<p>Does Berkeley use the Common App? </p>
<p>How generous is the needbased aid for OOS students?</p>
<p>Does a subject test in science need to be taken when applying to the school of engineering?
Or can I just use the ACT in lieu of the SAT and SATIIs?</p>
<p>thanks.</p>
<p>Berkeley does not use Common App.</p>
<p>Need based aid is fairly generous for any students as long as you provide the right documents.</p>
<p>I did not take SAT but took the ACT and was accepted. However, I did take three SAT II’s since at least two SAT II’s were required for admission. I think that rule has changed for those who apply after 2010 or 2011 or so…</p>
<p>ok thanks. when can I access the application for UCB if Im a rising senior? </p>
<p>I couldnt find the info on their website…</p>
<p>I don’t think it’s up yet. I applied last year and It was a really short window of time called the “filing period” in which you had to fill out your app and send all scores/transcripts between Nov 1-30th. I kept trying to click on the site before then but it wouldn’t let me through; however, just start working on your personal statement. I truly believe that’s what got me into cal and it was so much easier for me to have it done (I used the same one I used for my commonapp essays) and just copy-paste it during filing period. Their prompts are pretty general and probably are available online. You get 1000 words to split however you want between two essays, each at least 250 words long. Here’s the admissions site: if you click “apply online” right now your only option is to apply for spring 2011 which you probably don’t want to do. But just bookmark it and look back in the fall.
[University</a> of California - Admissions](<a href=“http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/undergrad_adm/apply_to_uc.html]University”>Apply now | UC Admissions)</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>Here’s the official essay thingy to get you started. Taken from the UC Admissions site linked above.</p>
<p>The Personal Statement
In reading your application, we want to get to know you as well as we can. There’s a limit to what grades and test scores can tell us so we ask you to write a personal statement.</p>
<p>Your personal statement is your chance to tell us who you are and what’s important to you. Think of it as your opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions and scholarship officers reading your application. Be open, be honest, be real. What you tell us in your personal statement gives readers the context to better understand the rest of the information youve provided in your application.</p>
<p>A couple of tips: Read each prompt carefully and be sure to respond to all parts. Use specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make. Finally, relax. This is one of many pieces of information we consider in reviewing your application; an admission decision will not be based on your personal statement alone.</p>
<p>Instructions and Prompts</p>
<p>Respond to both prompts, using a maximum of 1,000 words total.
You may allocate the word count as you wish. If you choose to respond to one prompt at greater length, we suggest your shorter answer be no less than 250 words.
Stay within the word limit as closely as you can. A little over 1,012 words, for example is fine.
Prompt #1 (freshman applicants)
Describe the world you come from for example, your family, community or school and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations.</p>
<p>Prompt #1 (transfer applicants)
What is your intended major? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had in the field such as volunteer work, internships and employment, participation in student organizations and activities and what you have gained from your involvement.</p>
<p>Prompt #2 (all applicants)
Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud and how does it relate to the person you are?</p>
<p>Application becomes available October 1st. Filing period is November 1st thru November 30th. You should double check on the need aid for out of state students. It is my understanding that Berkeley does not offer need based aid to out of state students. You will be able to get federal loans though.</p>