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College is a great place to make lifelong friends. In college, students bond over shared interests, have fun times together, and help each other through some challenging times, cementing bonds that can last for years after graduation.

When you first arrive on campus, however, making friends in college can seem intimidating. Exactly where and how do you meet people? It can feel especially challenging if you go to a large school or you’re in unfamiliar territory, like a college that’s far away from home.

Don’t stress. Making friends in college can be easy. The key is to get involved early on, put yourself out there, and always try to be your true self.

Here are some ways you can go about making friends in college.

Hang Out With Your Roommates

Whether you chose your roommate or went with a random pairing, you may or may not have a lot in common with this individual, at least from the outside. Nevertheless, it can be a good idea to try to forge a connection with your roommate. This will not only make your living situation more enjoyable, but you’ll be able to turn to your roommate when you need support.

You can bond with your roommate by cooking meals, watching favorite shows, and studying together. It can also help to be considerate and respectful of your roommate by not making too much noise late at night or early in the morning, cleaning up after yourself, and chipping in for shared supplies. By respecting your roommate’s boundaries and establishing ground rules for the room, you’ll be more likely to have a good relationship, and perhaps even become good friends, with your roommate.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Join a Fraternity or Sorority

If you join a fraternity or a sorority, you’ll have the opportunity to make a lot of new friends. While some fraternities and sororities may have bad reputations because of their hazing practices and emphasis on parties, many focus on philanthropy and building friendships instead.

Just keep in mind that joining Greek life can cost $100 to $1,000 per semester, since you are generally required to pay fees or dues. The cost will vary depending on the school and chapter you join, and there may also be additional fees for first-year membership.

You’ll also need to apply to get into a sorority or fraternity and go through a recruitment process to ensure it’s going to be a good fit. Then, if you’re accepted, you will typically live with your fraternity or sorority in a house on campus and socialize and volunteer with them on a regular basis.

Recommended: 11 Strategies for Paying for College and Other Expenses

Get Involved in Clubs

Another easy way to make friends in college is to join a club. At the beginning of the school year, colleges will typically have club fairs, where club leaders set up booths and give information about their clubs to incoming freshmen and transfer students. This is where you can learn more and sign up for an initial meeting.

Some of the various types of clubs you can join include religious, political, academic, cultural, media, and community service clubs. For instance, students can join the school paper, radio or TV station, participate in math and science groups, join an on-campus religious group, find the school’s Republican and Democrat clubs, and volunteer at local animal rescue organizations or homeless shelters.

If you can’t find clubs you’re interested in, you may be able to start one of your own. You’ll likely have to go to the proper office on campus and follow the guidelines for establishing a new club.

Recommended: How to Get Involved on Campus in College

Find Study Buddies in Your Classes

Another avenue for making friends in college is through your classes. You might start or sign up for a study group, which allows students in the same class to do homework and study for tests together. If you make a connection with another student in a study group, you might suggest hanging out after the group is over or meeting up for a coffee or meal on campus another time.

Sign Up for Sports

One of the ways that many students go about making friends in college is by joining a sports team or an intramural sports club on campus. The sports teams are for athletes who are interested in playing on schools’ official teams, while intramural sports clubs are just for fun. Schools offer a variety of different sports like basketball, football, soccer, golf, tennis, and swimming. You can check out the campus life and sports section of your school’s website and look into the options.

Audition for the School Play

Theater clubs or the theater department on campus may hold auditions for school plays. You might consider auditioning for a part and making friends with the cast and crew members during rehearsal. Putting on a play can be a strong bonding experience, allowing you to cultivate lasting friendships.

Recommended: 10 Ways to Prepare for College

Go to Campus Events

Schools are always putting on events. This might include concerts, talent shows, guest speaker series, music festivals, stand-up comedy, and more. You might ask acquaintances to go to an event and/or meet new friends there. If the event is crowded, you might need to be a little more outgoing and start up conversations with the people nearby in order to (hopefully) make friends.

Connect With Other Student Workers

If you have a job or internship on campus, you might try to strike up conversations with your colleagues, as long as it doesn’t interfere with your work. Some places students may work on campus include the college’s admissions office, the endowment office, the dining hall, the coffee shop, the art museum, and the library.

Recommended: Am I Eligible for Work-Study?

Go to Social Gatherings

If your roommates or friends are holding a social gathering or going off campus to check out a local movie theater or restaurant, consider tagging along. This can be a great way to strengthen the bonds you already have, as well as meet new people. Just keep in mind that while parties can be fun, they can also distract from schoolwork and you could end up with lower grades if you are partying too often.

Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to Studying in College

Ask People to Hang Out One-on-One

Whenever you meet potential new friends in classes or through clubs, consider inviting them to hang out one-on-one to get to know them better. For example, you might ask them out for coffee or a meal, to an on-campus concert or show, to work out at the gym, or to a sports game. While this involves putting yourself out there, the rewards of making a new friend can be well worth the risk that they’ll say “no.”

The Importance of Being Yourself When Making Friends in College

Although you may be worried about making new friends in college, you generally don’t want to change your personality or hide who you really are in order to fit in. It may be a little tough at first, but by joining clubs you’re interested in and finding people who accept you for who you are, you could make lifelong friends. It can take some time and might not always happen within the first semester. However, you’ll want to keep trying to meet and connect with new people throughout your four years at college.


💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too. You can submit it as early as Oct. 1.

Affording College

College is where you can set yourself up for professional success as well as make wonderful new friends. However, if you don’t know how you’ll pay for it, you might feel even more anxiety before embarking on this exciting next step in your life.

Fortunately, there are a number of ways to cover the cost of attending college, including grants, scholarships, work-study programs (which are also great for making friends), and subsidized and unsubsidized federal loans. If you get your financial aid letter and still have gaps in funding, you might also consider a private student loan.

Private loans are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Unlike federal student loans, they require a credit check. However, if you have solid credit (or can recruit a cosigner who does), you may be able to qualify for a competitive interest rate. Just keep in mind that private loans may not offer the same protections that come with federal loans, such as income-driven repayment plans and forgiveness programs.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOIS0823008

High school is often the first time you are able to make choices around your education. What language do you want to learn? What sport do you want to play? Would you rather learn to cook or take intro to psychology as your elective?

Choices can be fun, but they can also be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make the best choices to prepare for college.

Many students consider taking AP classes in high school, and for good reason. So let’s take a look at what AP classes are, what the benefits of taking them are, and how they can affect a student’s college experience.

What are AP Classes?

AP stands for “advanced placement” and AP classes prepare students for college, by giving them college-level work during high school. Their dedication is awarded accordingly, as they can earn college credit and placement by taking corresponding AP exams.

One of the primary motivators for enrolling in AP classes is they prepare students to take and pass AP exams. Students who earn qualifying AP scores on these exams can receive credits from most colleges and universities in the United States.

Depending on their high school’s offerings, students can enroll in one or more of the 38 AP classes that cover a variety of subject matters such as arts, languages, sciences, mathematics, and literature.

In order to enroll in an AP class, there may be prerequisite classes that you must take first. It’s recommended that even if students meet the required qualifications in order to take an AP class, that they consider carefully if they are prepared to take a college level course.

The three main benefits of taking AP classes in high school relate to saving money, becoming a more competitive college applicant, and preparing for success in college.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Benefit #1: Saving Money on College Tuition

AP classes will take up a lot of your time in high school but can also save time, and money, down the line in college. When you receive a high score on an AP exam, the college you attend in the future may give you credit that cancels out the need to take a similar college class.

Some schools may offer advanced placement instead, which allows you to effectively test out of introductory level courses in the specific subject, but may not be counted toward credit.

Policies vary by school, but the more AP exams you pass, the more credits you may be able to earn. These credits could allow you to skip classes which could save you a semester of attending an introductory English literature or Spanish class. Add up enough of these credits and you could potentially shave off an entire semester or more of your time spent at college.

Note that the policy on AP scores will vary from school to school, and not all schools offer credit for AP classes. Some schools may require a four or five on the AP exam in order to qualify for credit, while others may accept a three.

Generally, you can use AP credits to your financial advantage in two ways. You can either graduate early, which will save money on tuition, fees, and living expenses. Or, you can take lighter course loads across a four year period and can make time to take a part-time job or could add a second major or minor.

At the very least, you may be able to avoid paying for textbooks or lab fees in classes in which you have already mastered the subject matter.

Benefit #2: Making Your College Application More Competitive

When you apply for college, you typically work hard to put your best foot forward and to prove that you will thrive once you land on campus in the fall. College admissions departments carefully comb through transcripts, test scores, and personal essays to see if students will not only be a good fit at their school, but to ensure the student has every chance of succeeding once they enroll.

This is one of the reasons AP classes can be beneficial to high school students. When a student thrives in an AP class, they are essentially thriving in a college class. Before an AP student arrives at college, they will clearly understand what will likely be expected of them, how rigorous the course work can be, and what steps they need to take to succeed academically.

Alongside proving preparation, AP students could receive a bit of a grade point average (GPA) boost if they earn good grades. Some high schools, but not all, will give more weight to AP grades than normal ones. For example, receiving a B in an AP class may provide as many points towards your GPA as if you earned an A in the non-AP version of the class.

Recommended: 5 Ways to Start Preparing for College

Benefit #3: Prepare For College Better

Taking an AP course is akin to taking an actual college course, which can help you get a taste for college. If structured properly, an AP course should give you a preview of what skills you need to succeed in a college class and what the workload might look like.

Learning to manage time properly, developing strong research and analytic skills, and covering material more quickly in an AP class can be helpful preparation for the rigors of college life.

Taking AP classes can also help you identify your interests and passions which may lead you to the right college. Having a preview of what it would be like to study French, Psychology, or Chemistry in college can help guide you during the application process towards schools that have strong programs in your chosen area of interest.


💡 Quick Tip: Federal student loans carry an origination or processing fee (1.057% for Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans first disbursed from Oct. 1, 2020, through Oct. 1, 2024). The fee is subtracted from your loan amount, which is why the amount disbursed is less than the amount you borrowed. That said, some private student loan lenders don’t charge an origination fee.

College Financing Options

When it comes to paying for college, there are a lot of different options available to students, including scholarships, grants, and federal financial aid.

But figuring out what you qualify for and how to apply can be overwhelming. A great first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know what financial aid you are eligible for. For students and parents that need extra help covering the cost of attending college, student loans are a potential option. There are two types of student loans, federal and private.

Federal loans come with a fixed interest rate. With a subsidized federal loan, you don’t pay any interest while you are in school at least half-time. With an unsubsidized federal loan, interest begins to accrue right away (though you don’t have to start making payments until six months after you graduate).

Private student loans are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Interest rates can be fixed or variable and will depend on the lender. Students that have excellent credit (or have cosigners who do) tend to get the lowest rates. Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer the same protections, like income-based repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOIS0823003

In recent years, many colleges have changed their college admissions testing policies, making standardized tests like the SAT optional, and placing more emphasis on other factors, such as GPA and essays. One reason for the shift is a growing concern that these tests tend to unfairly reward students with more wealth and access to test prep courses and tutors.

The SAT might be dropping as a requirement for admissions to some colleges, but the number has an impact beyond just getting into a school. Read on to learn how SAT requirements are changing, but why taking the SAT and submitting your score can still be helpful.

How SAT Requirements Are Changing

The number of colleges dropping SAT scores as a requirement for admission is growing. However, policies vary from school to school and from admission year to admission year, so students might want to double- and triple-check before assuming that their dream school doesn’t want to see their standardized test score.

A “test-optional” policy allows applicants to decide whether or not they want to submit their SAT or ACT scores to a college. This means that you can take the SAT (or ACT) and, based on how you do and how those scores compare to the average SAT score of admitted students, can decide whether or not you want to submit the score with your application.

Less commonly, colleges will have a “test-blind” or “test-free” policy. This means that even if a student submits SAT or ACT scores, the school will not consider them during the application process.

While some schools no longer require or consider their applicants’ SAT scores, others are making it easier to put your best foot forward with scores. Many colleges and universities, including the common application, now allow applicants to submit their SAT superscore.

An SAT superscore allows you to mix and match individual section scores from different test dates to come up with a “superscore” that is higher than the SAT score from a single sitting.

For some, this takes off some of the pressure of standardized testing. It means if a student feels off on one section, they can use a higher score from a previous test to get their best score possible.

Two other major recent changes to the SAT come from the College Board (which creates the test) itself: The SAT no longer contains the essay or subject tests. This means you no longer have the option to take — or submit — these tests.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

How SAT Scores Still Matter

Colleges and universities might be changing their guidelines about requiring SAT scores, but standardized tests still matter not only in the admissions process but beyond.

Here are some reasons why the SAT and a student’s score still matter:

•  Avoiding the SAT could limit options. A student’s target school might not require an SAT score, but what about their safety or reach options? Bypassing the SAT test altogether could end up limiting a student in where they can apply to schools. With no test score at all, they may be limited to schools that don’t require an SAT score, potentially missing out on another great option for them. Forgoing the SAT test completely could mean dramatically cutting off a student’s options before the application process even begins.

•  Considered, but not required. Some schools no longer require SAT scores for applicants, but will still consider them if submitted. Sharing SAT scores can help give admissions officers a more comprehensive picture of the applicant. In addition, if the school is particularly competitive, a strong standardized test score could help a student stand out.

•  Scholarship eligibility. Some universities and nonprofits require an SAT score when applying for merit scholarships. Without an SAT score, applicants might be ineligible, losing out on an opportunity to get funding for education.

•  They’re just a piece of the puzzle. SAT scores aren’t the only thing college admission boards consider. They’ll also look at a student’s GPA, extracurriculars, essays, recommendations, and more. No applicant is just a number, and the SAT score is only one small part of a student’s profile. Oftentimes, the score serves only as a screening tool in the beginning and is considered less and less the further a student progresses in the admissions process.

•  Testing out of college courses. Applicants might not need SAT scores to apply to a school, but providing them might make them eligible to test out of core classes. In some schools, SAT scores might determine placement into, or out of 101 classes all students are required to take. Testing out of these courses could lead to graduating faster or spending less on higher education.

While students might not need an SAT score to get into their dream school, preparing for and taking a standardized test could help them secure admission, scholarships, and entry into higher-level courses.


💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Another Number that Matters: Financing Your Tuition

A student’s SAT score isn’t the only number they’ll have to consider during the admissions process. Another important figure is the cost of tuition, and students will have to start thinking of how they can pay for their education.

On top of federal student loans and scholarships, students might consider private student loans. These are educational loans available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Unlike federal student loans, private loans typically don’t come with benefits like income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness options — which is why it’s best to apply for federal student loans first.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOIS0823004

The COVID-19 pandemic shifted the landscape of internships, giving rise to more remote-only opportunities. Even as companies have gone back to in-person and hybrid work, many have made remote internships a permanent offering. As a result, you are not necessarily limited by geography when looking for a college internship. But are virtual internships valuable?

The short answer is, yes. However, there are some steps you may want to take to ensure you get the most you can out of the experience. Here are key things to know about remote college internships.

Finding Remote Internships

Colleges usually have information about internships, both those that are available during the school year and summer internships. Students can check in with their school’s career center and see what intel it has on remote internships.

Students who are looking for remote internships can also get in touch with those in the alumni organization, ask around in their personal networks, and see if their schools will be hosting any job fairs during the upcoming semester.

You might also check out the Virtual Student Federal Service, which matches students with projects from a variety of federal agencies. This program is virtual, students can be in charge of their timetable, and the commitment is 10 hours a week. The application period for the program is July 1-31 every year.


💡 Quick Tip: Some lenders help you pay down your student loans sooner with reward points you earn along the way

Creating a Home Office to Support Success

Working from home is a new experience for some people, so creating an environment that helps to maintain focus and health is key to success.

As with any office building, there are a few things that can be done to make the space healthier.

Those who will be spending most of the day in their home office may want to consider opening the windows, keeping the space clean, and investing in an air purifier.

A key piece of staying productive and reducing stress is having an organized space. When working from home, it helps to have a desk free of clutter.

Research has shown that maintaining an organized space helps with cognition, emotional health, and behavior. All of these factors contribute to how people perform at work.

Succeeding at an internship as well as at school could be challenging for students.

Setting boundaries for their work may help with prioritizing and prevent students from losing valuable study time.
Having set work hours can make it easier for students to turn “off” work mode and transition into study or relaxation mode.

Recommended: 3 Summer Jobs Ideas for College Students

Paying Attention to Health

Students should also be aware of the impact that working from home can have on their physical health.

Long hours on a computer, both writing papers and doing work for their internship, can take a toll.

To prevent eye strain, students can adopt the 20-20-20 rule. It goes like this: Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

In addition to preventing eye strain, students may want to pay attention to their posture throughout the day.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends working in a neutral position that won’t strain joints and tendons, and changing positions, stretching, and walking throughout the day, as well as performing some tasks while standing.

Physical health isn’t the only kind that can be affected by spending long periods of time at home.

Some people have reported that working from home caused them to feel more stress, whereas others said it reduced stress. Since this varies, students will have to keep an eye out for mental well-being during a remote internship.

To take care of their mental health, students can implement routines like walking, meditating, and calling friends.

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

Finding Value in Virtual Networking

Video calls are a great way to connect and network with others virtually.

Emails and phone calls are still important pieces of remote work, but with video calls, it’s easier to connect with remote co-workers and better understand them during meetings.

Nonverbal communication skills are essential to good communication.

This means that networking virtually is possible. Networking during an internship is important because internships have the potential to turn into full-time positions.

Asking colleagues to get together for a video chat to ask questions or better understand their position could improve the chance of being offered a job at the end of the internship.

Networking virtually takes planning and intentional communication, because coworkers can’t bond over lunch or chat at the water cooler.

Setting up a virtual chat to get to know colleagues better can demonstrate the ability to take initiative and how serious the intern is taking the position.

Recommended: A Guide to Post Grad Internships

Starting Off on the Right Foot

A virtual internship is going to work a bit differently from an in-person internship, which means students should be ready to ask a lot of questions.

Before beginning the internship, prepare a list of questions to ask the employer via email or video chat.

Asking questions can help students develop important leadership skills, so it’s a good habit to develop during an internship.

Starting an internship off right also involves setting up regular check-ins with a manager. They may do this already, but if not, it’s OK to ask for it to be implemented.

Receiving regular feedback can improve performance, and therefore help students get the most out of their internships.

Juggling studies and a remote internship may be intense, so part of being prepared is getting a calendar to track important dates and internship tasks.

Blocking off time in a calendar to focus on the internship tasks could prevent moments of burnout and overwhelm.

Brushing Up On the Tech

Before beginning a virtual internship, it could help students to get familiar with the common platforms that are used in remote work for communication, task management, file sharing, and online calendars.

Each workplace is going to use different programs; some may prefer Asana versus Trello when it comes to task management, and some may prefer Slack versus Basecamp for communication within the team.

There are tons of programs out there to make virtual work easier. Interns won’t be able to learn them all, but brushing up on what’s popular may ease anxiety and increase feelings of preparedness.

Recommended: Am I Eligible for Work-Study?

Documenting Your Success

It can be really easy to forget all that has been accomplished during an internship.

Most internships last a whole semester (or summer), and if students aren’t tracking what their tasks and accomplishments are, they may forget them.

This is important information for students to keep for both themselves and their managers.

Keeping things documented can help students easily add their accomplishments and new skills to their resume.

It will also make it easier for managers to write a letter of recommendation at the end of the internship.

With luck, the manager will remember the best of the accomplishments, but if they’re managing a large team it could be difficult for them to write a letter without reference points.

A letter of recommendation can help students once they enter the workforce and begin applying for jobs.


💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Keeping the Financial Support Flowing

Many college internships are paid, but some are not. Either way, you’ll likely still need financial support to cover the cost of college — which usually goes well beyond tuition.

Your funding options include federal aid (including grants, scholarships, and subsidized student loans), savings, help from parents or others, and private student loans.

It’s generally recommended that students exhaust all options of federal aid (including federal loans) before moving on to private loans.

Federal loans come with benefits that students may not find elsewhere, such as income-based student loan repayment plans.

If you still have gaps in funding, you may want to apply for a private student loan. These are available from banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms are determined by the lender. Students who have excellent credit (or can recruit a cosigner who does) generally qualify for the lowest rates.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOIS0723036

They call San Diego “America’s Finest City” for good reason: It has year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and plenty to see, do, and eat. There are parks, museums, zoos, baseball games, and vineyards waiting for you to explore.

The challenge will be narrowing down the things to do so they fit into the time you have for your San Diego vacation. But here’s help: an insider’s list of the top 10 fun things to do in this fantastic city, plus tips on planning a perfect trip.

Best Times to Go to San Diego

If you’re looking for great weather for your San Diego trip, any time of year is a good one. Temperatures are a little cooler in the winter (usually in the 60s) and can get as high as the 90s in the summer, though the average falls more in the range of high 70s to 80s.

There are a few events held throughout the year you might want to plan around:

•  January: Farmers Insurance Open (golf)

•  June/July: San Diego County Fair

•  July: Comic-Con International

•  July-September: Del Mar Racing Season

•  September: Miramar Air Show

•  November: Beer Week

•  November: San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival

Bad Times to Go to San Diego

There really are no bad times to visit San Diego, though you will find most of the bigger events and festivals fall in the summer. The ocean water is cool throughout the year, so if taking a swim is high on your list, aim for the hotter summer months.

Recommended: Financial Prep for Travel

Average Cost of a San Diego Vacation

If you’re already planning your San Diego trip, you’ll want to create a budget. Traveling solo? The average cost for a weeklong trip is $1,886. For a couple, that cost is $3,387.

Hotel prices range from $80 to $267 a night or higher if you like to stay in posh accommodations, and vacation rentals are $250 to 610 a night. The level of luxury you want in your accommodations, as well as whether you dine out or eat in will impact your vacation budget. (Of course, you can also find ways to save on hotel costs, by becoming a member at a hotel chain’s website and via other smart strategies.)

You can save on your trip if you use a travel rewards credit card that lets you accumulate and redeem points for rewards. You might compare credit card miles vs. cash back to see which is a better fit.

When budgeting for your trip, you’ll also want to include transportation to and from San Diego. For those who live nearby or are frugal travelers, that will mean a drive or a bus or train ride. For others, it means plane tickets.

You may also want to set aside some money for trip insurance, just in case your plans don’t unfold smoothly. You may have credit card travel insurance, or you might buy a separate policy.

10 Fun Must-Dos in San Diego

Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego, based on recommendations from locals and knowledgeable travelers, as well as popular tourist websites.

Keep in mind that San Diego has several distinct neighborhoods, including North Park, South Park, Mission Hills, Normal Heights, Kensington, and more. Each is walkable and filled with restaurants, shops, and events to keep you engaged. Now, consider this list of the best things to do when vacationing in San Diego.

1. Explore Balboa Park

Balboa Park was the setting for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, and, since then, it has become an icon in the city. Home to the Comic-Con Museum, Fleet Science Center, Japanese Friendship Garden, Mingei International Museum, the San Diego Zoo, and much more, the park is also filled with free things to do in San Diego. You can spend hours here, exploring all of the attractions, and, since there isn’t an admission fee, this can be a way for families to afford to travel.

However, some of the specific museums will charge for entry, so do a bit of research before you head over. balboapark.org/

2. Check out the San Diego Zoo

One of the top things to do in San Diego is to visit the zoo or its sister location, Safari Park. In addition to being able to see animals like sloths, koalas, giraffes, and elephants, you can also take part in exclusive experiences that bring you up close and personal with some of your favorite creatures. Tickets are typically $61 for kids ages 3 to 11, and $71 for ages 12 and up. (Ticket prices at the separate Safari Park are similarly priced.) The zoo is usually open daily, though hours can vary, sometimes as long as from 9 am to 9 pm. Check the website before visiting. zoo.sandiegozoo.org/

3. Explore North Park

If you’re seeking things to do in San Diego for adults and you like beer, head to the neighborhood of North Park. This hipster ‘hood is in the heart of San Diego and is home to some of the best breweries in this city known for its stellar craft beer. The neighborhood is highly walkable, and you’ll also find great options for dining and shopping. sandiego.org/explore/downtown-urban/north-park-south-park.aspx

4. Raise a Glass

If wine’s more your thing, one of the things to do in San Diego for couples or friends is to visit Temecula wine country, just an hour north of San Diego. This hidden gem offers more than 50 wine varietals, including award-winning versions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Mourvedre, Viognier, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines.
Many of the wineries have on-site restaurants, and some even offer live music. When heading to this area and maybe buying some bottles to take home, consider paying with plastic and snag some credit card rewards. temeculawines.org/

5. Stroll Around the Hotel del Coronado

One of the most unique things to do in San Diego is to visit the historic Hotel del Coronado. Known as “Hotel Del” to locals, this hotel was first opened in 1888, and was the setting for the film “Some Like it Hot” starring Marilyn Monroe. Set by the sea, this iconic red-roofed Victorian resort is a fascinating place to visit.

Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can explore its shops, restaurants, and beach. During the Christmas holidays, the hotel is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with outdoor ice skating rink. hoteldel.com/

6. Catch a Ballgame

Baseball fans shouldn’t miss a San Diego Padres game at downtown’s Petco Park. The season is March through October, though there are also special events and tours at Petco Park.

Dining options at the park highlight some of the best restaurants and breweries in the city, including Hodad’s, Seaside Market, and Gaglione Brothers. mlb.com/padres/ballpark

7. Hit the Beach

If getting some sand between your toes is on your must-do list for your San Diego vacation, the iconic Mission Beach should be on your agenda. Anchored by the amusement park known as Belmont Park, Mission Beach offers two miles of boardwalk if you crave a bike ride, jog, or rollerblade. The beaches (and parking lots) can fill up, especially in the summer, so arrive early and plan to stay all day.

Are you traveling with pets? Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach at certain hours, so this might be a good place to explore together.

There are plenty of places to get a cocktail or meal along the boardwalk. The dress code? Flip flops and swimsuits! sandiego.org/explore/things-to-do/beaches-bays/mission-beach.aspx

8. Sample Some Nightlife

If you’re looking for things to do in San Diego at night, Gaslamp Quarter may have what you need. Filled with nightclubs, bars (including rooftop options), and restaurants, it’s a popular scene. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, catch a comedy show, try an escape game, or hear music, you’ll find it here. gaslamp.org/

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9. See What Old Town Offers

One of the fun things to do in San Diego for all ages is visit Old Town, the birthplace of California. Filled with historic buildings that have been turned into restaurants and shops, Old Town is a great place to learn about the early days of San Diego.

There is also a “hop on, hop off” trolley tour that stops in Old Town, so you can see more of the city. oldtownsandiego.org/

10. Marvel at the Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum, located on the Embarcadero, consists of more than a dozen sailing ships, submarines, and steam-powered ships that you can climb aboard and explore. Don’t miss the Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (last admission at 4 pm), the museum charges $20 admission for adults; $10 for children ages 3 to 12. sdmaritime.org/

The Takeaway

San Diego offers sun, fun, and plenty of things to do. It can be a great destination year-round, and whether you’re a couple in search of nightlife and wine tastings or a family who wants to spend the day at the zoo, you’ll find all kinds of amazing attractions in this Southern California city.

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FAQ

When is the best time to visit San Diego?

San Diego sees sunshine year-round, so any time is a good time to visit. However, the weather is warm but not too hot and the crowds are fewer between March and May and September to November.

What are things to do at night in San Diego?

San Diego has a robust nightlife in certain neighborhoods. North Park is known for its craft beer and restaurants, while Gaslamp Quarter is filled with nightclubs and bars.

What are things to do in Balboa Park in San Diego?

Balboa Park is home to numerous museums as well as the San Diego Zoo. It also hosts events throughout the year, including December Nights during the holiday season.

Photo credit: iStock/SeanPavonePhoto
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