Life in San Francisco

As an IAEP student, you attend classes in located in downtown San Francisco. There, you have quick access by bus, train or streetcar to nearly any area of the city.

Finding Housing

Housing selection depends on your interests, preferences and budget. Choose from a private or shared apartment, a student residence, or a homestay. View housing options in San Francisco and Berkeley.

You must make your own housing arrangements while studying in IAEP. Please be cautious about sending money to unknown individuals or companies offering housing. Contact IAEP for assistance with your search.

Getting Around San Francisco and the Bay Area

San Francisco and the Bay Area offer a selection of public transportation options:

Managing Your Money

Plan to arrive with money for housing, registration fees and basic needs. Here are options for managing your money throughout your stay:

Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs): Cash is available immediately with a bank-issued debit card or check card. If you don't have a U.S. bank account, you will have the most success with ATMs if your home bank belongs to the Maestro, Cirrus or PLUS interbank network. ATM exchange rates are good; you may be charged an additional international service fee, and daily withdrawal limits may apply.

International credit cards: A Visa or a MasterCard is best if available, because not all international credit cards are accepted everywhere. You can make immediate purchases, and exchange rates are good; you may be charged additional fees for international purchases.

Traveler's checks: These checks are replaceable if lost or stolen, and they are redeemable for cash instantly if they are in U.S. dollars. Checks for large sums may be difficult to cash, and checks not in U.S. dollars are subject to exchange fees.

Wire transfers: You need a U.S. bank account to receive a transfer; the service is safe, and the money is instantly available. Fees may apply.

Checking and savings accounts: You may want to open a U.S. bank account. Checking accounts are for regular payments, such as monthly bills (rent, utilities) and basic shopping needs. Savings accounts are best for larger sums of money that you do not need immediately. If you open a checking and a savings account at the same bank, you can transfer money between the accounts. Note that you will receive a debit or check card (aka ATM card) when you open either account, and you can use the card to withdrawal money or make purchases; the amounts will automatically deduct from your account. Before opening any account, be sure to research fees and services to find the right bank for your needs.

Dressing for Bay Area Weather

California has beautiful, temperate weather. San Francisco's weather is generally mild, with spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) the best months for warmer weather. See today's weather in San Francisco.

Dressing for Bay Area weather means being prepared. A foggy, cool day in San Francisco may be a sunny, warm day in Berkeley due to the area's many microclimates. Follow these clothing strategies for Bay Area weather.

Shopping

Shopping locations are easily reachable by foot, public transportation or taxi.

Groceries

Household Needs

Pharmacies

Clothing

Having Fun

San Francisco and the surrounding areas have activities and resources to keep you entertained.

Arts and Entertainment Listings

Museums

Parks, Zoos and More

Public Beaches

UC Berkeley Extension
Art and Design Center

Classes are held in downtown San Francisco. View map.

Housing Options

Where you live depends on interests and budget.

Plan Your Budget

In addition to program fees, you need to budget for living expenses. No financial aid is available for IAEP students. See estimated minimum expenses.