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 UC Santa Cruz 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 UC Santa Cruz can be found under “Pre-Arrival Orientation” in iGlobal.
Note: Students who consider themselves international but are not in F-1/J-1 status are also welcome to register and attend.
International Student Orientation – Winter 2026 Program
Program Details
Date: Monday, January 5, 2026
Time: 18:00 – 20:00 (Doors Open at 17:45)
Location: Namaste Lounge
Audience: Newly admitted F-1 or J-1 first years, transfers, graduates, and exchange students
Program Schedule
- Check-In Time and Dinner: 17:45 – 18:15
- Program begins at 18:15
- Program concludes at 20:00
Optional: Airport Ride-share Interest Form
Will you be traveling solo to UC Santa Cruz, and like to connect with a fellow new student to share a ride from the airport to campus? Let us know by completing the form above.
Priority deadline (when we’ll first share access to this list) is Thursday, December 18, 2025.
If you have any questions about International Student Orientation, please contact us at iprogramming@ucsc.edu.