If you plan to study with UC Berkeley Summer Sessions, we do not recommend entering the U.S. using a tourist visa status such as B1/B2 or ESTA (Visa Waiver Program). Please review the web pages linked, paying particular attention to the "Travel Purposes Not Permitted," as there are strong restrictions on study for both visa categories. In general, study for course credit is not permitted at all under the Visa Waiver Program.
We encourage all international students to enroll full-time and obtain the appropriate student (F-1) visa status. If you choose to enter in a status other than F-1, International Student Services will not be able to provide you with any immigration advising or assistance. If you have further questions or concerns, please contact us at visiting-intl@berkeley.edu.