<p>I'm going to transfer to UCLA this fall. I'm trying to figure out how much I need to spend each year. I've checked out the estimated undergraduate student budget on UCLA's website but there are still certain things I need someone to clarify for me. For instance, there are transportaion costs for those living in residence halls. What kind of transportation costs are they? Are classes far from residence halls? Also, what kind of personal expenses do you guys incurr? What is a reasonable amount of allowance to ask from your parents? Approximately how much do you spend on books each quarter? Are there any other essential expenses I should include in my budget? This will be my first time living away from my family so please help me if you can.
Thank You.</p>
<p>What kind of transportation costs are they?
For me, none. I take the bus ($0.25) or bum rides with friends.</p>
<p>Are classes far from residence halls?
They're a 12 minute walk from the residence halls. Add 5 minutes if you're in Saxon/Hitch, and add 3 minutes if you have classes in far North Campus (e.g. Bunche Hall)</p>
<p>Also, what kind of personal expenses do you guys incur?
Groceries, DVDs, video games, books, cell phone bill, quarters for the arcade/laundry.</p>
<p>What is a reasonable amount of allowance to ask from your parents?
I would say $20 a week, or $5 a week if you're hardcore like me.</p>
<p>How much do you spend on books each quarter?
$150 to $250</p>
<p>Are there any other essential expenses I should include in my budget?
Are you living on or off campus?</p>
<p>Allowance? uh, I haven't had an allowance in 10 years. So, can't answer that one.</p>
<p>However, transportation costs are just an estimate trying to average it out between those students who have cars, and between the costs of those who use some sort of transportation to go home during break, or every weekend. It's simply an estimate.</p>
<p>Actually...disregard that budget. It's very low when it comes to actual spending. If you add 30% above that for everything, you'll be fine.</p>
<p>hey for groceries, what do u mean? like fruits and stuff? =)</p>
<p>and cool they have arcades nearby too?</p>
<p>Flopsy and BruinMichelle, thanks for your responses. Flopsy, I'm planning to live on campus. Which meal plan do you guys recommend? The 11 meals/week or 14 meals/week? What are your experiences living in a triple occupancy room? Do you guys make use of the campus shuttles often?</p>
<p>14 Premier, never lived in a triple, never used campus shuttles.</p>
<p>14 premiere, triples are adequate, i would recommend it if you're trying to save money cuz it's not bad at all, never used campus shuttle.</p>