My S18, a freshman applicant, got an email from Cal today describing a summer and fall program and asking him to inform them by Jan 5 whether he would be interested in it if he were admitted. I imagine they offer this because of possible over enrollment, but he actually would be very interested in something like this. I’m wondering if it’s been sent out to all applicants?
I am a prospective Berkeley student myself and I received the same email. I was wondering the same thing you are.
They probably have a lot of kids they’d like to admit but can’t make the numbers work for the fall. To keep him on the hook (vs. him SIRing elsewhere so he can start in the Fall, they offer the opportunity to study abroad (Global Edge) or participate in the Fall Program for Freshmen (FPF) where they take classes just off campus (if FPF Berkeley) or in San Francisco. Kids taking advantage of those programs are not counted in the fall admit headcount. I vaguely remember my D (now a sophomore) getting some information but wasn’t sure what it was or why it was being offered (she wound up being a fall admit). Here’s the link to the site:
http://admissions.berkeley.edu/januarystart
I have heard mixed things about the FPF (including the additional 2K cost), but you should really read up on it and get some more data points. At the end of the day, if really wants to go to Cal, and one of these options is of interest and workable for your family, go ahead and have him express interest.