F-1 and J-1 Students

The information on this page is intended for UC Berkeley campus staff working with international degree-seeking students and Education Abroad Program (EAP) reciprocity students.

ALERT: Berkeley International Office is aware of a continuing trend of scams targeting international students. Find out more about common scams and support resources on our Scams and Safety page.

Academic Advisor Guide to BIO eForms

Certain BIO Student Request forms requiring academic advisor approval have transitioned from PDF forms to online eForms! This guide outlines the new process for academic advisors completing BIO eForms.

Upcoming Workshops

No current upcoming workshops
We will post information here about upcoming workshops. Stay tuned for more details!

Request a workshop

Berkeley International Office staff are available to facilitate on-campus workshops for academic departments and student groups. To request a workshop, or to inquire about collaborating on an event, please fill out this form. Contact internationaloffice@berkeley.edu with any questions.

International Student Updates Listserv

Join the BIO International Student Updates listserv in order to receive updates relevant to our international student community, as well as reminders and resources related to student support.

BIO Faculty/Staff Office Hours

Join BIO's Assistant Director for Student Services for a once-a-month Office Hours. This is an open meeting for Faculty/Staff to chat with BIO to answer case specific or general questions related to F/J international Students. Join office hours via this link.

Upcoming office hours:

  • September 10, 2025: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
  • October 1, 2025: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
  • November 5, 2025: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
  • December 3, 2025: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

**This meeting is for UC Berkeley Faculty/Staff who work with international students, NOT for students.**

Top 10 Tips for Maintaining F/J Student Status

Hiring UC Berkeley Employees on F-1 OPT/STEM OPT

5 Tips for Successfully Advising International Students

Compiled by Berkeley International Office

  1. Build relationships by expressing curiosity 
    and interest about educational and cultural differences.
  2. Foster sense of belonging by promoting 
    social engagement, and encouraging 
    leadership development.
  3. Connect students to learning opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom through Office of Undergraduate Research, DeCal, Berkeley Connect, and Public Service.
  4. Recognize and support multiple dimensions 
    of a student’s identity (nationality, gender, sexual orientation, etc.) especially during periods of transition.
  5. Normalize students' experiences and encourage them to seek support services through Berkeley International Office, CPS, TRSP, SLC, DSP.