Starting college at UCLA can feel overwhelming, but this freshman checklist UCLA guide helps you move in, register, and build confidence from day one.
Use this structured UCLA freshman checklist to manage housing, academics, finances, and campus life without missing critical steps.
| Category | Key Deadline | Action Required | Owner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing & Move-In | June 1 | Confirm housing assignment and submit deposit | Student |
| Orientation & Advising | July 15 | Register for New Student Orientation and academic advising | Student |
| Registration & Courses | August 1 | Enroll in classes, review GE and major requirements | Student + Advisor |
| Health & Immunizations | August 15 | Upload immunization records and complete health insurance form | Student + Parent |
| Financial Aid & Billing | July 1 | Accept aid offers, set up student account and payment plan if needed | Student + Family |
Housing & Move-In Logistics
The housing and move-in phase is the physical gateway to UCLA, so treat it as a core part of your freshman checklist UCLA.
Secure your room early, understand roommate agreements, and note key move-in times to avoid last-minute stress.
Complete housing forms and review UCLA Housing policies to ensure a smooth transition to campus life.
Academic Planning & Registration
Academic planning starts before your first day, making it a non-negotiable item on your freshman checklist UCLA.
During orientation and advising, confirm your major requirements, general education courses, and semester-by-semester schedules.
Use this UCLA freshman checklist to track registration holds, placement exams, and tutoring resources available from day one.
Health, Immunizations & Insurance
Health requirements are mandatory for all enrolled students and must be completed before move-in day.
Check the UCLA Student Health requirements portal and submit immunization records and any medical accommodation documentation early.
Review insurance options, including the student health plan, and understand how to access on-campus urgent care and mental health services.
Financial Aid, Billing & Campus Employment
Managing money is a key pillar of independence, so include financial tasks on your UCLA freshman checklist.
Monitor your financial aid award, accept funds by deadlines, and set up your student account for tuition, fees, and housing charges.
Explore on-campus jobs and work-study options to budget for books, living expenses, and unexpected costs throughout the year.
Key Takeaways For Your UCLA Transition
- Track housing, health, academic, and financial deadlines on a shared calendar.
- Submit immunization records and insurance forms well before move-in day.
- Use orientation and advising to map out your first semester and explore majors.
- Budget for books, living expenses, and emergencies with a simple campus income plan.
- Bookmark UCLA support services and save key office contacts in your phone.
FAQ
Reader questions
When is the UCLA housing deposit due and what happens if I miss it?
The housing deposit is typically due by June 1, and missing this deadline may result in loss of your assigned room and reassignment to alternative housing.
Do I need to bring my immunizations to orientation or can they be uploaded online?
You should upload your immunization records through the student health portal before orientation; bringing physical copies to orientation is optional but helpful for reference.
How do I choose my first semester courses if I am undecided about my major?
Focus on general education courses and introductory classes in areas that interest you, and consult an academic advisor during orientation to build a balanced first-semester schedule.
What student support services should I know about before move-in day?
Familiarize yourself with tutoring, academic coaching, counseling, disability services, and campus safety resources, all of which are highlighted on your UCLA freshman checklist to ensure you know how to access help when needed.