Learn more at the Fung Institute.
Applying Early
Although we do not have a rolling admissions cycle, applying early is always a good idea. The earlier you apply, the earlier we can spot problems such as missing transcripts, test scores, etc. As the application deadline approaches we receive numerous email inquiries and letters. This results in you having more difficulty contacting us as well as checking your application status. Your patience during this time is appreciated. We receive several hundred applications each year with the bulk of them arriving in December.
Also, it’s a good idea to take the GRE and, if applicable, the TOEFL as early as possible. It may take ETS up to a month to get the scores to us.
Application essays
The Online Application has several sections, including two essays, the Personal History Statement and the Statement of Purpose. Please note that these essays are very important to the application process and should be taken seriously. They should also be two separate essays.
The Personal History Statement asks: Please describe how your personal background and experiences inform your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Specifically, your essay should explain how your past experiences and educational pathway have led you to pursue a Master’s of Engineering in Bioengineering. In this section you may also include information on how you have overcome barriers to access higher education, evidence of how you have come to understand the barriers faced by others, evidence of your academic service to advance equitable access to higher education for women, racial minorities, and individuals from other groups that have been historically underrepresented in higher education, evidence of your research focusing on underserved populations or related issues of inequality, or evidence of your leadership among such groups. Brevity is appreciated – no more than two pages (500-600 words is generally optimal).
The Statement of Purpose asks: Please describe your aptitude and motivation for graduate study in your area of specialization, including your preparation for this field of study, your academic plans or research interests in your chosen area of study, and your future career goals. Please be specific about why UC Berkeley would be a good intellectual fit for you, and be sure to explain how the M.Eng. program will help you to achieve your long-term goals. Brevity is appreciated – no more than two pages (500-600 words is generally optimal).
The Graduate Division provides additional information on writing your statement of purpose.
Regarding Your Application Package
It is always best to submit only information requested. Non-requested materials will not be included with your application for review. Please do not send the following:
- Hard-copy transcripts mailed to the department (all transcripts should be uploaded to the Graduate Division application site)
- Your Statement of Purpose (we will have received this online)
- Your Personal History Statement (we will have received this online)
- Financial documents of any kind
- Notebooks or diaries
- Overly long publications (if 15+ pages, please send the abstract only and put the document up on the web, if you are able).
- DVDs, CDs, or other information storage devices
Once You Apply
Keep in mind the following advice: please be patient. You will receive email updates on your application status as your materials are received.
Application review begins in early February. If your application is incomplete at that time, review may be delayed. It is your responsibility to have your materials submitted by the deadline. You can check your application status yourself at the application website.
More Information
Please see our Career Center’s web pages on applying to graduate school.