What to Do This Summer After You’ve Been Admitted to a UC Campus
Congratulations, you’re officially UC-bound! Whether you’re a first-year student heading straight from high school or a transfer student continuing your academic journey, this summer is a critical time to ensure a smooth transition to your new university home.
Before you start dreaming about the first day of classes and decorating your dorm or apartment, there are a few must-do items to check off your list. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to submit and some tips to make the most of your summer before college begins.
✅ Must-Do: Submit Your Final Transcripts & Exam Scores
First-Year Students
If you've accepted your offer of admission, make sure to submit:
Final official high school transcript
Must include your graduation date and final senior year grades.
Official transcripts from any college/university coursework you attempted
This includes dual enrollment or community college courses taken while in high school.
International coursework?
Submit your transcript directly from the international institution. UC campuses do not accept international coursework listed only on a U.S. transcript.
If your transcript isn’t in the Roman alphabet, include an official English translation.
Transfer Students
If you're transferring into a UC, be sure to submit:
Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, including all coursework attempted.
International post-secondary coursework?
You must submit your official transcript directly from the international institution, either in English or with an official English translation.
High school transcript
Submit only if your UC campus requests it.
Upcoming Deadlines
📅 July 1 – Final transcripts must be submitted (or as soon as final spring grades are posted for quarter-system schools).
📅 July 15 – Submit all official AP, IB, A-Level, and English proficiency exam scores.
📅 July 15 – For transfer students, full or partial UC IGETC certification must be delivered (posted on your transcript or as a separate official document).
Important Considerations:
UC strongly recommends electronic submission via approved transcript vendors.
Hard copy transcripts must be sealed and mailed directly to your UC campus.
Emailed transcripts or IGETC certifications are not accepted.
🌞 What Else Should You Do This Summer?
College preparation goes beyond submitting transcripts! Here are a few tips to help you get ready for college:
1. Check Your Student Portal and Email Frequently
Your UC campus will communicate important info via your student portal and UC email account. Don’t miss housing updates, orientation reminders, or financial aid notices.
2. Attend Orientation (In Person or Online)
Orientation is a must! You’ll learn how to register for classes, meet your advisors, and connect with future classmates.
3. Buy or Rent Textbooks Early
Once your class schedule is set, check the campus bookstore or online retailers for the best prices.
4. Budget and Plan Finances
If you're receiving financial aid, review your aid package carefully. Make a basic budget that includes tuition, books, food, and transportation.
5. Brush Up on Study Skills
Check out resources on time management, note-taking, and college-level reading.
6. Consider Your Transportation Plan
If you’re commuting or planning to bring a car, research campus parking options, public transit, or bike routes.
7. Order Your Student ID and Learn Campus Tools
Learn how to use platforms like Canvas, Zoom, and your UC email system. Order your student ID early if your campus allows it.
8. Connect With Roommates
If you’re living on campus, reach out to your roommate(s) to start building connections.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Starting college is exciting but it’s also a transition that requires planning and attention to detail. Don’t let administrative tasks sneak up on you. Submit all documents on time, stay organized, and take advantage of the summer months to prepare academically, socially, and emotionally. You got this!
