SoFi Blog

Tips and news—
for your financial moves.

University of Cincinnati Tuition and Fees


University of Cincinnati Tuition and Fees

University of Cincinnati Tuition

On this page:

    By Kelly Boyer Sagert

    (Last Updated – 06/2025)

    Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, the University of Cincinnati (UC) is a public research university known for its cooperative education program and diverse academic offerings across more than 300 majors. Founded in 1819, UC operates on a semester calendar and provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in fields such as engineering, business, health sciences, and the arts.

    In this guide, we’ll detail the university’s admission process, the UC acceptance rate, tuition, financial aid, popular majors, and more.

    Total Cost of Attendance

    In 2024-25, the University of Cincinnati tuition for Ohio residents was $13,976, and $29,310 for out-of-state students.

    Costs for 2024-25


    Student Type

    In-State

    Out-of-State

    Tuition & Fees

    $13,976

    $29,310

    Books & Supplies

    $1,300

    $1,300

    Food & Housing

    $13,564

    $13,564

    Other Expenses

    $6,924

    $6,924

    Total Cost of Attendance

    $35,764

    $51,098

    Financial Aid

    In 2022-23, 87% of students used financial aid to pay for University of Cincinnati tuition. This may come as scholarships, loans, grants, or a combination of these.

    Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

    The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

    •  Scholarships: Scholarships can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

    •  Grants: Grants are generally based on financial need. These can come from federal, state, private, and nonprofit organizations.

    •  Work-study: Federal Work-Study provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

    •  Federal student loans: Federal student loans are money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. They come with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

    Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state and federal and school deadlines may differ.

    You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

    •  U.S. Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

    •  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

    Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

    Private Student Loans

    Of the students who used student loans to help with the University of Cincinnati cost, 49% took out federal loans and 13% took out private student loans in the 2022-23 school year. The amount of private student loans averaged $17,916.

    Private student loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations, so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

    What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

    Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, as it generally may have better rates and terms.

    If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school throughout the year, private loans can potentially help you make your payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

    Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

    Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

    The University of Cincinnati cost for four years, including tuition and fees, room and board, books, and other expenses, would be $143,056 for in-state students (based on 2024-25 numbers). This is higher than the average four-year cost of attendance at public universities in the U.S., which is $115,360.

    The University of Cincinnati costs for residents of other states for four years would be $204,392, which is slightly higher than the national average of $186,920.

    Here’s some Ohio Student Loan & Scholarships information.

    Repay student loans your way.

    Find the monthly
    payment & rate that fits your budget.

    Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

    Costs for 2024-25

    Student Type

    In-State

    Out-of-State

    Tuition & Fees

    $13,976

    $29,310

    Books & Supplies

    $1,300

    $1,300

    Total

    $15,276

    $30,610

    The University of Cincinnati costs for tuition and fees plus books and supplies is $15,276 for in-state students and $30,610 for out-of-state students.

    Graduate Tuition and Fees

    Costs for 2024-25

    Student Type

    In-State

    Out-of-State

    Tuition

    $13,224

    $24,996

    Fees

    $1,678

    $1,678

    Total Tuition & Fees

    $14,902

    $26,674

    The cost for University of Cincinnati tuition and fees for graduate students from Ohio was $14,902 in 2024-25. For students from other states, the cost was $26,674. In comparison, the average cost of a master’s degree at U.S. public universities is $37,610.

    There are many options for graduate loans that can help with these costs.

    Cost per Credit Hour

    Attending the University of Cincinnati (UC Uptown) part-time cost $582 per credit hour in 2024-25 for Ohio residents.

    Campus Housing Expenses

    On-campus room and board was $13,564 in 2024-25; off-campus housing was $17,526. Other living expenses were $6,924 for on-campus students and $8,430 for off-campus students.

    First-year students at UC are required to live on campus (unless they are married or live with their parents within 50 miles of campus). The University of Cincinnati offers residence halls and apartment-style housing on campus. There are also Living-Learning Communities and themed floors for students whose interests are similar.

    For off-campus living, there are many apartments and rentals to live off-campus within walking distance. You can explore the options for off campus housing .

    University of Cincinnati Acceptance Rate

    Fall 2023

    Number of Applications

    Number Accepted

    Percentage Accepted

    33,165

    29,185

    88%

    The University of Cincinnati acceptance rate is 88%. In 2023, 29,185 students were accepted, making the University of Cincinnati acceptance rate high.

    Admission Requirements

    To be accepted at UC, there are certain requirements students must provide with their application. Other things, such as test scores, are recommended.

    Required:

    •  High school transcript

    •  GPA

    •  Personal statement or essay

    Recommended:

    •  SAT or ACT scores

    •  Work experience

    •  Letters of recommendation

    The deadline to submit an application for fall enrollment is March 1.

    SAT and ACT Scores

    While test scores are optional at the University of Cincinnati, here are the standardized test scores at the 25th and 75th percentile at UC.

    Subject

    25th Percentile

    75th Percentile

    SAT Evidence-Based
    Reading/Writing

    580

    670

    SAT Math

    570

    690

    ACT Composite

    24

    29

    ACT English

    22

    30

    ACT Math

    23

    29

    Graduation Rate

    Here are the graduation rates at the University of Cincinnati for those who began in fall 2017.

    •  4 years: 39%

    •  6 years: 71%

    Post-Graduation Median Earnings

    After completing an undergraduate degree at UC, you can expect to earn on average $54,810 per year, which is lower than the national average of $68,680 for graduates of four-year programs.

    Bottom Line

    If you’re looking for a university that gets you out of the classroom and into real-life learning experiences, the University of Cincinnati delivers. UC’s affordable tuition and high acceptance rate provide you with a good chance to get in without busting your budget.

    If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


    Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

    View your rate

    SoFi Private Student Loans
    Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
    Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

    SoFi Loan Products
    SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


    Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


    Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.



    Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

    External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.


    SOISL-Q225-069

    Read more

    University of Chicago Tuition and Fees


    University of Chicago Tuition and Fees

    University of Chicago Tuition and Fees

    On this page:

      By Kelly Boyer Sagert

      (Last Updated – 06/2025)

      The University of Chicago (UChicago) is a private research university that’s considered one of the best in the country. Ranked #11 in national universities (in a tie with Cornell University) by U.S. News & World Report, the university is affiliated with 101 Nobel Prize winners and 27 Pulitzer Prize winners. It has highly regarded schools in law, medicine, and public policy, among others.

      In this guide, we’ll detail the university’s admission process, the UChicago acceptance rate, tuition, financial aid, popular majors, and more.

      Total Cost of Attendance

      University of Chicago is a private school, so the cost of attendance will be the same for both in-state and out-of-state students.

      In 2024-25, costs at the University of Chicago were:

      Tuition & Fees

      $70,662

      Books & Supplies

      $1,800

      Food & Housing

      $20,109

      Other Expenses

      $2,400

      Total Cost of Attendance

      $94,971

      Financial Aid

      The admissions process at UChicago is “need-blind,” which means the school admits students without consideration of financial resources through a student-first admissions process. Plus, those who apply for financial aid do not need to pay an application fee. These policies can help aspiring students from lower- to middle-income families who otherwise wouldn’t have the financial resources to attend.

      In 2022-23, 53% of students received some kind of financial aid, including student loans. More specifically:

      •  Grant or scholarship aid: 46% received this kind of aid with the average award being $58,877.

      •  Federal grants: 17% received this kind of aid with an average award of $9,481.

      •  Pell grants: 17% received this kind of aid with the average award being $5,600.

      •  Other federal grants: 17% received this kind of aid with an average award of $3,990.

      •  State/local: 3% received this kind of aid and the average award was $7,200.

      •  Institutional: 45% received this kind of aid with the average award being $55,101.

      •  Student loan aid: 7% received this kind of aid with an average award of $13,890.

      •  Federal student loans: 6% received this kind of aid and the average award was $5,213.

      •  Other student loans: 1% received this kind of aid with the average award being $43,247.

      Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

      The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

      •  Scholarships: Scholarships can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

      •  Grants: Grants are generally based on financial need. These can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

      •  Work-study: Federal Work-Study provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

      •  Federal student loans: Federal student loans are money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. They come with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

      Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state, federal, and school deadlines may differ.

      You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

      •  U.S. Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

      •  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

      Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

      Private Student Loans

      In 2022-23, 1% of UChicago students received private student loan funding with an average award of $43,247.

      Private student loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations, so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

      What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

      Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, since it generally has better rates and terms.

      If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

      Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

      Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

      Over four years, a degree at UChicago will cost (based on 2024-25 numbers) approximately $379,884. This is higher than the average four-year cost of attendance at private universities in the U.S., which is $241,680.

      Here’s some Illinois Student Loan & Scholarship Information.

      Repay student loans your way.

      Find the monthly
      payment & rate that fits your budget.

      Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

      UChicago undergraduate tuition and fees for 2024-25 were $70,662, with books and supplies being $1,800.

      Total costs were as follows:

      Expenses

      Tuition & Fees

      $70,662

      Books & Supplies

      $1,800

      Total

      $72,462

      Graduate Tuition and Fees

      Graduation tuition at the university in 2024-25 was $67,200, with fees of $1,452, for a total of $68,652 per year. This is significantly higher than the average cost of graduate school in the United States, which is $21,730 per year.

      Graduate loans can help with this cost.

      Campus Housing Expenses

      All entering first-year students are required to live in on-campus housing for their first two academic years. Transfer students are required to live in on-campus housing for their first academic year at the school.

      In 2024-25, room and board at the University of Chicago was $20,109, a 4.6% increase from the previous year.

      University of Chicago Acceptance Rate

      In fall 2023, 38,631 people applied to the university. The UChicago acceptance rate was 5%, making the school challenging to get into.

      Admission Requirements

      As part of the application process, students need to submit:

      •   Application for admission and supplemental essays

      •   Secondary school report and transcript

      •   Two teacher evaluations

      •   Mid-year report

      •   SAT/ACT scores (optional)

      •   Video profile (optional but recommended)

      •   Supplemental materials (optional)

      Application Deadlines

      •   Early Action/Early Decision I: November 1

      •   Early Decision II/Regular Decision: January 6

      •   Admission Decision Release Date: Mid-December (Early Action/Early Decision I); mid-February (Early Decision II); late March (Regular Decision)

      SAT and ACT Scores

      The University of Chicago is a test optional school. In fall 2023, 46% of applicants submitted SAT scores and 30% submitted ACT scores. The 25th and 75th percentile scores were:

      Subject

      25th Percentile

      75th Percentile

      SAT Evidence-Based
      Reading/Writing

      740

      770

      SAT Math

      770

      800

      ACT Composite

      34

      35

      ACT English

      34

      36

      ACT Math

      32

      35

      UChicago Graduation Rate

      Graduation rates at UChicago are high. These are the rates for students who started their studies in fall 2017:

      •  4 years: 86%

      •  6 years: 95%

      Post-Graduation Median Earnings

      The median annual income for University of Chicago graduates is $91,885. That’s significantly higher than the median income for all graduates of four-year institutions in the U.S., which is $68,680.

      Bottom Line

      The University of Chicago is one of the best schools in the nation with top-rated academic programs. Although the tuition is higher than average, the admissions process is need-blind, and the university is generous with institutional grants and scholarships. The toughest part is getting in: The university’s acceptance rate is just 5%.

      If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

      Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

      View your rate

      SoFi Private Student Loans
      Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
      Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

      SoFi Loan Products
      SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


      Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


      Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.



      Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

      External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.



      SOISL-Q225-068

      Read more

      University of California, Berkeley – Tuition and Fees


      University of California, Berkeley – Tuition and Fees

      University of California, Berkeley - Tuition and Fees

      On this page:

        By Susan Guillory

        (Last Updated – 06/2025)

        Located in Berkeley, California, the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is a public research university and flagship campus of the University of California system. UC Berkeley offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees and operates on a semester calendar. This guide will provide detailed information on UC Berkeley tuition and fees, financial aid opportunities, acceptance rates, admission requirements, and more.

        Total Cost of Attendance

        UC Berkeley tuition for the 2024-25 school year was $16,347 for in-state students and $50,547 for out-of-state students. This is higher than the national average public college tuition of $11,260 for in-state students and $29,150 for out-of-state students.

        Estimated Costs for 2024-25

        Expenses

        In-State

        Out-of-State

        Tuition & Fees

        $16,347

        $50,547

        Books & Supplies

        $1,131

        $1,131

        Living Expenses (On Campus)

        $23,750

        $23,750

        Other Expenses (On Campus)

        $7,031

        $7,031

        Total Cost of Attendance

        $48,259

        $82,459

        Financial Aid

        More than half of the students (61%) have some sort of financial aid to help cover UC Berkeley tuition. That includes scholarships, grants, and loans.

        Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

        The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

        •  Scholarships: Scholarships can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

        •  Grants: Grants are generally based on financial need. These can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

        •  Work-study: Federal Work-Study provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

        •  Federal student loans: Federal student loans are money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

        Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state, federal, and school deadlines may differ.

        You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

        •  U.S. Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

        •  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

        Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

        Private Student Loans

        When it comes to student loans, there are both federal and private student loans available. At Berkeley, 20% of students take out federal student loans and 7% take out private loans. The average private student loan per year is $6,790.

        Private student loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations, so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

        What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

        Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, since it generally has better rates and terms.

        If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

        Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

        Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

        Over four years, a degree at Berkeley will cost (based on 2024-25 numbers) approximately $193,036 for in-state students. This is higher than the average four-year program at public universities in the U.S. of $115,360.

        Recommended: California Student Loan & Scholarship Information

        Repay student loans your way.

        Find the monthly
        payment & rate that fits your budget.

        Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

        Estimated Costs for 2024-25

        UC Berkeley undergraduate tuition and fees for 2024-25 are $16,347 for in-state students and $50,547 for out-of-state students, with living expenses being $23,750.

        Graduate Tuition and Fees

        Estimated Costs for 2024-25

        Expenses

        In-State

        Out-of-State

        Tuition

        $12,762

        $27,864

        Fees

        $3,104

        $3,104

        Total

        $15,866

        $30,968

        Berkeley offers several highly respected graduate programs. For 2024-25, graduate tuition (including fees) is $15,866 for in-state students and $30,968 for out-of-state students. There are graduate loans available to help with these costs.

        Campus Housing Expenses

        Estimated Costs for 2025-26

        In addition to UC Berkeley tuition, students must pay for housing, either on campus or off. While freshmen aren’t required to live on campus, 96% of first-year students choose to, enjoying amenities in one of the eight residence halls.

        The estimated cost of room and board if you live in an on-campus residence hall ranges from $11,780 to $18,710 for the 2025-26 school year.

        Those opting to live off-campus have plenty of options, and Berkeley offers many resources to help you find the right apartment, duplex, or house for your needs. This guide can help with off-campus living.

        UC Berkeley Acceptance Rate

        Fall 2024

        Number of applications

        124,242

        Number accepted

        13,701

        Percentage Accepted

        11%

        At just 11%, the Berkeley acceptance rate is low, making the university quite competitive.

        Admission Requirements

        Berkeley has high standards for admissions. Here are the things that are required or recommended with your application.

        Required:

        •  Meet the A-G subject course requirements (find out more here )

        •  Have a 3.0 GPA in A-G courses taken in the 10th and 11th grade years (3.4 GPA for non-residents)

        Recommended:

        •  Letters of recommendation

        Profile of a First-Year Student in 2024:

        •  Unweighted GPA: 3.89-4.00

        •  Weighted GPA: 4.31-4.65

        Important Dates:

        •  Application available: August 1

        •  Application deadline: December 2

        •  Financial aid (FAFSA or CA Dream Act) applications open: December 1

        •  FAFSA and CA Dream Act deadline: April 2

        •  First-year decisions posted: End of March

        •  First-year deadline to accept offer of admission: May 1

        Note: UC Berkeley does not offer early admission or early decision.

        SAT and ACT Scores

        UC Berkeley is test-free, meaning you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application. If you choose to submit them, your scores may be used for placement or credit purposes.

        Since the university is test-free, they no longer report test score percentiles.

        Graduation Rate

        Students who started their studies at Berkeley in 2017 had the following rate of graduation:

        •  4 years: 81%

        •  6 years: 93%

        Post-Graduation Median Earnings

        Berkeley graduates go on to do great things, and get paid well to do them! The median annual salary of graduates is $92,446, whereas the median for all college graduates in the U.S. is $68,680.

        Bottom Line

        Berkeley is an affordable and excellent option for students who live in California. For those who don’t, the price tag can be steep. However, the university notes that roughly two-thirds of students receive some form of financial aid, and that a full 38% of students pay nothing out of pocket for tuition due to grants and scholarships. Graduates also typically earn a significantly higher salary than the average.

        SoFi private student loans offer competitive interest rates for qualifying borrowers, flexible repayment plans, and no origination fees.

        View Your Rate


        SoFi Private Student Loans
        Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
        Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

        SoFi Loan Products
        SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


        Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


        Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.



        Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

        External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

        SOISL-Q225-064

        Read more

        5 Things to Do If You Don’t Have a Steady Paycheck

        This article appeared in SoFi's On the Money newsletter. Not getting it? Sign up here.

        Navigating life with an income that fluctuates is tricky — even if it ebbs and flows with some predictability during certain times of year or when the tourists come to town.

        You teach and have to cobble together odd jobs during the summer. Or you work in a field with peak seasons, like landscaping in the spring or retail during the holidays. Maybe you’re a freelancer dependent on your clients’ fortunes or a realtor who works on commission. Perhaps you’ve lost a job — or two or three — since the pandemic upended so much of what we took for granted.

        No matter the reason for it, it’s quite common to lack a steady paycheck. In 2024, 29% of U.S. adults had income that varied at least occasionally from month to month, including 59% of the self-employed and 41% of those doing gig work, according to the Federal Reserve’s latest Survey of Household Economics and Decisionmaking.

        An irregular income requires extra discipline and planning. But there are ways to make it work. Here are five things to do to maximize the ups and downs.

        1.    Establish a buffer account to smooth out your income. Estimate the total cost of your basic monthly living — rent or mortgage, utilities, food, car payment, gas, etc. — with a free budgeting app (we prefer SoFi Relay). Whenever you earn more than you need to cover that baseline amount, set the extra aside in a buffer account to help cover leaner months.

        (Note: Don’t try to predict an unpredictable income — by definition, there’s a good chance you’ll be wrong. Instead, once you’ve been able to maintain a decent buffer for several months, consider increasing the baseline number to include a fixed contribution toward college, retirement or other financial goals as well as a realistic budget for nice-to-haves.)

        2.    Scale your spending. Spending less when you’re earning less may sound obvious, but what about spending more when you’re earning more? Scaling your budget up and down isn’t just about lifestyle decisions like whether to eat out. It can be more extensive – if you plan properly.

        •   Make a list of expenses you can hold off on when your income is low, like home maintenance, non-urgent doctor’s appointments, or car repairs. Leave them for when you have a higher-earning month.

        •   Buy non-perishable supplies in bulk amounts during higher-earning months. You can take advantage of bulk prices and have enough to last you through the leaner months.

        •   Put a bonus or big commission into your retirement account so you won’t worry about not contributing when money is tighter.

        3.    Revisit your W-4 and automatic contributions frequently. Automation can be useful in many situations, but not when your income is changing a lot.

        •   If you have at least one job where taxes are withheld from your paycheck, make sure to keep your W-4 updated by using the IRS’s Tax Withholding Estimator. Adding or losing a job can skew the amount that’s withheld, reducing your paychecks unnecessarily or setting you up for a big tax bill.

        •   Adjust any automatic contributions up or down as needed (or make them manually instead.) This would include contributions to retirement accounts, college savings accounts, investment apps, high-yield savings accounts, Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Spending Accounts.

        4.    Consider government assistance. You don’t have to have a chronically low income to qualify for financial assistance. Eligibility is often based on your recent income, so an employment gap or dry spell could qualify you. The key is not to assume anything. Even if you’re still employed, own a home or have a retirement account, check the rules in your state for:

        •   Unemployment insurance

        •   SNAP (groceries)

        •   Fuel assistance

        •   Medicaid (insurance)

        •   Other forms of financial aid (like IRS Free File, YMCA memberships, or Amazon Prime subscriptions.)

        Extra help could be a lifeline — even if it’s just for a few months or on and off when you’re having a rough patch.

        5.    Hit ‘pause.’ You probably have memberships or subscriptions that are not essential – especially when money is tight. But you don’t have to get rid of them altogether. Whether it’s news, a streaming service, or a meditation app, avoid the hassle of cancelling and signing up again by pausing or freezing your subscription. If the pause is temporary, make sure to mark the resumption date down on your calendar.


        Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

        The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

        SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

        OTM2025061601

        Read more

        Motivational Math for the Saver Within You

        This article appeared in SoFi's On the Money newsletter. Not getting it? Sign up here.

        Let’s face it, saving for the future can be hard. It’s often tough to prioritize it over more immediate needs. Or it can’t be a priority, given your job status, family situation, or extenuating circumstance.

        Perhaps it seems futile, considering how much you’ll need in the end. Or, you want to start that 401(k), but you’re daunted by the prospect of losing money in an unpredictable stock market. Maybe you are saving, but it’s taking immense self-control not to spend the money instead.

        No matter the circumstance, it can be challenging to build up the savings you’re going to need for retirement, your kids’ college education, or an unexpected emergency. So here’s some math to motivate you.

        First, the earlier you get started, the better. And not only because you’ll have more time to invest, but because the longer you’re in the market, the more compound returns can work in your favor.

        Making regular contributions through your employer’s 401(k) plan or to an individual retirement account (IRA) demonstrates the power we’re talking about. As this chart shows, starting at age 20 rather than 35 could mean hundreds of thousands of additional dollars by age 65 — even if the 20-year-old contributes half as much each month.

        Second, the U.S. stock market tends to appreciate over time. The S&P 500 Index, the broadest measure of the market, has delivered an average return of roughly 10% over the long term (or 6%-7% when adjusted for inflation).

        And, despite the market swings in the first quarter of this year, U.S. workers contributed an unprecedented share of their paychecks to their 401(k)s — an average of 9.5%, according to Fidelity Investments, which has over 24 million plan participants.

        Third, consider this stark divide: The number of 401(k)-created millionaires with Fidelity jumped 27% to 537,000 in 2024. And yet, 40% of U.S. adults don’t have any money invested in a retirement savings plan, according to an April Gallup poll.

        So what? Your bills, fears, and countless other priorities can interfere with your long-term financial goals. But the cliches are true: Even a little goes a long way when you use a high-yield savings account, 529 college savings plan, or retirement account. And the longer you’re invested, the more likely you are to earn a return. Like they say, the best day to start investing was yesterday; the second best day is today.

        Related Reading

        •   When It Comes to Saving, Gen Z Asks: ‘What’s the Point?’ That’s Dangerous, Expert Says (CNBC)

        •   How Much Do You Need to Retire? Here’s the Truth (SoFi)

        •   How Parents Can Balance Both Retirement and College Saving (InvestmentNews video)


        Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

        The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

        SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

        OTM20250616SW

        Read more
        TLS 1.2 Encrypted
        Equal Housing Lender