UC Berkeley Unlocked 2026

Join us for UC Berkeley Unlocked 2026!

UC Berkeley Unlocked is a series of comprehensive application workshops and information sessions that are intended to introduce prospective students to the UC application and admissions process, as well as the UC Berkeley undergraduate experience. During the program, students will learn how to present a strong application for UC admission, meet one-on-one with an Admissions Officer, and learn about the many resources and activities offered at the #1 public university. Participants of UC Berkeley Unlocked receive support that continues beyond the program. Our admissions staff continues to support students through the application cycle to prepare their applications.

Register for UC Berkeley Unlocked

Goal of the program

UC Berkeley Unlocked is built to serve first-generation, low-income, and/or underrepresented students. We offer strategies for crafting a competitive UC Application, while introducing resources designed to help students succeed on the UC Berkeley campus.

2026 Program

This year, UC Berkeley Unlocked will take place virtually from July 27 to July 31, 2026.

• The program is open to both rising high school seniors and current transfer students
• Webinars every day breaking down the UC Application
• Opportunity to connect with staff from Undergraduate Admissions

Eligibility for the High School Program

Applicants must:

• Attend a high school in California
• Have an unweighted GPA of at least 3.5
• Be a senior in high school in Fall 2026

Eligibility for the Community College Session

Applicants must:

• Attend a California Community College
• Have an unweighted GPA of at least 3.3
• Have completed at least 30 semester transferable units by the end of spring prior to session

2026 Timeline

Webinars

July 27, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm – 5:50 pm
Topic: General Admissions Presentation – Open to all
Description: Learn more about everything UC Berkeley has to offer! In addition to insight about the University, we will also be joined by our campus partners to highlight different resources for prospective students.

July 27, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Topic: UC Berkeley Virtual Campus Tour – Open to all (Session 1 of 2)
Description: Experience our campus from anywhere in the world through an engaging virtual campus tour led by two of our knowledgeable student tour guides. During this virtual tour, you’ll learn about the campus from the student perspective, including our history, academics, housing, student life, traditions, student resources, and more. The presentation is about 45 minutes, leaving time at the end to answer your questions. This session is offered on two days, July 27 & 28, to best fit your schedule.

July 28, 2026
Time: 4:00 pm – 4:50 pm (For Transfer Students Only)
Topic: UC Berkeley College Breakdown – Transfer Students
Description: This session will provide Transfer students with an in-depth understanding of the different colleges and schools UC Berkeley offers. Students will gain a better understanding of different major areas, transfer requirements, and insight into how admissions uses majors.

July 28, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm – 5:50 pm (For First Year Students Only)
Topic: UC the Vision: Application Workshop – First Year Students
Description: This session will provide First Year students with a comprehensive introduction to the University of California (UC) application. Participants will gain insight into how to select UC campuses, understand the structure and expectations of the application, and learn what admissions readers look for in the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs). By the end of the session, students will feel more prepared and confident in completing and submitting their UC application.

July 28, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm – 5:50 pm (For Transfer Students Only)
Topic: UC the Vision: Application Workshop – Transfer Students
Description: This session will provide transfer students with a comprehensive introduction to the University of California (UC) application. Participants will gain insight into how to select UC campuses, understand the structure and expectations of the application, and learn what admissions readers look for in the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs). By the end of the session, students will feel more prepared and confident in completing and submitting their UC application.

July 28, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Topic: UC Berkeley Virtual Campus Tour – Open to all (Session 2 of 2)
Description: Experience our campus from anywhere in the world through an engaging virtual campus tour led by two of our knowledgeable student tour guides. During this virtual tour, you’ll learn about the campus from the student perspective, including our history, academics, housing, student life, traditions, student resources, and more. The presentation is about 45 minutes, leaving time at the end to answer your questions. This session is offered on two days, July 27 & 28, to best fit your schedule.

July 29, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm – 5:50 pm (For Transfer Students Only)
Topic: Navigating Assist – Transfer Students
Description: This transfer-only presentation aims to support students in understanding how to navigate Assist.org by breaking down articulation agreements to the different resources the site offers. We’ll walk through how to best utilize the website and equip students with the tools needed to be transfer eligible.

July 29, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm – 5:50 pm (For First years only)
Topic: Leveraging your Extracurriculars – First Year Students
Description: This presentation will explore how extracurricular activities can strengthen your UC application. Participants will learn how to identify the skills they have developed through clubs, sports, volunteer work, leadership roles, and other activities, and how to effectively showcase those experiences on the application. The session will also provide strategies for choosing meaningful extracurricular opportunities, maximizing involvement, and demonstrating leadership, teamwork, and commitment. By the end of the session, you will have the knowledge to help you turn your extracurricular experiences into valuable assets.

July 30, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm – 5:50 pm
Topic: PIQ Workshop – Open to all
Description: This webinar will guide students through the process of writing strong and authentic Personal Insight Questions (PIQs). Participants will learn what admissions reviewers look for, how to choose the most effective prompts, and strategies for showcasing their experiences, achievements, values, and personal growth. The session will cover brainstorming techniques, storytelling tips, and common mistakes to avoid, helping students craft compelling responses that reflect who they are beyond grades and test scores. Whether you’re just getting started or revising your drafts, this workshop will provide practical tools to strengthen your PIQs and make your application stand out.

July 31, 2025
Time: 5:00 pm – 5:50 pm
Topic: Why Going to College Matters! & Closing Remarks – Open to all
Description: This presentation will explore the importance of higher education and how college can impact your future. Participants will learn about the academic, personal, and career benefits of attending college, including opportunities for skill development, networking, and career preparation. The session will also discuss how college can help students discover their interests, achieve their goals, and make informed decisions about their educational journey. Whether you’re considering college for the first time or planning your next steps, this presentation will provide valuable insights to help you understand the opportunities that higher education brings.

Ready to join us?

Complete your registration today!

Inquiries 

If you have any questions about the program, please contact Jayda Richardson at: jaydarichardson@berkeley.edu