The International Student Orientation program (ISO) is designed to help you get to know other students, learn more about the campus, and ease your transition to UC Santa Cruz, with a focus on international student challenges and intercultural adjustment. During orientation, you will meet Global Engagement staff, connect with our Global Leaders (continuing undergraduate students), and learn about campus resources to support your studies and success as a UCSC Banana Slug.
ISO takes place on the UCSC main campus and is required for all new, incoming international students in F-1 or J-1 status. More information on preparing you for your arrival at UCSC can be found in the “Pre-Arrival Orientation” found in iGlobal.
Students who consider themselves international but are not in F-1/J-1 status are also welcome to register and attend.
ISO Winter 2025
Monday, January 6 from 18:00 – 20:00 in the Cervantes & Velasquez Conference Room
We look forward to welcoming our brand new class of incoming students for winter 2025! Winter International Student Orientation is required for all incoming undergraduate and graduate international students on an F-1 or J-1 visa.
Program At-A-Glance
Friday, January 3 – Sunday, January 5
- On-campus housing move-in
- For those living on campus, please go into your Housing Portal to access information on your move-in date, room assignment, etc.
- Looking to find someone to share a ride with from SFO or SJC?
- Our team is happy to connect you with other incoming students who may be interested in sharing a ride from the airport.
- Please complete our Airport Rideshare Request form by Thursday, December 19.
Monday, January 6, 2025
- 17:45 – 18:00 | Check-in and Dinner (provided)
- 18:00 – 20:00 | Orientation Program
- Welcome from International Student Services and Programming (ISSP)
- Being an F-1/J-1 student at UCSC: Maintaining your Immigration Status
- Campus Resources
- Upcoming Events
- Socializing
If you have any questions about International Student Orientation, please contact us at iprogramming@ucsc.edu.