Move-In Day Details

Get ready for move-in

Move-in day is an exciting milestone—and we’re here to help make it go as smoothly as possible. Below, you’ll find the essentials for arriving, checking in, parking, picking up your keys and ID, and knowing what to expect throughout the day.

Whether you’re a new student or a friend or family member lending a hand, this guide will help you feel prepared.

Arrival and check-in

You can find your check-in location on our Move In Schedule page. To review your move-in appointment date and time, log in to the Housing Portal (appointment selection opens August 20 via a link emailed by UCSC Housing).

Need ADA accommodations for move-in? If you’re already affiliated with the Disability Resource Center (DRC), please reach out to your assigned Accommodations Specialist. If you have not yet affiliated with the DRC, or are unsure who your Accommodations Specialist is, contact the Disability Resource Center. For more information about how to affiliate, please visit the DRC website.

Parking and unloading

Each student is allowed one vehicle for move-in due to very limited space. You’ll receive unloading instructions when you check in.

Vehicle restrictions

To keep traffic moving and everyone safe:

Large vehicles (over 19’1” x 6’3″ x 6’1″), RVs, cargo or utility trailers, and U-Hauls are not permitted.
Don’t block roads, fire lanes, ADA/medical spaces, or marked areas. Unattended vehicles in these areas may be towed.

Quick unloading for a smooth move-in

You’ll have 15 minutes to unload at your residence. After that:

Move your vehicle to an alternative lot (we’ll direct you!).
Return to help unpack, decorate, and settle in.
Many families use this time to pick up any last-minute items off campus.

Tip: Set up a ParkMobile account ahead of time for on-campus parking after unloading.

Keys and student ID cards

Depending on your room assignment, you may be issued brass keys or a temporary key card, or your student ID card may act as your key.

New students: Present photo identification and student ID number in order to receive your student ID card, quarterly bus pass sticker, and keys.
Continuing students: Present your student ID (or another form of photo identification) and student ID number in order to receive keys.

Reminder: If you have not yet submitted a photo, follow these instructions and do so immediately.

Sammy using key card to go into residence hall

Friends, family, and staying on campus

We’re so glad to welcome your guests to campus! Families and friends are encouraged to attend—just remind them: one vehicle per student.

Campus tours

Guests can explore UCSC with a student-led small group campus tour (registration required), or take a self-guided tour using our VisiTOUR app. Check out our Tours page for more information and to register.

After move-in

Once students are moved in, we recommend that guests give them time to settle into their new surroundings. We have welcome events, orientation activities, and opportunities to meet new friends all weekend long!

College-specific family events

Many of UCSC’s colleges host family-friendly welcome events during move-in. Stop by to meet staff, grab a snack, or ask questions.

Coming soon!

This space will be updated with welcome events details as soon as the full schedule is available.

What’s open on campus during move-in?

Bay Tree Campus Store

Open Thursday–Sunday, September 18–21, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Visit the Bay Tree Campus Store website for more information.

Dining locations

Campus dining halls will be open throughout move-in. Porter Market, Merrill Market, and Slug Stop will also be open Friday–Saturday, September 19–20. Check out UCSC Dining locations, hours, and menus for more information.

UCSC libraries

Visit UCSC Library Hours for further information.

Restrooms

Restrooms will be available at check-in locations and in residential buildings.