Getting Started

Getting started at UC Berkeley

We know getting started at Berkeley can be exciting and a little overwhelming. Here is our list of a few things to get you started.
students and bubbles in the foreground with sather gate in the background

1 – Create your CalNet

After you accept your offer of admission, you will receive an email with instructions to create your CalNet ID, which will become the basis of your UC Berkeley online identity. You will use your CalNet ID to create your @berkeley.edu email and access other services. Claiming your CalNet ID.

2 – Check out the Graduate Student Resources Guide

This Graduate Student Resources Guide covers everything from submitting transcripts to residency and parking passes. Review prior to your arrival, there are resources like accommodations for students with disabilities that are important to start setting up early to avoid long wait times.

3 – Learn about the New Graduate Student Orientation (NGSO)

New Graduate Student Orientation (NGSO) is an orientation hosted in August by the Graduate Division. NGSO is designed to supplement orientations held by your department, school, or program. Learn more about NGSO.

4 – Check your email

You should be receiving/have received communications with helpful information and important things to complete. If you missed these emails, we will add them below.

5 – Find housing!

The Bay Area is an incredible (and competitive) place to live, but there are options:
  1. Housing Tips from Graduate Division
  2. Graduate Student University Housing where graduate students get priority and are specifically configured for a graduate student lifestyle.
  3. Berkeley Student Cooperative 
  4. Cal Rentals can help narrow your search.

6 – International students, visit the Berkeley International Office website

Review Berkeley International Office’s important and time sensitive tasks to obtain visas, training, and immunization requirements.

7 – Review a few details about your finances

Cal Student Central (different from CalCentral) is the place for key university business related to financial aid, fees and billing, payments, disbursements, registration, and enrollment. Connect with your Graduate Student Affairs Officer (GSAO) about funding opportunities and program-specific next steps and details. If you will receive fellowships and awards – get familiar with disbursements, residency requirements, and sign up for Direct Deposit as soon as possible. 

8 – Get familiar with CalCentral

Visit CalCentral, where you can check academic progress, financial aid, and bCourses. CalCentral will also show any required onboarding tasks.

9 – Learn about the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)

Learn about the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) and take note of any important details if you would like to waive SHIP.

10 – Make sure you’re vaccinated.

Review the Mandatory Immunizations Program for all immunization requirements and deadlines including Covid-19.

Other important information for new students

Technical Support

Here are a few technical support details that might be helpful:

Events for new graduate students