Below are answers to questions frequently asked during the application process. If you have any questions that are not answered here, feel free to email them to [email protected].

How many positions can I apply to?
A total of two positions, regardless of the division (e.g., editorial and business) each position is in. For example, you can apply to two positions in editorial or one position in editorial and one in business for a total of two.
If applicants wish to apply to two positions in different divisions, they must indicate in both applications their first and second preference. Applicants will only be accepted to one position.
Although each application allows you to apply for up to two positions, we will only consider your submission for two positions across all applications (editorial, business, technology and production). Attempting to submit more than two applications may put all of your submissions in jeopardy.

Who reads my application? Who should I address my cover letter to?
The editor or manager of each department reads your application and makes all hiring decisions for their department. Names and contact information can be found on the about page on our main website.

If I’m applying to more than one department, should I tailor my cover letter to each position?
Yes, each position has different responsibilities. You may also want to tailor your resume to each position. The zip file you submit for each position should contain only the relevant materials for that application. Make sure to label the materials and your zip file properly, so we can ensure the right individuals receive your application.

How much of a time commitment does working at the Daily Cal require?
This varies significantly from position to position. We hire for more than 20 positions, and there is a wide range of required commitment among them. You can find a general overview of responsibilities under each listing and email [email protected] if you have questions about specific positions.
Generally, entry-level position workloads are manageable with a full course load and other extracurriculars. We also offer reduced workload options for those with other commitments and for those who need disability accommodations.

Do I need to be in Berkeley to work for the Daily Cal?
No, all work can be done remotely this semester.

How frequently does the Daily Cal hire?
We hire for nearly every position at the start of each semester, including summer.

What are my chances of getting in?
This varies significantly from position to position and depends on many factors, such as each department’s need for new staff members, the number of applications submitted and the qualifications of applicants.

What if I didn’t work for my high school newspaper?
That’s completely fine! Plenty of our current staffers did not work for their high school papers. The Daily Cal is meant to be a training ground for students in multiple fields.

Are Daily Cal positions paid?
Some are, some aren’t. No entry-level position on the editorial side is paid, but almost all editor positions (excluding copy editor) are. Business consultants, producers and IT managers are the only paid entry-level positions on the business side.

Does the Daily Cal offer work-study?
No. The Daily Cal, acting as an off-campus employee, has limited work-study positions available for receptionists and finance interns.

I am having technical difficulties. What can I do?
Let us know! Email [email protected], and we’ll be happy to help.

What is the difference between each type of application?
We have four applications: an editorial application, a business application, a technology application and a production application. For example, applying to the photographer position requires that you submit the editorial application, and applying to be a marketing associate requires that you submit the business application. When submitting an application, you will have the opportunity to indicate two positions you are interested in. If you don’t get your first preference, you will be considered for your second preference.

Can I hold two positions at the same time?
No. You can only hold one position during your first semester.

Do I have to be a student to apply?
Yes, the Daily Cal is a student-run newspaper. All positions you see on this website are only for UC Berkeley students. You may work for the Daily Cal up to six months after graduation. High school students and students from other colleges may work for the Daily Cal during the summer term.

What do info sessions entail?
Info sessions offer an opportunity for you to meet our editors and managers, learn more about what positions entail and ask your questions directly. We hold two for editorial and two for business/tech/production at the start of each semester. They feature most of the same information, so there is no need to attend both. Any differences will be noted on the website. They are not required.

Does the Daily Cal table during the hiring process?
Under normal circumstances, yes, the Daily Cal has a table on Sproul Plaza during the first few weeks of classes leading up to the application deadline. During the spring 2023 recruitment season, the Daily Cal will table in person and attend virtual Calapalooza and have virtual info sessions. Feel free to contact [email protected] with any questions.

If I have work samples that are applicable to both my preferences, can I use them for both?
Yes, although we recommend you submit samples that are as applicable to each individual position as possible.

What can I do if I don’t have the necessary clips?
Your best bet is to submit the closest items you have to the clips required or to create mock clips. For example, if you are applying to the news reporter position but don’t have news article clips, you can submit opinion pieces or clips from essays, or you can write a mock news story on a campus event.

How long should my resume/cover letter be?
About one page each unless otherwise specified.  

Are interviews behavioral or technical?
Most interviews are behavioral, with the exception of the marketing department. The news, night, design and photo departments have their own tests before/after interviews to evaluate skills, but no preparation is required.