Program Overview

Introduction to the Pre-Engineering Program (PREP)

The Pre-Engineering Program (PREP) is a comprehensive program designed for incoming Berkeley Engineering students. It begins with a three-week summer program and continues throughout the year with professional development opportunities, community building events, and a PREP seminar.

Program Components

The program has three main thrusts:

• Academic component: Students attend classes in subjects like math, chemistry, and computer science to build a solid foundation before their freshman year. These classes are designed to teach critical prerequisite knowledge and provide a connected and collaborative learning community.
• Professional development component: Students are prepared for the fall career fairs and learn how to create a resume, even if they have no prior experience.
• Design component: Students work with engineering Professor Scott Moura in the Jacobs Institute of Design Innovation, creating a prototype using the SPRINT design process and showcasing their product at the Design Expo to industry representatives and Berkeley Engineering faculty.

What Happens After PREP?

The PREP summer experience is just the beginning. In the Fall and Spring semesters, students participate in a 2-unit seminar exclusively for PREP students.

Eligibility

All incoming first-year students are invited to apply for PREP. The program focuses on the academic issues facing students from groups who are:

• First-Generation College students
• Students from Non-Traditional Backgrounds in Engineering
• Pell Eligible students
• Previous participants of UC Academic Preparation programs such as MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement)

Program Schedule

PREP takes place from July 14 to August 1, 2025.

Cost

Through the generous support of corporate sponsors and individual donors, PREP is free to all participants.

Application Details

• The application deadline is Friday, May 25th at 11:59 p.m.
• Students will be notified by June 6th if they’ve been accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the application deadline? When will students be notified?
  The application deadline is Friday, May 25th at 11:59 p.m. Students will be notified by June 6th if they’ve been accepted.
• Are books included in the program?
  All required educational materials will be provided.
• Is the program all day? Can I leave during the program for a family event or arrive after the first day?
  The program is a three-week commitment before the beginning of the semester. You will be expected to participate daily during the entire duration of the program. Daily schedules will be posted before the program begins.
• Is there any cost to me to participate in PREP?
  Participation in PREP is completely free of charge.
• Can I take classes during PREP? Or participate in Freshman Edge or Summer Bridge?
  No, PREP is a full-time commitment.