Checklist for International Students
Welcome to UC Berkeley Summer Sessions!
This checklist is designed to guide you through every stage of your journey, from your initial application to your final days on campus. Use the sections below to stay on track with mandatory requirements, visa documentation, and essential arrival tasks to ensure a smooth and successful summer at Berkeley.
Determine if you are an international student eligible to temporarily take classes at UCB.
Research courses from the Class Schedule (five-digit Class# from the class description is needed to enroll– be sure to write this number down).
Read the sections on our website on Fees, Refund Policy, Deadlines and Academic Policies.
Read the information regarding the English Proficiency Requirement.
Read the section on Visa Information and review the Summer Visiting International Tutorials.
Apply on or after February 17
Applications open in February. Visit the application page and follow the submission instructions. You will need to submit your documentation to meet the English Proficiency Requirement with your application. Documentations for your visa application are submitted after enrolling in classes.
All non-UC visiting students will be required to pay a non-refundable $25 Application Fee.
After you submit your application
Once your application is processed, you will receive via email with instructions to create your UC Berkeley login (CalNet ID). Please allow 2-3 days to receive email instructions.
Log in to CalCentral and complete all required tasks. Certain tasks will be required prior to enrollment.
In CalCentral, enroll in classes and pay the total amount due (look for "Tasks" list in CalCentral dashboard). Once you've paid for your classes, you will be confirmed as a Summer Sessions student.
Note that official notifications will be sent to your UC Berkeley email address. Remember to check it regularly to make sure that you do not miss important and timely notifications regarding housing, billing, or enrollment activity.
Apply for your I-20 visa document by completing the corresponding task in CalCentral and submit a copy of your passport as well as proof of funding.
Receive your Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 or DS-2020) document.
Pay your SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) Fee on the SEVIS fee processing website.
Make an appointment with a US Embassy or Consulate in your area to apply for an F-1 or J-1 visa stamp.
Review the Summer Visiting International Tutorials.
Make housing arrangements as soon as possible after registration.
Secure proof of health insurance.
Review your most up-to-date class schedule in CalCentral.
Review our Preparation and Safety Tips and Safety Brochure.
Travel notes
Research San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport and available ground transportation options to Berkeley.
Make sure you have your I-20/DS-2020 and passport in your carry-on luggage. Do not pack these documents in your checked luggage.
Before classes start
Check into your summer housing and obtain the complete address of your local residence.
Complete the mandatory Online Arrival Confirmation process.
Follow the instructions you received by email to pick up your Cal 1 Card and AC Transit EasyPass.
Attend our virtual Orientation presentation. Information will be emailed to you.
After classes start
Attend your first classes.
Buy textbooks. You can check Cal Student Store for the assigned books for your classes.
Make friends and explore the Bay Area! Attend the Summer Sessions campus events!
For further questions, visit our Berkeley Summer Sessions Help Center.
Log in to CalCentral and pay any outstanding balance.
Contact visiting-intl@berkeley.edu if you plan to travel after your program at UC Berkeley is finished or transfer to another U.S. institution.
Confirm your grades are assigned in CalCentral before ordering an official transcript. See the Office of the Registrar for more information.
Note that your CalNet ID expires 120 days after the end of summer. Update your profile information in CalCentral, such as your mailing address, preferred email address, etc.