Orientation

All new UC Santa Cruz students who enter in a fall quarter are expected to participate in an online "Slug Orientation" course, for which they earn 1 credit upon passing. This orientation course begins the process of academic advising and provides a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of UCSC. After participating in online orientation, students may choose and enroll in classes for their first term.

Summer Orientation is held over the course of the summer and includes separate programs for first-year and transfer students. Orientation is mandatory for all students, and is a gateway to enrolling in the first quarter's classes.

Fall Welcome Week, scheduled approximately five days prior to the beginning of fall quarter, is the next step in the orientation and advising process for new students entering fall quarter. It provides students with an opportunity to settle into life at UCSC, take advantage of important services, and continue their academic advising. Questions about Summer Orientation and fall Welcome Week can be directed to the Office of Campus Orientation Programs at (831) 459-5468, or via email to orientation@ucsc.edu. Information is also available at Campus Orientation.

International Orientation is required for all international students regardless of residency status. The mandatory International Orientation program eases students’ transition to university life and introduces students to a research university’s academic expectations, UC level writing norms, campus resources, and the UCSC and Santa Cruz communities. International Orientation is scheduled prior to Welcome Week and the beginning of fall quarter. For more information, please visit the International Orientation website.