University of California, Berkeley

Admission at University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Berkeley admits about 11% of applicants, which makes it highly selective. Admission is holistic: four years of transcript and course rigor first, then essays and activities, then recommendations and test scores. At this admit rate a strong profile is a reach for everyone; the essays and the activities list are where the decision is made.

GCC applicants: international curricula (IB, American Diploma with APs, A-levels) are read in their own terms. English proficiency tests are usually waived for English-medium schools; check the university's waiver rule. Saudi students on a Ministry scholarship should confirm the programme is on the approved list before applying Early Decision.

University of California, Berkeley supplemental essays, 2026-27

1. PIQ 1: Leadership (choose 4 of 8)350 words

   Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.

2. PIQ 2: Creativity (choose 4 of 8)350 words

   Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

3. PIQ 3: Talent or skill (choose 4 of 8)350 words

   What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

4. PIQ 4: Educational opportunity or barrier (choose 4 of 8)350 words

   Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

5. PIQ 5: Significant challenge (choose 4 of 8)350 words

   Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

6. PIQ 6: Academic subject (choose 4 of 8)350 words

   Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

7. PIQ 7: Community contribution (choose 4 of 8)350 words

   What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

8. PIQ 8: Strong candidate (choose 4 of 8)350 words

   Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

Every US applicant also writes the Common App personal statement: 650 words, seven prompts. Admitify's coach reads drafts line by line and never writes for the student.

Strong for

Computer Science · Engineering · Economics