How to Apply

For all applicants, the deadline to apply for Fall 2010 admission is December 1, 2009. Please be sure to complete the three components (online application, Applicant Summary Sheet and supplement materials package) by this deadline.

Time Table

Deadline	Item
December 1st, 2009, 11:59pm PST	Graduate Application for Admission and Fellowships, 2010-2011
December 1st, 2009, 11:59pm PST	Applicant Summary Sheet
December 1st, 2009, 11:59pm PST	postmark deadline for all supplemental application materials

Basic Instructions

1. Complete the online Graduate Application for Admissions and Fellowships, 2010-2011. This application will be available Monday, September 8, 2009. Once you begin your online application be sure to jot down your "Doc ID" because it is required to access your Applicant Summary Sheet. Once you have an online application account, you can work on your online application over time to make additions and changes at any time until it is complete. Be sure to click on submit button by the deadline.

2. Submit the Applicant Summary Sheet. You will need your "Doc ID" from your online application to access this form. Once you click the submit button a brief summary record will be presented. It is important to print a copy of this record to send with your supplemental material. The Applicant Summary Sheet will be available on Monday, September 15, 2009.

3. Mail in all of your supplemental material along with the printed record of your Applicant Summary Sheet in a single large envelope addressed to:

Office of Admissions
Graduate School of Journalism, UC Berkeley
121 North Gate Hall #5860
Berkeley, CA 94720-5860

Graduate Application for Admission and Fellowships, 2010-2011

The Graduate Application for Admission and Fellowshps is an online form that all Berkeley graduate student applicants must complete. Starting September 8, applicants will be able to establish an application account that gives access to this form. Unlimited additions and changes can be made on this form until the submit button is clicked. Please be mindful that this application is designed to accomodate graduate applicants with a wide array of degree goals and you will need to adapt accordingly (e.g. instead of listing published academic and scientific research you can list your published articles). The Graduate Application for Admission and Fellowshps includes:

Form A: Personal Data and Degree Goal

Form B: Academic and Professional Achievements

Form C: Fellowship Application

Please note that Form C will be considered along with your FAFSA; you need to be sure to complete both to be eligible for financial aid.

Form D: Foreign Language and Areas Studies Fellowship Application

This is a highly competitive fellowship that requires intensive language and area studies as part of your graduate degree. Your academic and career goals need to reflect your language and area specializations.

Form E: International Applicant Fellowship Application

Form F: Personal Statements

F-1: Statement of Purpose (750 word limit; explain why you are applying)

F-2: Personal History Statement (750 word limit; describe your character and commitment to journalism)

Form G: Three Letters of Recommendation

You may send this form to your recommenders and/or they can send their letters separately. All recommendation letters need to be recieved by December 1. Each recommender must sign across the envelope seal.

Form H: Transcript Request

This form is for your convenience. Our admissions committee prefers that your transcripts be included in your supplemental materials package.

Supplemental Materials

The following items must be mailed by December 1 to the Graduate School of Journalism in a single large envelope:

School of Journalism Applicant Summary Sheet printed from the online form.
One-page, single-sided resume.
Two sealed copies of the official transcripts from each undergraduate institution attended. Transcripts are not needed for any coursework that was not used for the completion of your undergraduate degree, but you may send transcripts that show coursework you would like considered by the admissions committee.

Transcripts must be official (ie bear the official stamp of the registrar) and be sealed in envelopes bearing the registrar's imprint. We require two sets of all transcripts. Transcripts must show the completion of a bachelor's degree and the equivalent with at least a "B" average after the first two years of study as an undergraduate.
Three samples of journalistic work. We encourage recently published professional work and discourage academic assignments, writing based on first person experiences, any writing that is focused on advocacy or marketing, writing samples all of the same topic, and clichèd topics. The samples should demonstrate depth of research, and initiative to go out of the way to dig deeper on a story. Unbiased and full spectrum reporting is also very important. Please note:

· Please do not send more than three samples or journalistic work.

· Each sample should be five pages (approximately 1500 words) or fewer; excerpts of longer pieces are acceptable.

· Two of the three samples must be writing samples. The third sample may be an audio or video submission (DVD format), an online site, or a photo essay/portfolio. Submission should represent the applicant's journalistic sensibility.

· Audio CDs should include a script.

· Photographic samples should include a maximum of 6-10 images and maximum size of 8" x 11". Having the images on a CD is preferred.

· Applicants who are interested in the Broadcast or Documentary sequence may choose to submit a documentary work sample (NTSC-format), but this is not a prerequisite for admission. A video sample is also acceptable so long as it is written, produced, and directed by the applicant.

· Work samples cannot be returned.

5. Three letters of recommendation. We prefer recommendations from professional journalists who know the applicant's work and can comment on the applicant's work ethic, writing proficiency, and commitment to journalism.

· Recommenders may use form G from the Graduate Division website or their own letterhead; each letter must be sealed in an envelope with the recommender's signature across the back seal.

· Foreign Language and Area Students fellowships: We encourage applicants to obtain letters of recommendation that include support for obtaining this fellowship. (For example, foreign language proficiency and expertise in an international topic area or geographic region.)

Please mail all supplemental materials to:
Office of Admissions
Graduate School of Journalism, UC Berkeley
121 North Gate Hall #5860
Berkeley, CA 94720-5860

Note: Supplemental materials that are mailed separately can be considered so long as they are postmarked by December 1, but we discourage this because of the risk that materials may get misdirected.

International Applicants

In addition to the criteria set by the Graduate School of Journalism, the University of California Berkeley has a second set of requirements for international applicants. Please see http://www.grad.berkeley.edu/international/index.shtml

We encourage international applicants to apply to the Graduate School of Journalism. Admission is competitive; candidates who have demonstrated professional journalism experience and a strong command of English are favored.

Regrettably, financial support for international students is limited. International students are not eligible for federal student loans but will be considered for need-based departmental grants. We recommend applying for scholarships and grants from outside organizations, or researching loan programs specifically designed for international students. The Graduate School of Journalism does not employ teaching assistants and opportunities for department employment are limited. Students holding student visas (F-1) should not expect to be employed in nonacademic positions during the first two semesters.

Should you need assistance in visa matters or other issues surrounding your status as an international applicant, please contact Berkeley's International Office at telephone number 510-642-2818 or email internationaloffice@berkeley.edu.

The international application and requirements are similar to that of the domestic counterparts. Please note these differences:

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required. Test scores will be sent directly to our office by the Educational Testing Service if you use institution code 4833 and department code 18.
Applicant fees are higher for international students. Please be sure to make your payment by the December 1 deadline.
International students are expected to show proof of ability to support themselves (and family, if applicable) for two years as a student. Please check the latest student budget figures to see what financial means are required.
International students must submit official transcripts or academic records for all university-level studies they have completed abroad and at U.S. institutions. Graduate Division will assess transcripts to determine if they are equivalent to a Bachelor's degree. Academic records should be issued in their original languages accompanied by English translations (usually prepared by your university or an official translator). If you must obtain a translation while in the United States, versions prepared by members of the American Translators Association are acceptable.

International Visiting Scholars' Program

The International Visiting Scholars' Program at UC Berkeley's Graduate School of Journalism provides a one-year, non-degree opportunity for experienced reporters and editors seeking advanced professional training and academic study.

Re-Applicants

Re-applicants must submit a new application and fee by the December 1 deadline. In addition, they must resubmit all material, except:

Three work samples (you may send us new samples if you wish)
The three letters of recommendation (you may submit new ones if you wish)
Official, sealed transcripts (unless you have taken additional courses since your last application that you would like to have considered)

Overview

How To Apply

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Financial Aid

Meet Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Applicant Background:

Do I need a degree in a specific major to be considered for admission? Are there any prerequisite courses that I need to have taken?

Applicants do not need degrees in any specific major to be admitted into our program. A bachelors degree is required, however. No specific coursework is required.

What counts as journalism experience?

Journalism experience is work (paid or unpaid) that has been completed in any media-related field (e.g. newspaper, TV or radio, photojournalism, online publications, freelance writing, etc) with a focus on production for a public audience.

If I don’t have any journalism experience, do I have a chance of being admitted?

A lack of journalism experience does not make an applicant ineligible to apply, but it will be challenging for him or her to compete in the highly selective admissions process. Many of our students had some experience with journalism prior to starting the program, either as interns in media outlets or working professionals.

We recommend that individuals with little or no experience in the journalism field enroll in a news-writing course through a continuing education program to gain experience in writing for a public audience. It is also advisable to secure an internship at a newspaper or in your preferred medium. One of the best ways to learn writing techniques is to ask a journalist to mentor you.

Application and Deadline Information

When is the application due?

The deadline for all components of the application is December 1 at midnight. Be sure the online portion of the application is submited by 11:59 p.m. All supplemental materials must be postmarked by December 1. Late applications will not be considered.

How can I apply for an application fee waiver?

Download the application fee waiver.

US citizens or permanent residents who can demonstrate financial need are eligible for a waiver of the application fee. Participants in the programs listed on the waiver application form must submit the form and provide evidence of their participation to be granted a waiver. Mail completed form the required supporting materials directly to:

Waiver Office, Graduate Admissions
309 Sproul Hall #5900
University of California at Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
94720-5900

More information is available directly from the Graduate Admissions office of the Graduate Division at 510-642-7405, email: gradadm@berkeley.edu

What GPA is required in order to be considered for admission?

The minimum graduate admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution with a satisfactory scholastic average, usually a minimum grade point average of 3.0 (B) for all coursework completed after the first two years of study.

We do not accept or decline admission based solely on GPA; instead, we review the applicant’s complete profile, including work samples, letters of recommendation, statements, among other items.

I'm an international applicant. Am I required to take the TOEFL? Do I have to take the TSE?

The TOEFL is required of all international applicants unless their country of citizenship has English as its only official language (eg India has several official languages, so the TOEFL is required for all Indian applicants). An exception may be made if an applicant has studied at an American university for at least 12 months. A score of 68 is the minimum requirement for the Internet-based test. Visit the Graduate Division's web site for international applicants for more details.

The TSE is not required.

When taking the TOEFL use institution code 4833 and department code 18. If you have already taken the TOEFL, please make sure that the Educational Testing Service (ETS) sends your scores to both UC Berkeley (code: 4833) and Journalism (code: 18). Applicants must take the TOEFL no later than December 1. TOEFL scores remain valid for two years.

I took the GRE, should I submit my scores even though they are no longer required?

No. The Admissions Committee will no longer consider GRE scores.

What are acceptable work samples?

We expect journalists to be sensitive to language and to organize their thoughts clearly and coherently. We ask for the three works samples (preferably published) to demonstrate those qualities. Please limit each sample to five pages or fewer; excerpts from longer pieces are acceptable. Two of the three items must be writing samples, but the third sample may be an audio or video tape, a website, or a photo essay/portfolio.

Applicants who are interested in the broadcast or documentary sequence may choose to submit a documentary work sample in DVD format, but this is not a requirement for admission. A video sample may be submitted only if the student produced and directed the piece.

Audio tapes must be accompanied by a script.

Photographic samples should include 6-10 images, 8” x 11” maximum size. A CD is also acceptable for photographic samples.

Applicants may send print samples in another language, but an English translation mustbe included.

Academic writing samples and research papers are not encouraged.

Note: work samples will not be returned.

What transcripts are required?

Two official transcripts are required for all academic work that was applied to your undergraduate degree. This includes community-college classes and study abroad programs if the units counted towards completion of your undergraduate degree. While we do not require transcripts from other graduate programs or from classes taken after a student has a bachelor’s degree through continuing education programs, for example, you may include one copy if you feel that the courses enhance your application.

Do I need to submit my study abroad transcripts?

If the name of the course, the number of units, and the grade are listed on your regular transcript, you do not need to submit separate study abroad transcripts from your host university.

Is it okay if letters and transcripts arrive after the deadline?

We ask that applicants submit all supplemental material in a single, large envelope. In any case, all supplemental material must be received or postmarked by December 1. Faxed or e-mailed letters of recommendation, are NOT accepted.

Do I have to use Form G (“Letter of Recommendation”)? What about the waiver?

Letters of recommendation can arrive on Form G or on letterhead from your recommender, or a combination of the two.

If the letters arrive without Form G, your right of access to the letter will be waived. Similarly, if a letter arrives without the form but the applicant sends the form (G) in the packet, the right of access will still be waived. In order for the right of access to not be waived, the letter of recommendation must be attached to the form.

On Form A1 of online application, the system asks what program are you applying for, giving the option of either "Journalism (M.Jour.)" or "Journalism (CWO)" ~ what should I select?

You should select "Journalism (M.Jour.)".

On Form B (sides 1 and 2) of the Application for Graduate Admission and Fellowships, there are questions that begin with “If your proposed department requires this….” Does the Journalism School require responses to these sections (i.e. faculty contact and GPA)?

The Journalism School does not require that you complete the section requesting that you note faculty you have contacted. We do require that you compute your GPA using the GPA worksheet included on the Applicant Summary Sheet.

On Form C of the application, there is a listing of endowed fellowships. Are Journalism School students eligible for any of these fellowships?

We regret that Journalism School students are ineligible for all of the endowed fellowships.

Financial Aid

How do I apply for financial aid ?

U.S. Citizens/Permanent Residents: If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you must complete Form C, Pages 1 and 2 of the Graduate Application for Admission and Fellowships, and submit a FAFSA form. Please visit our Financial Aid section for more information. FAFSA accepts priority filing in March.

International students: Financial aid for international students is very limited. International students are not eligible for federal financial aid. The University requires that international students who are admitted document their ability to support themselves financially throughout the period of study.

All students are encouraged to start their financial planning early. Investigate government and private resources and consult Web sites devoted to assisting students with funding graduate-level study.

Students may also apply for Graduate Student Instructor or Graduate Student Researcher positions at the J-School or on-campus.

The J-School Experience

Can I apply to be a part-time student? Does the Journalism School offer any correspondence/ online courses?

The program is a two-year, full-time master’s program and we admit students each fall semester. The Journalism School does not offer a part-time program, any correspondence, or online courses.

Does the Journalism School offer summer classes?

No. The Journalism School does not offer graduate-level courses during the summer. Other departments may offer classes, however, through the university-wide Summer Session Program.

Does the Journalism School accept transfer credit from other institutions?

No.

Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism