Berkeley Physics International Education (BPIE)

Smiling students giving peace signs

An Undergraduate, Visiting Student Program Offered by UC Berkeley

The Berkeley Physics International Education (BPIE) Program is a non-degree program that hosts visiting students from around the world, offering international undergraduates the opportunity to study at UC Berkeley for one semester or one year.

Be a Part of a World-Famous Department

Our Physics Department, on the beautiful UC Berkeley campus, is one of the top-ranked graduate programs in the world. It is home to faculty and students who are devoted to scientific discovery, teaching, learning, and participation in cutting-edge research. Of the 22 Nobel Prizes awarded to UC Berkeley faculty, approximately one-third are from Physics! The UC Berkeley Physics Department is proud to have nine faculty members and seven alumni as Nobel Prize winners.

Current Application Period
Deadlines

Apply Here

Academic Opportunities

Complete UC Berkeley courses that will count toward credit at your home universities. Course offerings include quantum mechanics, atomic physics, solid state physics, biophysics, string theory, cosmology, thermal and statistical physics, data science and more at the #1 public university in the US.

Details about the BPIE Program

Including curriculum and Physics Research and Faculty. 

“I loved how one-on-one the experience was… You really get to know your professors through your classes and in office hours. ” - Albert L.

BPIE students tour the Haeffner Lab

Program Benefits

  • Major Program designated advising with professional advisors in the UC Berkeley Physics Department
  • Study physics with some of the world’s brightest students and most distinguished faculty
  • Exclusive faculty-BPIE student lunches allowing visiting students an opportunity to meet and hear from our faculty about their academic experience and research while enjoying lunch in a small and informal setting
  • Participate in research lab tours
  • Learn about research at our Annual Undergraduate and Graduate Poster Sessions (Spring Semester)

"This experience is very helpful for those who want to apply to grad school in the US but haven't had connections in the US." - Joey H.

Grow Your Professional Network

It's all about who you know! Make academic connections here at Berkeley that will help you uncover opportunities in the US and abroad for research, Ph.D. programs, and more. Events include workshops, Career Exploration Panels, and exclusive faculty/visiting student lunches allowing students in our programs opportunities to meet and hear from our faculty about their academic experience and research while enjoying lunch in a small and informal setting.

Learn About Cutting-Edge Physics Research

Learn about cutting-edge physics research on our campus only offered to Berkeley Physics students and our BPIE visiting students.

List of Course Offerings

A list of course offerings can be found HERE

Explore California!

Join us for field trips around the San Francisco Bay Area.

Questions?

You can reach us HERE

Student using lab equipment

"Participating in the BPIE program has been a life-changing experience, offering me invaluable opportunities to explore cutting-edge scientific research and engage in cross-cultural exchange. It has not only enhanced my professional skills but also allowed me to form lifelong connections with like-minded individuals. This journey will always hold a special place in my heart." - Chunbo L.

Cost of the BPIE Program

$21,900 for one semester* plus additional fees (see below)
$43,800 for a full year* plus additional fees (see below)

Additional Fees

For a comprehensive review on Fees & Costs, including cost of living, please visit the BPIE section on Berkeley Global.

* Based on current rates through June 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Open to students who have completed at least 1 year of undergraduate studies and recent college graduates
  2. Minimum 3.0 GPA in Physics
  3. Must meet all course prerequisites
  4. Additional English proficiency requirements for international students: TOEFL*: 90 (iBT)/IELTS*: 7/Duolingo*: 125

* An interview, online or in-person, may be required

Apply Here

How To Apply

You Will Need to Provide

  1. A statement of purpose
  2. An official copy of your transcript
  3. Indicate length of study: one or two semesters
  4. A list of courses planned for each term (prerequisites are enforced)
  5. One letter of recommendation (on official letterhead, when applicable)
  6. For international students: proof of English-Language Proficiency and a copy of your passport identification page

See You at Berkeley!