Before you arrive on campus in California, complete the steps below to avoid common issues and delays for international students. If you have any questions, contact us and we’ll be happy to help!
Complete your pre-arrival checklist
Students will need to secure a Visitor Visa (B-2 Tourism) to travel to campus. Students must:
- Complete the online visa application
- Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160.
- Photo – Students will upload their photo while completing the online Form DS-160.
- Copy – Print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
- Schedule an interview
Interviews are required for visa applicants. Students should schedule an appointment for their visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where they live.
- Make sure to bring the following items to your interview:
- printed application confirmation page
- passport
- letter of acceptance
- any additional regionally listed items as outlined by your local embassy/consulate
- Notify us that you’ve received your visa
- Send a photo of your visa confirmation to UCBsummer@shorelight.com
- One of our Student Success Coordinators will reach out to assist you with next steps.
To ensure a smooth start to your program, plan to arrive on or before your official program session start date. Transportation from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to campus will be provided on July 21st between 10am-5pm. Details for how to locate your airport transfer service will be sent out as the program start date approaches and reviewed during our Before You Start webinar (see below).
Students who cannot secure flights with a local arrival time of 3pm or earlier on July 21st must plan to arrive the day before, and will be responsible for securing their own transportation and accommodations. Accommodations on campus are not available until July 21st.
Once you book your flights, you must complete the arrival form. This is also a chance for you to share with us any accessibility needs or dietary restrictions that you may have, as well as emergency contact information. Please submit your arrival form at least two weeks before your arrival.
Easy Flight Bookings and Travel Discounts Info
StudentUniverse, in collaboration with Shorelight, provides exclusive student-only discounts on flights around the world. StudentUniverse has exclusive deals with airlines to get the lowest-possible airfare for international students. If your travel plans change, don’t worry – all purchases have 24-hour risk-free cancellation.
Making your payment in full at least two weeks before you arrive will help avoid delays and ensure your spot in the program.
Release & Waiver of Responsibility Form
- Please read, sign, and date the form and return it to UCBSummer@shorelight.com
Students must have a 6.5 IELTS or equivalent. Proof of English level must be submitted at least two weeks before the program start date. To submit your test results, or arrange a free test, contact us at UCBsummer@shorelight.com.
If you haven’t already, please submit proof of your current undergraduate enrollment status. This can be in the form of a transcript, a letter from the university, or other official document. Proof of undergraduate enrollment must be submitted at least two weeks before the program start date in order to secure your spot on campus.
Once we have received your proof of enrollment and English test results, you will receive an acceptance letter.
Students will be required to attend a pre-arrival virtual orientation where we will cover:
- what to pack and prepare before travel
- tips for a smooth arrival and transfer from SFO airport to campus
- program requirements, session schedule, and program outcomes
- introduction to Berkeley and California’s Bay Area
- meeting the UCB Summer Institute team and your fellow classmates
In order to have the best experience possible, please make sure to bring the following items:
- paperwork – passport/visa, program acceptance letter
- money – a credit card that can be used internationally, as well as cash in US dollars (around $200 USD is recommended)
- tech equipment – laptop/charger, cell phone/charger, headphones
- casual, comfortable clothing for a variety of activities – shorts, pants, t-shirts, sweater/hoodie, light jacket, raincoat, athletic shoes, sandals, swimwear, sunglasses, hat, umbrella
- one business casual outfit for the capstone presentation and completion ceremony
- personal care items and medications
- reusable water bottle
Upon arrival, we will provide you with:
- a SIM card with a US phone number for your smartphone
- bedding linen, pillows, towels, laundry bag
- soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, laundry detergent, sunblock, hand sanitizer, insect repellent
There are also convenience stores/pharmacies close to campus to purchase other essentials.