I would like to know how much it costs to attend UCLA (in-state) with housing and any other costs. Is the estimate they give accurate or does it overstimate/understimate the cause?
Based on the figures here: https://www.admissions.ucla.edu/prospect/budget.htm
Tuition: that is a flat rate, no wiggle room
Room/board: depends on your living situation; if you get a single in the plaza that is obviously gonna be a lot more than a triple in a residential hall, which can go as low as ~$11,300/year instead of ~15,000/year estimate. I’ve also found that apartments can be cheaper than the dorms, although you do have to factor in utilities and grocery shopping in addition to rent. Here’s a link to the cost of the various housing options: https://housing.ucla.edu/my-housing/rates-contracts-rules/2014-2015-contract-housing-rates-and-payment-plans
Books and supplies: If you buy used textbooks or borrow your friend’s then you pay much less than the amount listed, especially if you avoid buying new from the textbook store. Some things you have to buy there or the Course Reader store because of special book bundles or whatever, but for the most part you can find stuff elsewhere like Amazon for cheaper.
transportation: I have neither a car nor a bus pass, so my transportation costs are basically zero. If you do have a car you’ll need to factor in a parking permit.
personal: this depends on the person; I probably spend ~$100/month on stuff like eating out, movies, personal items, etc but I know people who go out to dinner/clubs almost every night and I know people who never go out at all so that estimate is not set in stone
health insurance: UCLA will automatically enroll you in UCSHIP, which is the amount listed; are you on your parents’ health insurance? If so then you can waive UCSHIP and that fee will not apply. You will have to pay more to use services at Ashe though if you opt out.
can’t really say anything about the loan/document fees