University of California, Berkeley Virtual Summer Academic Program

Each virtual program has its own combination of synchronous (live) course work and asynchronous (pre-recorded) coursework, which is outlined in the program description. Speak with your SAF Student Counselor for details on the course you're interested in to make sure you understand the time commitments involved with completing your virtual program.

Your virtual SAF program is designed to give you an authentic study abroad experience without travelling. You work digitally in groups and breakout rooms, cooperating on classwork and projects operating across a range of platforms and time zones!

To enhance your social and intercultural learning experience, we also run the SAF Beyond the Classroom program, a cultural and social program that builds connections between SAF virtual students across different programs. You'll be invited to meet, connect, and have fun with new SAF friends from around the world. 

Generally, SAF cannot guarantee spots in specific courses at your host university - but we can advise you about what you need to do to maximize your chances in securing the courses you want. Your SAF Program Specialist can even support you in enrolling in your classes.

The best way to increase your chances of landing the courses you want is to finish your SAF application early, stay in touch, and work with your SAF Program Specialist to ensure a smooth enrollment into the courses of your choice. 

Host universities occasionally restrict courses or expect a certain level of knowledge before accepting students into courses. You might need to provide transcripts from your home university as evidence that you'll be comfortable with the content being delivered in specific courses. 

Your home university may require you to focus purely on your major if you still need credit to complete your degree. For the period you're abroad, you're registered as a full-time student at your host university and retain your student status at home. You should check that your home Academic Affairs Office will accepts credits from your desired study abroad program, and that they're easy to transfer, so your graduation is not delayed. If you've completed all the credits you need to graduate, you can choose courses that appeal to your interests. It's wise to check the list of pre-selected overseas university courses with your college or academic office before going abroad.

Of course! SAF has a wide range of programs available for students who already have an undergraduate degree.

If you're already enrolled in a graduate or post-graduate degree, you may like to consider studying abroad in one of our graduate programs. If you're currently a working professional, you may like to consider a virtual program. Use our handy Program Finder tool to filter by these options

Generally speaking, yes! Most programs accept student applications within a year of graduation. You may need to submit your university transcripts and language scores to show you meet the admission requirements. As you may have already met the graduation requirements for your main degree at home, you may not need to request credit transfer or report to your home university about your study abroad outcomes.