New Student Orientation at UC Merced Campus
WELCOOOMMEEEEEE
Welcome to the Bobcat family! This is a lot of information to digest, but staying on top of these dates is the best way to ensure a smooth transition to UC Merced.
Here is a streamlined checklist and timeline to help you navigate the New Student Orientation process for Fall 2026:
| Date | Milestone |
| April 15 | Orientation Enrollment Opens. You must submit your SIR at least 24 hours prior to enrolling. |
| June 3 |
Priority Deadline. Ensure you have enrolled by this date. |
| July 1 | Session Selection Opens. Return to the orientation enrollment portal to pick your specific workshops. |
| July 31 | Session Selection Deadline. All specific workshops must be chosen by today. |
| August 18 |
Commuter Student Parent/Supporter Orientation. |
| August 19 - 22 | On-Campus Move-In & Parent/Supporter Orientation. |
| August 22 |
Spanish-Language Only Parent/Supporter Orientation. |
| August 23 - 25 | Mandatory Student-Only Programming. |
Fees and Registration
- Cost: $210 covers the student and up to 4 guests.
- Billing: You don’t pay upfront; the fee will appear on your MyBill.
- Requirements: Have your UCM NetID, password, and Student ID number ready.
- Cancellation: If your plans change, you must cancel via the orientation website at least one week prior to your date to avoid being charged.
- Additional details will be added in the summer.
Student Programming (August 23 - 25)
Unlike the parent sessions, the student portion is "conference-style." This means you aren't stuck in a single room all day; you get to build a custom schedule by selecting workshops and presentations that actually interest you or help with your specific major and goals.
Pro-Tips for Success
-
The 24-Hour Rule: Submit your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) as soon as possible. The system requires a full 24-hour update period before you can access the orientation registration portal.
-
Check Your Email: Monitor your UCM email account regularly. We will send the registration link and additional summer updates directly to your inbox.
-
Guest Planning: Your registration fee covers up to four guests. This is a great opportunity to bring family along to explore the campus; just be sure to include them during your initial enrollment.
-
Stay Updated: Visit our website frequently throughout the summer. We will post the latest information and any schedule adjustments as they become available.
Please note: Admissions and Orientation are two separate offices with different deadlines and functions. It is the student's responsibility to communicate with New Student Orientation if their admission decision changes and they will no longer be able to attend UC Merced. It is the student's responsibility to cancel their Orientation date by the one week deadline via the orientation website in order to not be charged any Orientation fees. After the one week deadline, students will be responsible for paying their Orientation fees.
