Online Module and in-person Session
To ensure that you are ready for your first quarter, UCSB offers a two-step transfer orientation process.
1.
Complete the UCSB Transfer Student Module.
Completion of this online module will enable you to register early for your fall classes; your registration appointment time on GOLD will be moved up to a date in mid-August.
- The 2025 deadline to complete the Transfer Student Module and receive an earlier registration pass time is Monday, August 4.
- Learn more about how to complete the UCSB Transfer Student Module.
2.
Attend an in-person Transfer Orientation session.
Some major departments will expect you to attend in order to receive academic advising that is critical to a successful transition experience. Register for and learn more about the Transfer Orientation sessions.
Please note: Space in the in-person Transfer Orientation is limited and session dates will close when they are full. We encourage you to submit your reservation promptly if you would like to attend.
There is an orientation fee for the online module and the in-person session. See fees and billing for information on fees, payment, and financial assistance.
By participating in the transfer orientation program, you will:
- Receive important messages and advising information from your college and major department
- Understand the academic and community expectations of a UC Santa Barbara student
- Learn to navigate your transition to a research university
- Learn about resources available at UCSB
- Make connections with new and current UCSB students
- Learn to navigate the UCSB campus
- Register early for fall classes in mid-August (you must complete the transfer module by the deadline to obtain an earlier registration pass time)
Major Department Academic Meeting
Transfer students who attend the in-person orientation will meet with their major department during the session for an academic meeting and/or academic advising. Please note that the academic meeting format varies by department.
If you choose not to attend, please note:
- Due to the high volume of students, departments are often not able to provide academic advising prior to the orientation sessions.
- Biological Sciences; Communication; Economics; Psychological & Brain Sciences - Incoming transfer students in these major departments will not be able to make an appointment with their department advisor until after the transfer orientation sessions have concluded.
Before making an appointment to see their advisor, all new transfer students should complete the transfer student module.