After registering for Orientation, please complete the following steps to prepare for your Orientation session.
1) Complete the Transfer Student Module.
Transfer students should complete the Transfer Student Module before their Orientation session. This module contains important information about academic advising, campus resources, and transfer-student specific resources at UCSB. Successful completion of the Transfer Student Module will prepare students for Academic Department Meetings at Transfer Orientation and will be a strong start towards a successful fall quarter at UCSB. Students who complete the Transfer Student Module will receive an earlier pass time and be able to register for fall quarter courses in advance.
Students who complete the Transfer Student Module will be billed $78. This cost includes the Transfer Student Module and Transfer Orientation.
2) Complete Department-Specific Forms.
Certain departments at UCSB would like incoming transfer students to complete forms, submit transcripts or schedule appointments prior to Transfer Orientation. Make sure to review department-specific information provided in the Transfer Student Module for further instruction.
3) Reserve Overnight Accommodations
Transfer students and transfer student families can reserve space before or after their Orientation session through university-owned or independent lodging options.
San Joaquin Villages, the Summer Inn, and the Club And Guest House offer overnight reservations during Summer 2025. These locations are in close proximity to campus.
The Hotels and Lodging section of our website contains a list of hotels in Goleta and Santa Barbara that will be available during Summer 2025. Please note that these hotels are not endorsed by or affiliated with UCSB.
4) Make a Packing List
Transfer students should bring the following items to Orientation:
- Several copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended; unofficial copies of transcripts are acceptable. Department advisors at Orientation will not have access to student records. Students should bring copies of transcripts to make the most of departmental advising meetings.
- A laptop or tablet for Academic Department Meetings (Afternoon). A laptop is preferred.
- A smartphone or smart device capable of accessing the Duo app. Students will need this to access GOLD, the website used to register for courses. More information about multi-factor authentication at UCSB (MFA) can be found through the UCSB IT website.
- Comfortable shoes and water bottle. Orientation programming takes place at different locations around campus, and program participants can attend a variety of campus tours throughout each session.
5) Prepare for Check-In
Orientation check-in lasts from 8:00 AM - 9:15 AM at Campbell Hall. 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 before our Welcome Assembly.
If students are interested in receiving their Access Card during Orientation, they must upload a photo no less than seven days in advance of their Orientation session. More information about Access Cards can be found through accessid.ucsb.edu.