I’m asking for a family member who would like to know when it’s the best time to go to Berkeley and secure off campus housing. In June or July? If she secures a place in June, she won’t be staying there until school starts. Or just get there by the end of July and find a place before school begins? We’re not sure how competitive it is to obtain off campus housing in August. Thank you!
Very, very competitive - August will probably be too late. Returning students have already secured housing for next year with leases that start June 1st. They either 1) stay over the summer, 2) sublet, or 3) eat the rent until they return to campus in early August. Is this someone who is a freshman or transfer?
Married? If so, apply to University Village ASAP.
Single, grad student with parents hoping for a place within walking distance of about 10 minutes.
So go in June, secure a place, and move in beginning of August? From a quick look on Craigslist, rents are unbelievably high. Is there another place to look for rentals?
Check out International House… it’s a dorm just off campus that a lot of first year grad students live in (you don’t have to be international). Great option for new grad students.