Berkeley Scholarships for International Students: A Comprehensive Overview

UC Berkeley is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. While federal and state financial aid are generally unavailable to international students, UC Berkeley offers several institutional scholarships to support undergraduate international students.​Financial Aid & Scholarships


🏆 Prestigious Scholarships for International Students

UC Berkeley provides the following scholarships to international undergraduates:​

  1. Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarship: The university’s most prestigious undergraduate scholarship, awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate creativity, leadership, service, and strong convictions. All admitted international students are automatically considered for this scholarship. ​Financial Aid & Scholarships
  2. Robinson International Scholars Program: Established in 2022, this program supports select international students who are refugees or stateless individuals from Sub-Saharan African nations. Recipients receive the full benefits of the Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarship in addition to the Robinson International Scholarship. ​Financial Aid & Scholarships+1Financial Aid & Scholarships+1
  3. Rodriguez-Pastor Family Scholarship: This need-based scholarship supports talented international students from Peru and other South American countries who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact. Priority consideration is given to students from Peru. ​Financial Aid & Scholarships
  4. Swaniker Scholars Program: In partnership with ALX Africa, this program supports talented students from across the African continent who demonstrate academic excellence, character, leadership, and high potential. Swaniker Scholars receive a need-based scholarship covering up to the full cost of attendance for four years. ​Financial Aid & Scholarships

💰 Financial Aid for International Students

While institutional scholarships are available, international students may also apply for need-based financial aid through the Berkeley International Office (BIO). BIO offers the following financial assistance:​International Office+2International Office+2International Office+2Financial Aid & Scholarships

  • Undergraduate Tuition and Fees Grant: A need-based grant that can be applied for once per semester. It is paid directly toward the tuition and fees balance in the semester that you apply. Grants do not need to be repaid. Undergraduate students may only receive this grant twice. ​International Office
  • Need & Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships take into account both financial need and academic achievement. They are awarded in the fall only but are disbursed in two portions: once in fall and once in spring. Scholarships do not need to be repaid. There is no limit to the number of times a student may receive this scholarship. International Office

📊 Financial Aid Overview

Scholarship ProgramEligibilityCoverage
Regents’ and Chancellor’s ScholarshipAll admitted international studentsVaries; typically covers full tuition
Robinson International Scholars ProgramRefugees or stateless individuals from Sub-Saharan AfricaFull cost of attendance
Rodriguez-Pastor Family ScholarshipInternational students from Peru and South AmericaNeed-based; varies
Swaniker Scholars ProgramStudents from Africa nominated by ALX AfricaFull cost of attendance
Undergraduate Tuition and Fees GrantInternational students with unexpected financial needPartial tuition and fees
Need & Merit-Based ScholarshipsInternational students with financial need and academic achievementPartial tuition and fees

📝 Application Process

  1. Apply for Admission: Submit your application for undergraduate admission to UC Berkeley.​
  2. Submit Financial Aid Application: Complete the necessary financial aid applications as specified by UC Berkeley.​
  3. Provide Required Documentation: Submit any required documents to support your financial aid application.​
  4. Await Notification: Once your application is reviewed, you will be notified of any scholarship or financial aid awards.​

🌐 Additional Resources


In conclusion, UC Berkeley offers a range of scholarship and financial aid opportunities for international students. By understanding the available programs and following the application processes, international students can make their education at UC Berkeley more accessible and affordable.​

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