Grad Life#

Life as a graduate student at Berkeley extends well beyond research. This section collects practical guides on housing, healthcare, finances, and navigating day-to-day life in the Bay Area — written by current and former students who have been through it.


Housing in Berkeley

Advice on finding apartments, navigating Berkeley’s rental market, and tips from students who have been through the search.

Housing in Berkeley
Financial Resources

Information on stipends, emergency funds, and other financial support available to grad students.

Financial Resources and Support
Health Insurance

Overview of UC SHIP and other healthcare options for Berkeley graduate students.

Health Insurance
California Residency

How to establish California residency during your graduate studies and why it matters for tuition.

California Residency
Getting Around Berkeley

Transit options, bike resources, and tips for getting around Berkeley and the Bay Area without a car.

Getting Around Berkeley
Voting in California

Voter registration, deadlines, and resources for participating in California elections as a Berkeley grad student.

Voting in California