Most freshmen begin their stay at UCSD in college residence halls where they have access to resources designed to assist in the transition from home to college and to support individual growth and development. Residence halls offer programs and unique opportunities to expand and enhance educational experiences, and provide exposure to the ideas and points of view of diverse populations of fellow students. Rooms are provided with furnishings, carpet, blinds or drapes, data connections, and telephone wiring. Each bedroom and suite lounge includes wiring for cable television.
Suites are gender specific, and most buildings are coed.
Each residence hall building contains lounges and laundry facilities, and many include kitchenettes where snacks and light meals can be prepared. In addition, mail boxes, a student activities center, and dining facilities are located conveniently nearby. Meal plans are mandatory for all residence hall students. Self-contained undergraduate apartments feature kitchens, bathrooms, living areas, and combinations of two, three and four bedrooms. Bedrooms are usually shared by two students, although some single bedrooms are available.