Resources

At Haas, international students play an important role, bringing a breadth of experience and unique cultural perspectives to our community. About 40% of our MBA students are international — so you will not be making the transition to Berkeley alone!

International Office

The Berkeley International Office is one of the primary resources to help you navigate the visa process and ensure a smooth transition.

Please be aware: this is a general guide for all UC Berkeley students, so there may be items that do not necessarily apply to students at Haas.

If at any point, you are unsure whether you have fully met the requirements listed below or have specific questions, please contact the Berkeley International Office.

2150 Shattuck Ave. Suite 500
Berkeley, CA 94704
Tel: (510) 642-2818
Fax: (510) 643-7289
internationaloffice@berkeley.edu

Quick Tips

To prevent any visa and entrance delays:

Any time you fill out US government forms or apply for US government issued documents, be consistent by using your complete name as it appears in your passport and on your F-1 I-20 or J-1 DS-2019 document issued by Berkeley International Office. Even small variations in the use of your name can create problems.
Keep hard copies of all documents submitted and received.

International Student Requirements

It is important that you plan ahead and begin your paperwork as soon as possible. Applying for F-1 or J-1 student visa documents requires time and patience, and there can be delays.

Requirements for All International Students

Once you have received your official offer letter, you may begin completing these requirements:

Review the New Student Guide

The Berkeley International Office New Student Guide provides general information on visas, housing, money, enrollment, transportation, health as well as tips and fact sheets for entering the US.

Review guide

Submit Your Online NIF

Please complete and submit the online Non-Immigrant Information Form for Fall 2024 admits, regardless of your current or expected US immigration status. This will be used to request your UC Berkeley F-1 or J-1 student visa status.

If you are already in the US in a different immigration status (e.g. H-1B), contact the Berkeley International Office before you complete the NIF.

Start your online NIF

Apply for Your Visa

All non-immigrant visitors (except Canadian citizens) are required to have a valid visa in their passport before they are allowed to enter the US. Visa processing times can be lengthy and there may be waiting periods, so please start as soon as possible. Canadian citizens are not required to apply for a visa to enter the US as an F-1 or J-1, but must still pay the SEVIS Fee and present their I-20 or DS-2019 at the US port of entry. However, if the visitor has "Landed Immigrant" status in Canada, a US visa is required to enter the US.

Start visa process

Complete the iStart 101 Course

This online required course is designed to help you understand the essential resources and responsibilities for all international students at UC Berkeley. You will receive an email invitation once you have successfully completed the NIF requirement.

Begin iStart 101 Course

Complete Online Arrival Confirmation and US Address & Phone Reporting

All new F-1 or J-1 international students are required to confirm their arrival in the U.S. and provide their U.S. address and phone information in order to activate their F-1/J-1 immigration records.

Start confirmation and reporting

Attend the International Transition Workshop

You are strongly encouraged to attend our on-campus workshop for new international students. Get advice to help you smoothly transition into life in Berkeley. Learn about the American classroom and the job search process. This workshop will be held in the first few weeks before Orientation. You will receive an email invitation over the summer with more details.

Additional Requirements for Students in the US

Transferring from Another US School
Please visit the Transfer Student section for more specific information.
Currently on a Non-Student Visa Status
Students changing status to F-1 or J-1 in the US should plan their application with the Berkeley International Office well in advance of starting the MBA program, as this is a more complex process.

Maintaining Your Visa Status

It is very important that you understand the requirements to maintain compliance with your visa status throughout your entire time at Haas.

Basic Guidelines:

Give to Haas

Full-time MBA New Admits