Prepare for Campus
Getting ready to come to campus? We’ve got you covered.
Before move-in day, there’s a lot to organize—from what to pack to where your classes are. This page brings together tips and tools to help you prepare, settle in, and feel at home. Explore everything from housing, dining, and billing to student jobs, campus values, and the resources that will support you throughout your first quarter.
Slug Starter Pack
Before you dive into campus life, make sure you’ve got the basics covered. This starter pack includes everything you’ll want to review, pack, and plan before move-in—so you can show up feeling confident, connected, and ready to thrive at UCSC.
Get to know our community values
At UCSC, being part of the community means showing up with respect, care, and accountability. Explore the values that guide us—like inclusion, safety, and well-being—through key programs and trainings that help create a welcoming environment for all Slugs.
Get ready for on-campus housing
Get ready for move-in and learn what to expect from your on-campus living experience. Find important move-in dates and details as well as information about housing amenities like laundry, Wi-Fi, and shared spaces.
Discover where (and what) to eat
UCSC offers a variety of dining halls, coffee bars, cafes, and markets across campus. Check out hours of operation and find the best spots to grab a meal, snack, or coffee between classes.
Learn how to get around campus
Whether you’re walking, biking, taking the campus shuttles, or bringing a car, UCSC Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) has the info you need. Learn about transit options, parking permits, bike programs, and more.
Connect with student support services
UCSC offers a network of support to help you thrive. Use Slug Success to connect with advisors, schedule appointments, find campus resources, and stay on track throughout your academic journey.
Manage and pay your student bill
Find all the information you need to view, manage, and pay your UCSC student bill online. Learn about e-billing, payment options, and important deadlines to stay on track.
Find and apply for student jobs
Planning to work on campus during your first quarter? Get a head start by exploring job opportunities and application steps before you arrive. This guide walks you through how to find and apply for campus jobs so you can begin earning and gaining experience right away.
Things to do before you move to UCSC
Get ready for life on campus by checking off these important tasks. From what to pack to how to stay connected, this list will help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to thrive at UC Santa Cruz.
Pack and Plan
- Start packing early: Use the UCSC What to Bring list to guide you. Double-check what’s already provided in your space and what not to bring. Remember to bring layers—it gets chilly!
- Coordinate with your roommate(s): Reach out ahead of time to talk about shared items (like a mini fridge or rug) and begin building a positive connection. Your housing assignment and roommate information will be available in late August.
- Label your stuff: Label boxes and bags with your name and room number to help avoid mix-ups during move-in.
- Don’t forget to bring your ID, insurance card, medications, and important documents.
Get tech-ready
- Set up your tech: Make sure your devices are charged and updated. Bring chargers, a power strip, headphones, and any academic tools like a laptop or calculator.
- Check your UCSC email regularly: Important updates—including your enrollment date, housing information, and billing reminders—will be sent to your UCSC email. Make it a habit to check frequently.
- Follow UCSC on social media: Get to know the UCSC vibe, find out about events, and stay informed. Start with @ucsc on Instagram and @ucsc on Twitter.
Prepare for campus life
- Explore UCSC’s community values: Learn what it means to be part of a caring, inclusive, and respectful campus. Explore our community values
- Get ready for on-campus housing: Review move-in information and check out amenities and what’s included in your residential space.
- Discover where (and what) to eat: UCSC offers dining halls, cafés, and markets across campus. See dining locations and hours to find your go-to meals and coffee stops.
- Learn how to get around campus: Whether you’re biking, walking, or taking a shuttle, Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) has everything you need—from transit maps to parking permits.
- Figure out where your classes are: Log into MyUCSC to check your class schedule. Use the interactive campus map or central campus walking map to get a sense of walking time.
- Manage and pay your student bill: Check balances, understand deadlines, and explore payment options through Student Business Services
Get connected
- Connect with student support services: Use Slug Success to schedule appointments, find campus resources, and connect with advisors.
- Explore student resources: Browse the UCSC Resource Directory to see what’s available to support your success.
- Get involved on campus: Check out student organizations to meet new people and find your community.
- Discover what’s happening: Preview events like Welcome Week and get excited about your first days on campus.
- Find and apply for student jobs: Start building experience and earning money before classes begin. Learn how to apply for campus jobs
Take a Breath, Slug! You got this and we’ve got you!
- Reach out if you need support: It’s normal to feel excited, nervous, or unsure. If you have questions or need help, connect with your Orientation Leaders or talk to someone you trust.