Frequently Asked Questions

ELIGIBILITY QUESTIONS
Who's eligible for EAP?
What is the minimum GPA requirement?
Do I need a foreign language?
Can I apply if I'm a transfer student?
Can I study at UC Berkeley as an exchange student?
Can I go to more than one country through EAP?
Can I apply to more than one program per participation period (e.g. Fall 2006)?
Can I participate in two programs back-to-back?
Can I be away from campus the semester before departure?
Can I bring dependents on an EAP program?
Can I go on EAP to the country of my citizenship?

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
When are applications due?
Where can I get an application?
Where do I send a completed application?
When should I start planning for EAP?
What is the Program Self-Assessment Worksheet?
Is there a deadline to submit the Program Self-Assessment Worksheet?
After I submit my Program Self-Assessment Worksheet, do I need to wait for clearance from the EAP office to apply?
My letters of recommendation/official transcripts are in a sealed envelope - should I open the envelope and make the required number of copies?
Does my letter of recommendation/official transcript need to accompany my application, or can they be submitted directly to the office?
Is there a Letter of Recommendation Form, or should my instructor write the letter on department letterhead?

TRAVEL & EAP EXTENSION QUESTIONS
Can I go early or do I have to travel with the group?
Can I stay in the country after the program ends?
Can I extend my participation once abroad?

ACADEMIC QUESTIONS
Will the courses I take abroad count toward graduation?
Will my units and grades transfer?
How many units do I take while abroad?
Do I have to go for a full year?
Do I have to study in my major field while abroad?
What happens to my status at UC Berkeley while I'm on EAP?
I want to spend my last semester abraod. Is that possible?
What happens if I want to quit early?

FINANCIAL QUESTIONS
How much does it cost to go on EAP?
Do I still pay out-of-state UC tuition if I'm an out-of-state student on EAP?
Will my financial aid apply?
What types of financial aid are available for EAP students?
Who are my finance contacts at the University-wide Office of EAP (UOEAP)?
Who do I pay registration fees to?
How will I receive the financial aid funds?
Who do I contact if I change my address?
Do I keep a bank account in the U.S. or start one abroad?
What if I extend from a semester to a year program while abroad?
When do I receive the financial aid disbursements?

ELIGIBILITY QUESTIONS

Who's eligible for EAP?
To participate in EAP you must be a fulltime UC Berkeley undergraduate or graduate student. Most programs require that you have at least junior standing (56 units) before departure, but as EAP expands, we now offer several short-term programs that allow participation from students with at least 30 units. Also, seniors are always welcome to apply as long as you are willing to take a full academic course load while abroad.

What is the minimum GPA requirement?
For many programs you must have a 3.0 by the end of the semester before departure. A GPA of 2.5 is now enough for some programs, such as many Language and Culture Programs. If you do not meet the minimum GPA required for a specific program, you should speak with the EAP adviser for that program to discuss your options.

Do I need a foreign language?
Many EAP countries have options that don't require prior knowledge of a foreign language. There are many programs where the language of instruction is English, even if the country itself is not English-speaking. Some programs require that you take courses in the language of the host country while pursuing other coursework in English. EAP also offers many Language and Culture Programs with minimal language prerequisites.

Can I apply if I'm a transfer student?
Absolutely! Although transfer students might have tighter schedules and more to consider when planning on going abroad, the EAP program encourages you to explore your options through us. We send many transfer students abroad every year.

Can I study at UC Berkeley as an international exchange student?
If you are a registered student at one of EAP's partner universities you may be eligible to attend UC Berkeley as a non-degree EAP student for a semester or year. Contact your University's International or Study Abroad Office and ask for help in applying to the Education Abroad Program. For more international exchange student questions, please visit our UOEAP Reciprocity page.

Can I go to more than one country through EAP?
Yes, students can participate in more than one EAP program. The College of Letters & Science allows students to study abroad for a maximum of 3 semesters, provided that you meet all major and college requirements without exceeding your unit cap. (Please consult with other colleges directly for their policy on maximum semesters abroad).

Can I apply to more than one program per participation period (e.g. Fall 2005)?
No, students may only apply to ONE program per participation period. In special cases, exceptions to this policy will be made in consultation with the EAP Regional Advisers for both programs. Consult the "Need to Know" document for a country if you have concerns about impacted programs. A dual application will only be considered if an "EAP Exception Contract" is on file with signatures from EAP Regional Advisers for each program before the time of application.

Can I participate in two programs back-to-back?
For some programs, it is not feasible to apply and complete all pre-departure requirements while abroad. Students interested in exploring this option must consult with the EAP adviser for both programs. Permission to participate in back-to-back EAP programs is not guaranteed and is granted on a case-by-case basis. Students are required to sign an "EAP Exception Contract" with signatures from EAP Regional Advisers for each program before application for the second program. Please note this rule also applies to summer participation before or after a semester or academic year.

Can I be away from campus the semester before departure?
As with back-to-back programs, it may not be feasible to apply for a program and complete all pre-departure requirements while away from the Berkeley area. Permission to be away from campus the semester before departure is granted on a case-by-case basis by the EAP Regional Adviser for the program. Students are required to sign an "EAP Exception Contract" with the signature of the EAP Regional adviser before applying for the program.

Can I bring my spouse and/or dependents on an EAP program?
Some programs allow students to be accompanied by spouses and/or dependents. Students must make special financial, housing, insurance, and transportation arrangements for the spouse or dependent(s) accompanying them. The EAP Adviser will provide interested students with a special packet of forms to complete and return to the Campus EAP Office at the time of application (forms are also available online). All provisions for the support of a student’s family while abroad are the student’s responsibility. In many situations it is not practical or advisable to have family members along, and some programs do not permit students to bring either a spouse or children. Contact the EAP Adviser to determine which programs currently cannot accommodate spouses and/or dependents.

Can I go on EAP to the country of my citizenship?
There is no restriction imposed by EAP on international students or permanent residents wishing to study in their country of origin, but the host country or program may have their own restrictions. Check with the EAP adviser for your country of interest.

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APPLICATION QUESTIONS

When are applications due?
Please see the Application Deadlines page.

Where can I get an application?
After careful research on EAP program options and completion of a Program Self-Assessment Worksheet, you can access the EAP application on-line. Unless specified otherwise, you do not need to obtain clearance from an EAP adviser to apply. More detailed coverage of the application process can be found in the Apply section.

Where do I send a completed application?
Applications sent by mail should be addressed as follows:

Berkeley Programs for Study Abroad
160 Stephens Hall #2302
Berkeley, CA 94720

You may also deliver your application to our office in person. We are located in Stephens Hall, just south of Sather Tower (the campanile). If we are not open, you may drop off your application in our drop box, located halfway down the stairs.

When should I start planning for EAP?
Begin planning for EAP as early as possible. Many programs have specific language and other academic prerequisites. For programs that require junior standing, you will need to declare your major and complete both semesters of the Reading and Composition requirement before you depart.

What is the Program Self-Assessment Worksheet?
The Program Self-Assessment Worksheet is designed to help you assess your eligibility for the program that interests you. The Program Profile section asks you to demonstrate basic knowledge of the program. The Program Eligibility Requirements section assists you in determining your eligibility.

We encourage you to complete a Self-Assessment Form for each program that interests you, but it is mandatory to submit one for the program you apply to. This will help you narrow down your options and determine which program best meets your needs.

Is there a deadline to submit the Program Self-Assessment Worksheet?
We strongly encourage you to submit the Program Self-Assessment Worksheet, along with a copy of your BearFacts transcript, as soon as you complete it. You must have a completed SAF with you or on file in our office before you can meet with a drop-in adviser.

After I submit my Program Self-Assessment Worksheet, do I need to wait for clearance from the EAP office to apply?
NO. With the exception of a few countries*, you can go ahead and access the on-line application for your program. All application instructions and applicable forms are available in the Apply section.

My letters of recommendation/official transcripts are in a sealed envelope. Should I open the envelope and make the required number of copies?
You do not need to make copies of letters of recommendation. Just include them in their sealed envelope with your application. Official transcripts can be opened and the appropriate number of copies should be made before submitting them to the office.

Does my letter of recommendation/official transcript need to accompany my application, or can they be submitted directly to the office?
Your letter of recommendation/official transcript can be submitted directly to the office. We will match up the documents with your application and make the required number of copies.

Is there a Letter of Recommendation Form, or should my instructor write the letter on department letterhead? (only applicable for those programs that require letters of recommendation)
Your recommender can write their letter in one of the following ways:

1. Use the writeable PDF Letter of Recommendation Form - If your instructor wishes to use the writeable PDF version, please provide them with the PDF Form Instructions.
2. Type the letter onto a printed Letter of Recommendation Form
3. Type the letter onto department letterhead (be sure to indicate the student's EAP Country and Program on the letter).

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TRAVEL & EAP EXTENSION QUESTIONS

Can I go early or do I have to travel with the group?
Usually students make their own transportation arrangements. Some students travel in the destination country or region before the start of the program. Please note, however, that you are responsible for yourself until the official start of the EAP program abroad. Also, students MUST be at the designated arrival location by the date and time indicated in their pre-departure packet materials

Can I stay in the country after the program ends?
Yes, if your visa allows it. Keep in mind that once the program has ended, you are responsible for yourself in every way. Some students take advantage of being abroad to stay an extra few weeks or months to travel. You can purchase up to three additional months of health insurance through EAP for coverage outside the U.S. during this period.

Can I extend my participation once abroad?
Yes, if the program allows an extension from summer to semester or semester to year. In order to facilitate this process while you are abroad, we highly recommend that you submit the Departmental Pre-Approval to Extend form prior to departure. Even if you think you will not extend, it is better to have this form completed on file so that an extension is possible, assuming that all criteria is met.

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ACADEMIC QUESTIONS

Will the courses I take abroad count toward graduation?
With careful planning and advising from your departmental/college advisor, you can make normal progress towards graduation. Although final credit for major/college requirements is granted after you return, we encourage students to discuss their study abroad plans with their departmental/college adviser before departure.

Will my units and grades transfer?
Yes, you will receive UC Berkeley credit for all classes taken while on EAP. In fact, there is no option of not having the units count. Although your units and grades automatically transfer, please note that it can take several months for them to appear on your Berkeley transcript.

How many units do I take while abroad?
You are required to take a full-time load while abroad, as if you were at UC Berkeley. Actual full-time loads vary by host university and EAP program.

Do I have to go for a full year?
No. We offer both short-term and full year programs. However, students who enroll in a full-year program and withdraw before the end of the term will not be able to register for classes at Berkeley for the following semester.

Do I have to study in my major field while abroad?
Some host institutions, such as those in the United Kingdom, require that you take most of your courses in your major field. However, many students choose courses outside their major while abroad to explore new areas, develop their language skills, fulfill breadth requirements, or take classes toward a second major or a minor.

What happens to my status at UC Berkeley while I'm on EAP?
You continue to be enrolled and registered at UC Berkeley while you are abroad. Before your departure, our office notifies the Registrar's office that you will be participating in EAP. Your EAP status will be reflected on your student records and transcript.

I want to spend my last semester abroad. Is that possible?
Many students finish their undergraduate career abroad. Students should consult with their college/major adviser to confirm that all college/major requirements will be completed by the end of their term abroad.

What happens if I want to quit early?
By withdrawing from EAP you are also withdrawing from Berkeley. Your college has the final authority to determine the conditions of readmission. You will be held responsible for any financial aid that has been advanced to you as well as payments due to EAP.

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FINANCIAL QUESTIONS

How much does it cost to go on EAP?
There is a specific budget for each program, which includes the same UC education and registration fees that you would normally pay for a similar period at UC Berkeley, a mandatory insurance fee, room, board, books, round-trip transportation, on-site orientation, intensive language program expenses (where applicable), and personal expenses. With a few exceptions, the budgets are roughly equivalent to or less than an off campus UC Berkeley budget for a similar amount of time. To see program costs for a specific country/program, check out the UOEAP Student Budgets .

Do I still pay out-of-state UC tuition and registration fees if I'm an out-of-state student on EAP?
Yes, out-of-state students still pay non-resident tuition and registration fees, in addition to specific program costs. Please refer to the Non-Resident Program Fees also linked from the EAP Student Budget Worksheet for your program.

Will my financial aid apply and cover all my costs?
As an EAP student, you are eligible for financial aid. The Financial Aid office simply adjusts your aid package according to the estimated budget for your program. EAP also awards need-based scholarships to assist in keeping the financial aid packages for students as reasonable as possible.

What types of financial aid are available for EAP students?
As an EAP student, you will receive all the same financial aid you usually receive--grants, scholarships, and loans--except work-study. EAP scholarship funds and loans are awarded to help replace the financial aid students usually receive through work-study.

Who are my finance contacts at the University-wide Office of EAP (UOEAP)?
Please refer to your EAP General Guide or the Student Financial Services page on the UOEAP website.

To whom do I pay registration fees?
Checks should be made payable to "UC Regents" and mailed to UOEAP. Payment due dates and amounts are outlined in the payment coupons in your EAP packet. If you are a financial aid student your fees will be deducted from your financial aid. Your registration fees will not appear on your UC Berkeley billing statement.

How will I receive the financial aid funds?
You must fill out the EAP EFT form and return it to UOEAP for direct deposits. You must fill out this form even if you are signed up for UC Berkeley EFT. This form will be available in your packet of pre-departure forms.

Who do I contact if I change my address?
Please visit the Berkeley EAP office and complete a Student Address/Information form.

Do I keep a bank account in the U.S. or start one abroad?
This varies by country, so you will want to read your EAP Student Guide to make the best decision for you. For example, in Germany you must have a bank account there to pay your rent. Most students maintain a bank account in the U.S., with the assistance of a family member whom is given Power of Attorney or added as an account signatory, and access it from overseas using ATMs. It will be necessary for a student to consult with his or her home bank regarding the possible use of an ATM card in the new host country, and how many digits the PIN for the ATM needs to be, as this varies by country. For more information on finances while on EAP, visit the UOEAP website http://eap.ucop.edu/eap/reference/GUIDE/finances.htm#money

What if I extend from a semester to a year program while abroad?
Your financial aid will be revised once the extension has been approved by UOEAP.

When do I receive the financial aid disbursements?
Please reference the Financial Aid Disbursement Schedule on the UOEAP website.

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