Policies and Contracts
Living on campus comes with important responsibilities, timelines, and policies. Whether you’re learning about the housing guarantee, preparing to sign your contract, or understanding cancellation and consolidation processes, this page covers the key information students need to navigate university housing successfully.
Housing Guarantee
UC Santa Cruz offers a housing guarantee to new undergraduate students who indicate a preference for university housing when accepting their offer of admission and meet all housing application deadlines. Learn what’s required to qualify and keep your guarantee.
Cancellation Policy
If your plans change, it’s your responsibility to cancel your housing application in the Housing Portal right away.Cancel early to avoid fees and help make space available for other students.
Gender and Student Housing
Learn how gender designation is used during housing assignments and how to update your information if needed.
Housing Contract
All students living in university housing must complete a housing contract, which outlines key policies, responsibilities, and deadlines. Review what’s included in the contract and what to know before you sign.
Residential Damage Charges
Students may be charged for damages or excessive cleaning based on move-out inspections or other assessments during the year.
Housing Consolidation
To make the best use of available space, UC Santa Cruz may reassign students through the Room Consolidation process. Learn how consolidation works, what to expect, and how housing staff support students during the transition.
College Assignment Appeals for New UCSC Students
As you prepare to begin your journey, learn more about how your college affiliation is determined—and what to do if you’d like to request a change.