<p>I just found out i got accepted as a Spring 2012 admit.
honestly, at first I was baffled, but I saw that people with lower stats than me got admitted into fall and higher got admitted by spring.
Anyways, i'm from the east coast and therefore not a california resident.
I know FPF fills up super fast, but i'm debating on whether to reserve my spot or not.
Because i'm out of state, the cost for attending UCB is very very very very high and i'm not sure if i can afford it yet so i don't want to apply for it just yet.
however, i DO know that i want to go to UCB (I also got into ucla for fall but i rather go to UCB)</p>
<p>ALSO, if you dont do FPF, is it hard to get a dorm????? for the spring semester when you start????? O_O</p>
<p>anyways, let me get to the point already.
is the FPF program really necessary?? i know its optional but is it THAT much help?
can someone (esp. those who did not do the FPF program) and went in the spring please give me some insight?
thanks</p>
<p>The FPF program depends mostly on student fees. Their fees are completely independent from UC Berkeley fees. That being said, I believe you will only pay FPF fees (not out-of-state) which is about $5500 - $6000. I’m not 100% sure on this, but it is my understanding.</p>
<p>Last year, all students in FPF who applied for housing got an offer. That was the first time that had happened, but it’s possible to happen again. Therefore, not very hard. If you decide to start in spring, I also believe it’s not very hard. </p>
<p>No, FPF is not necessary, but it can really benefit you. You get to start your Berkeley education in the fall instead of waiting until spring. You have as much privileges as any fall admit students (get to use all services on campus, go to football games, gym membership, etc). Only exception is you can’t participate in NCAA sports during the fall. </p>
<p>On the other hand, you can save money going to a community college in your area, or finding a job. It’s a tough decision to make, but as a FPF alumni, the program will helped me feel a sense of belonging to Berkeley, despite feeling “rejected” (in a sense), or not good enough.</p>
<p>FPF is basically for people who don’t want to miss out on fall semester along with the other freshmen. But, if you don’t care about that then you could just take classes that will transfer from your community college until school starts. You will be able to catch up in time.</p>
<p>Everyone I know in FPF got into a dorm who applied. As far as when you start, you’ll start when spring semester begins for everyone. There’s a CalSO in the fall where you begin your Telebears for spring semester.</p>
<p>It’s not necessary, but I would highly recommend it. It’s really awesome!</p>