Pace of study:
Full-time, Monday–Friday, 12–18 units per semester
Courses:
You'll take one approved UC Berkeley course and various UC Berkeley Extension courses so that you can focus on your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills and TOEFL test preparation. You'll take a minimum of 12 units and maximum of 18 units total of credit-bearing, in-person courses (online courses are not eligible). Enrollment in all courses is subject to availability.
Suggested course structure: 1 UC Berkeley course +1 TOEFL preparation course + 2 ESL courses + 1 or 2 non-language-focused Extension course(s).
UC Berkeley Extension courses—Recommended courses include:
TOEFL preparation
Two to three ESL courses in academic reading and writing, listening and speaking (required)
Courses related to major or subject of interest (optional)
UC Berkeley Courses—To view available courses, select the academic term and then the subject you are interested in. Upon acceptance into the program, we'll work with you to choose an appropriate UC Berkeley course that meets your English proficiency level so that you can succeed.
If you successfully complete the BGA-Start program, you will have the opportunity to join the BGA Discover program or a program track focused on a specific academic subject. You must maintain a 3.0 GPA and receive recommendations from your instructors and the Program Director before being accepted into a BGA program.
UC Berkeley undergraduate and graduate-level courses must be approved in advance. You must meet listed prerequisite requirements to be eligible for any course.
Cost:
Program Fee Range $10,400—$11,850
Estimated living expenses $10,500 per semester
Estimated cost per semester $20,900—$22,350
Cost includes:
Courses and fees
Visa and housing support
New student orientation
International student fee
Mandatory health insurance
Student advising
Graduate school admissions workshop
Undergraduate research and student learning center resources
Academic transcript
