Student Opportunities

Student FAQ

Have a question about the Matsui Center or IGS? Here are some common questions we receive from students.

Don't see the question you're looking for? Reach out to igs@berkeley.edu or matsuicenter@berkeley.edu.

Q: I am an international student, am I eligible to participate in one of your public service internship programs?

A; If you are an F-1 international student, unless internship experience is a requirement for all students in your major, you are not eligible to participate in this internship program. For more information, please consult with your academic advisor and/or staff at the Berkeley International Office. While ineligible for our internship programs, international students are eligible to participate in our Democracy Camps and we encourage them to apply!

About the Program

The Cal-in-Sacramento Fellowship is designed to train the next generation of public service leaders through a highly supportive and comprehensive approach to experiential learning.

Fellows develop critical skills and engage thoughtfully with key policy issues using a 3-pillar model, combining coursework, research training, and professional development. These components provide the foundation for the Cal-in-Sacramento capstone: the summer public service internship.

Cal-in-Sac Supplemental Fellowships

Cal-in-Sacramento Supplemental Fellowships

Most summer internships are unpaid. To assist with affordability and ensure that this life-changing public service opportunity is open to all student regardless of financial status, the Cal-in-Sac Fellowship Program provides students with free, shared housing at Sac State, a $200 transportation stipend, and a modest living stipend (usually $1,500). Cal-in-Sacramento applicants are also invited to apply to one of the following supplemental Fellowships, which includes a larger living stipend ($2,550)...

Public Service Career Resources

Submit additional resources and opportunities to matsuicenter@berkeley.edu.

About the Program

The Matsui Pathways to Federal Public Service Fellowship Program is a new, holistic, and immersive experience that opens doors and increases access to opportunities to work in DC-based federal government and government-adjacent roles by offering: financial support | exposure to public service career paths in or alongside federal government | mentorship | career readiness training

The Pathways to Federal Public Service Fellowship Program is designed to inspire students who represent a diverse cross section of society – particularly first-generation and low-income students – to...

How to Apply to Democracy Camp

Application

The 2027 Democracy Camp application is due by Sunday, November 1, 2026 at 11:59pm.

The application includes:

Brief questionnaire One short answer section Two essay questions (250 words each) Resume Unofficial transcript(s) from all higher education institutions

Resume tips and sample resumes can be found on the Cal Career Center website.

NOTE: Prospective applicants are instructed to carefully review the...

How to Apply to Schaeffer Fellowship

Application

The 2026 Schaeffer Fellowship application is due by Sunday, October 4, 2026 at 11:59pm. The application includes:

Brief questionnaire Your plan to secure a summer internship Two essay questions (250 words each) Resume Unofficial transcript(s) from all higher education institutions

Resume tips and sample resumes can be found on the Cal Career Center website.

Selection Process

Selected applicants will be invited to...

How to Apply to Cal-in-Sacramento

Application

The 2027 Cal-in-Sacramento application is due by Sunday, October 4, 2026 at 11:59pm. The application includes:

Brief questionnaire Three ideas for your summer internship Two essay questions (250 words each) Resume Unofficial transcript(s) from all higher education institutions Optional: Supplemental application for one of three Cal-in-Sacramento Supplemental Fellowships
...

How to Apply to the Percy Grant

Application

The Percy Grant application is due by Sunday, November 29, 2026 at 11:59pm.

The application includes:

Brief questionnaire Essay Budget and brief description of research expenses Resume Transcript(s) Name of recommender (faculty member or GSI) Recommendation

All applicants are required to secure a recommendation from a UC Berkeley faculty member or GSI. Your recommender must submit a letter of recommendation via the...