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.

Student Opportunities FAQ

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Q: Can I participate in more than one Matsui Center or IGS program?

A: Yes! Students can apply to more than one program, and some students participate in two or more programs during their time at Berkeley. Acceptance into one program does not guarantee acceptance into another program. Some restrictions apply regarding concurrent participation (see FAQ on concurrent participation).

Q: Can I participate in a program more than once?

A: No. Students can only patricipate in a specific program (such as the Cal-in-Sacramento Fellowship) once. The exception to this rule are the Student Directors who return to help lead the program in a subsequent year.

Q: Can I participate in more than one program concurrently?

A: It depends. Students cannot participate in both Cal-in-Sacramento and the Schaeffer Fellowship at the same time. Students are also not permitted to participate in both Democracy Camp in Berkeley and Democracy Camp in DC during the same cycle (same academic year). However, students can participate in either Cal-in-Sacramento or Schaeffer and one Democracy Camp program within the same cycle.

Q: Can I participate in both Democracy Camp programs?

A: While it is not common for students to be participate in more than one Democracy Camp program, you can apply to participate in the Democracy Camp you did not previsouly participate in (e.g., if you previously did Democracy Camp in Berkeley, you can apply to Democracy Camp in DC). Note that you cannot participate in both Democracy Camp programs in the same cycle (same academic year).

Q: How do I determine which program is the right fit for me?

A: It is important to consider your interests and goals, as well as eligibility requirements, when choosing which opportunities to pursue. Some criteria to consider:

If you are looking for... Consider applying to... A 7-month fellowship experience that spans the spring semester and the first half of summer; Support securing a summer internship in Sacramento; Robust, hands-on professional development training; Research training; Exposure to public service in California, particularly at the state level, whether within government or in an adjacent sector (e.g...

Q: I am a transfer student. What opportunities am I eligible for?

A: Transfer students are eligible for apply for all Matsui Center and IGS programs.

Note that the Schaeffer Fellows program requires that students have at least one (1) semester remaining after the completion of their summer intership. For example, students who participate in the program in Summer 2026 must still be enrolled at UC Berkeley in Fall 2026. (In this scenario, students graduating in December 2026 are eligible). Transfer students who are interested in applying for the Schaeffer Fellows program are therefore encouraged to apply in their first year at Berkeley.

Q: I am not a US Citizen. What opportunities am I eligible for?

A: Non-US citizens are eligible to apply for all Matsui Center and IGS programs and opportunities. This includes permanent residents; undocumented students and DACA recipients; those holding Temporary Protective Status, refugee status, or asylum status; F-1 and J-1 visa holders.

In the case of internship placements, some restrictions may apply depending on status. However, these restrictions do not preclude participation in the program. Students with specific concerns are encouraged to reach out to our team (matsuicenter@...

Q: I am a Poli Sci student. Does the Cal-in-Sac course (PS 110B) count towards my major requirements?

A: No, Political Science 110B is an elective course and does not count towards the major requirements. It does count towards overall course units.

Q: I am a graduate student. What opportunities are available to me?

A: Below are some opportunities open to graduate students (master's or doctoral):

David M. Howard Memorial Prize in American Politics — Awarded to doctoral research in public policy, political behavior, or public opinion in the U.S. broadly understood). Mike Synar Graduate Research Fellowship — Awarded to dissertation-year doctoral students writing on an aspect of American politics)...

Q: Are there opportunities for student employment?

A: IGS and the IGS Library employ work-study students on a semesterly or annual basis. Posted opportunities can be found via the Work Study Student Portal.

The Matsui Center employs one Student Ambassador per semester to support operations and disseminate information about our programs with the campus community. Program alumni are encouraged to inquire directly with the Program Manager.

Q: How can I receive up-to-date information from IGS and the Matsui Center?

A: To receive information about events, program applications and deadlines, research, and more, subscribe to our mailing list. You can also follow IGS and the Matsui Center on social media.

Q: What other public service opportunities are available to UC Berkeley students?

A: There are many other public service opportunities available to UC Berkeley students. Check out the Public Service Career Resources page for more information.