Incoming Freshman FAQs

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

1. I received my residence halls housing contract but the offer is not one of my five housing preferences on my application. Why?
Students are given housing based on a lottery system. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate the housing request of each student because of the large number of applicants and the limited number of spaces.

2. What can I do if I do not want my housing assignment?
If you do not accept your housing contract by the deadline stated on the contract, the offer will be rescinded and given to the next student on the waiting list. You will need to find alternate housing; you may want to contact Cal Rentals at (510) 642-3644.

3. I accepted my housing contract but I want a transfer to a different hall or room occupancy. What should I do?
There is a moratorium on moving during the first two weeks of each semester. Also, please note that students on the waiting list take priority over students requesting transfers. Any vacancies are offered to waiting list students until the list is exhausted. After all students on the waiting list are housed, we begin to honor transfer requests according to space availability. Please visit the Housing Assignments Office at 2610 Channing Way to file a transfer request once the semester begins.

4. I forgot to return my housing contract by the deadline. What should I do?
Unfortunately, if you did not return your housing contract by the deadline or called and received an extension, we have rescinded your offer. We apologize but we have students to place in a small window of time and have to ask you to adhere to deadlines. If you do not return the contract, we offer the space to the next person on the waiting list, under the assumption that you have made other plans.

5. I met someone at CALSO and we want to be roommates, or I want to request a roommate, but she/he already lives in the residence halls. What should I do?
Each student must send his or her request in writing (e-mail is okay) indicating the name and CalNet ID of the new future roommate. Please note that we do not guarantee roommate requests, and the chances that you will be roomed with your requested roommate are very slim. The best chance for you to be assigned with a requested roommate is when you both first apply for housing.

Please note: we only honor reciprocal requests for roommates.

Housing Alternatives:

Cal Rentals
Housing counseling and listing service.
2610 Channing Way
Berkeley, CA 94720-2272