Life in Berkeley and the San Francisco Bay Area

Studying in IDP places you in the heart of downtown Berkeley. You attend classes in the UC Berkeley Extension Golden Bear Center on University Avenue, just a few short blocks from the UC Berkeley campus.

Finding Housing

Housing selection depends on your interests, preferences and budget. Choose from the bustling atmosphere of a dormitory, the independence of a private or shared apartment or the personal attention of a homestay. Learn more.

Getting Around Berkeley and the Bay Area

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

511.org: Comprehensive, real-time information about San Francisco Bay Area public transportation

Alameda-Contra Costa Transit (AC Transit): Buses with routes in Berkeley, throughout the East Bay and to downtown San Francisco's Transbay Terminal

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART): Light-rail trains (above and below ground) running throughout the East Bay and San Francisco, as well as to the San Francisco International and Oakland International airports

San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (MUNI): Light rail, buses, trolleys and cable cars that comprise San Francisco's primary public transportation system

Bicycle: Details about safety, theft, bike licenses and campus policies from the UC Berkeley Police Department

Managing Your Money

Aside from the money you arrive with for lodging, registration fees and basic needs, below are options for managing your money for the duration of 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, though 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 it's available, because not all international credit cards are accepted everywhere. You can make immediate purchases, and exchange rates are good; again, you may be charged additional fees for international purchases.

Traveler's checks: Replaceable if lost or stolen, these checks are redeemable for cash instantly if they are in U.S. dollars. Note that 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, but 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 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 boasts some of the most beautiful, temperate weather in North America, with plenty of mild days with low humidity. Berkeley summer months (May–October) are typically warm and dry, and winter months (November–April) are cool and sometimes rainy. See today's weather in Berkeley.

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

Shopping

From high-fashion finds to groceries, many shopping locations are within reach by foot, public transportation or car.

Groceries

Household Needs

Pharmacies

Clothing

Having Fun

No matter what you like to do, Berkeley and the surrounding areas are sure to have the activities and resources to keep you entertained.

Arts and Entertainment Listings

Museums

Parks, Zoos and More

Public Beaches

See more resources for recreation, movies, music, restaurants and more.

Berkeley Insider

Are you looking for something to do or a place to go: movies, restaurants, live music?

Get tips only the locals know.

Housing Options

Where you live depends on interests and budget.

Map of Berkeley

See where IDP is in relation to the main campus, transportation and downtown Berkeley.

UC Berkeley Campus

More Helpful Information

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