Start Your Journey
Getting ready for your first quarter at UC Santa Cruz starts here. From accepting your offer and setting up your UCSC accounts to arranging housing, completing health requirements, and exploring accommodations, this page covers the essential tasks to complete after admission. Knock out these requirements early so you can focus on what’s next—joining the Banana Slug community with confidence.
What to do after admission
You’ve been admitted—now make it official. From accepting your offer to submitting transcripts and getting your accounts set up, there are a few tasks to complete before your first quarter begins. Get started early so you’re ready to thrive at UC Santa Cruz.
Apply for financial aid
UC Santa Cruz encourages all students to apply by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or, if eligible, the California Dream Act Application. These forms open the door to grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study. Submit your application on time to make the most of the aid available to you—don’t miss out!
Set up your UCSC accounts
Now that you’ve accepted your offer, it’s time to activate the essential accounts and tools you’ll use every day at UC Santa Cruz. From your student portal and email to Canvas and Duo, getting everything set up early will help you stay organized, informed, and ready for your first quarter.
Apply for housing and choose a meal plan
Now’s the time to think about where you’ll live and how you’ll eat at UCSC. Explore on-campus housing options and apply on time to secure your spot. Meal plans are required for students living in the residence halls, but flexible options are also available for students living off campus. Not planning to live on campus? UCSC’s Community Rentals office provides support and resources to help you navigate the local housing market and find a place that works for you.
Start here to apply for UCSC Housing
Get your student ID card
Your student ID card is your key to campus life—it gives you access to dining halls, libraries, fitness centers, campus events, free bus rides, and more. Learn how to upload your photo and request your ID before you arrive, so it’s ready when you get to campus.
Submit your health requirements
Before starting at UCSC, all new students must meet a few important health requirements. Be sure to upload your immunization records and complete the TB risk screening through the Student Health Portal. You’ll also be automatically enrolled in UC SHIP, the UC student health insurance plan, unless you submit a waiver by the deadline.
Complete your math and writing placements
To help place you into the right writing and math courses, UCSC uses Directed Self-Placement (DSP) for writing and a placement process for math. Completing both is an important part of first-year course planning, so be sure to take care of them as soon as possible.
Connect with Slugs at a Summer Send-Off
Summer Send-Offs are casual, fun events where incoming students and families can meet one another, connect with current students and alumni, and get excited about joining the UCSC community. Whether online or in person, it’s a great way to start building your Slug support network before you arrive.
Get a head start at UCSC
Get a jumpstart before fall by taking classes, building community, or preparing to study in the U.S. as an international student. Programs and resources are available to help you ease the transition and start strong.
Access disability accommodations
If you have a disability or need accommodations, the Disability Resource Center (DRC) is here to help. The DRC provides academic accommodations, assistive technology, and support services to ensure equal access to all campus programs and activities. Reach out early to connect with staff and get the resources you need to succeed.
