PS General Instructions for the Statement of Purpose:Describe your aptitude and motivation for graduate study in your area of specialization, including your preparation for this field of study, your academic plans or research interests in your chosen area of study, and your future career goals. Be specific about why UC Berkeley would be a good intellectual fit for you.Some things to keep in mind while writing the statement of purpose: (a) think about what is read between the lines: motivation, competence, potential, creativity; (b) write in an active, not passive, and positive voice; (c) demonstrate things by example; (d) do not make excuses, but rather talk about mistakes as learning experiences; (e) if there is an important factor, such as illness, poverty, excessive work, etc., that affected your grades, mention this in an affirmative way that shows your perseverance; (f) make sure everything is coherent and linked with continuity and focus; (g) the statement should be typed, 500-600 words (approximately 1 to 1 1/2 pages single-spaced). If this is different than the online application instructions, please abide by the online applications guidelines. GPA The college GPA, as well as the rigor and variety of courses undertaken, is an important component of the admission process. The Graduate Division requires a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. Upward trends in grades are looked upon positively by the admissions committee. Fee Pay the application fee. If you are a U.S. Citizen or current Permanent Resident, the application fee is $105; for all others, the fee is $125. (Note: application fees are due for review by the UC Regents; changes might occur). RL Three letters of recommendation (preferably from faculty familiar with the applicant's academic work and intellectual abilities). [Submitted electronically through the online application]. Transcript The University is no longer accepting hard copy transcripts at the time that the application is submitted. When you submit your application, please provide a complete set of official transcripts for all post-high school education (whether or not you received a degree). You will need to obtain an official transcript from your institution(s), create an electronic copy (please black out your Social Security Number) and upload it as a .PDF file. Please ensure that your electronic transcript is less than 2.5 MB in size. Official, sealed copies of your transcripts will be requested by Graduate Division only after you have been admitted; please do not send them until requested.