After registering for Orientation, please complete the following steps to prepare for your Orientation session.

1) Complete the Transfer Student Module.

As an incoming transfer student, you should complete the Transfer Student Module before attending your orientation session. This module is designed specifically for your needs, providing essential details on academic advising, campus resources, and specialized support available to you at UCSB. 

Finishing this module does more than just prepare you for your Academic Department Meetings which take place at Transfer Orientation; it sets you up for a successful first quarter. Most importantly, completing the module grants you an earlier registration pass time, allowing you priority to sign up for your fall quarter courses.

Please note that a $78 fee will be billed to your account after completion. This fee covers the cost of both the Transfer Student Module and your Transfer Orientation session.

Begin The Transfer Student Module

2) Complete Department-Specific Forms.

Stay on top of your requirements by checking if your specific department has extra steps for you to complete. Some departments at UCSB may ask you to fill out forms, submit transcripts, or schedule appointments before you even arrive at Transfer Orientation.

To make sure you're prepared, review the department-specific information within the Transfer Student Module for detailed instructions, and check your UCSB email for any additional instructions for you.

3) Reserve Overnight Accommodations (if applicable)

You and your family can reserve space before and/or after your Transfer Orientation session through university-owned or independent lodging options.

San Joaquin Villages, the Summer Inn, and the Club And Guest House offer overnight reservations open to the public. All locations are conveniently located near UCSB!

The Hotels and Lodging section of our website contains a list of hotels in the surrounding areas of Goleta and Santa Barbara. Quick disclaimer: UCSB does not specifically endorse or have any formal affiliation with any of the hotels listed.

4) Make a Packing List

Transfer students should bring the following items to Transfer Orientation:

  • Access to your transcripts from all colleges and universities attended; unofficial copies of transcripts are acceptable. Academic advisors at Transfer Orientation will not have access to student records submitted to the Office of Admissions. It is beneficial to ensure you have direct access to transcripts for your Academic Department Meetings.
  • A laptop (preferred) or tablet for Academic Department Meetings (1:30 - 3:00 PM). You will use your UCSB NetID and password, and must have Multi-Factor Authentication enabled with the Duo application to access UCSB systems.
  • Comfy footwear as you will be doing some walking around our beautiful campus. If you or a guest have mobility needs, please contact us at orientation@sa.ucsb.edu so that we can provide you with information on how to arrange transportation around campus.
  • Hat, jacket and clothing that layers. Santa Barbara is known for cool/misty coastal mornings and hot/sunny afternoons.
  • Reusable water bottle. Hydration stations are conveniently located in most UCSB buildings. 

5) Prepare for Check-In

Orientation Check-In lasts from 8:00 AM - 9:15 AM in front of Campbell Hall. Parking will be available at the Mesa Parking Structure/Lot 18, and coffee and pastries will be provided at Check-In. All students, parents and guests who are registered for Orientation must check in individually, as we will provide important information and program materials for every participant. We advise that students, parents and guests arrive early to participate in morning tours (and enjoy refreshments) before our Welcome Assembly.

UCSB Access ID Card Information:

If you are interested in receiving your Access Card (Student ID card) during Orientation, you must upload a photo no less than seven days in advance of your Orientation session. You will then be able to pick up your card during at the University Center during your Orientation session. More information about Access Cards can be found through accessid.ucsb.edu.