PS We prefer statements that are 500-1000 words.The Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a forward-looking statement. A good SOP demonstrates that you can think critically and deeply about topics that are relevant to your intended area of study. You should discuss your prior experiences here, but in the context of how those experiences serve your future goals. One model for writing the SOP is to map out a problem space, convey knowledge about relevant existing efforts, and provide a vision for making an impact. But there is no “right” way to write the SOP; ultimately, we are looking for things like creativity, maturity, and critical thinking. If you are applying for admission direct to the Ph.D., your SOP might include a refined set of methods you would like to study and questions you would like to pursue in your dissertation. Fee You must submit an application fee when you apply. The application fee is not re-fundable. If you are a U.S. citizen or current permanent resident, the application fee is $105; for all others, the fee is $125. RL ERG requires three letters of recommendation, and will accept up to five.  You are welcome to use recommenders from your professional as well as your academic career. At least one letter must be from a professor who is in a position to assess your potential for advanced academic work.It is strongly preferred that your recommenders use the UC Berkeley online portal to upload letters to your application. On your application, you will find a section that asks you for name and email address for your recommenders. When you submit that information, the system will automatically send an email request to your recommenders with a link where they can upload their recommendation letter as a pdf. You should review your application periodically to see if the letters from your recommenders have been uploaded. You will have the option to electronically send a reminder request. If a recommender is unable or unwilling to upload a letter electronically, we will accept hard copies mailed in a sealed envelope (with signature over the seal) to: CONFIDENTIAL Admissions, Energy & Resources Group, 310 Barrows Hall #3050, Berkeley, CA 94720-3050. We will then upload the letter to your file for them. Transcript Unofficial copies of your transcripts will be accepted for the application. If you are admitted, you will be required to submit official transcripts for all college-level work. For coursework completed in the fall term of your admissions cycle, ERG will accept amended transcripts and late grade reports until the first Friday in January. There is a section of the application that will allow you to document coursework in progress.