breanne Tcheng"Studying abroad is one of the most transformative educational experiences because it has the potential to foster alternative perspectives, dialogue across difference, and an increased capacity for empathy. I'm excited and eager to support our Cal students to find a program that not only matches their career interests, but will also allow them to explore, be challenged, and grow positively in the process!"