uc santa cruz admissions tour

Freshman requirements

• Subject requirement (A-G)
• GPA requirement
• Admission by exception
• English language proficiency
• UC graduation requirements

Additional information for

• California residents
• Out-of-state students
• Home-schooled students

Transfer requirements

• Understanding UC transfer
• Preparing to transfer
• UC transfer programs
• Transfer planning tools

International applicants

• Applying for admission
• English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
• Passports & visas
• Living accommodations
• Health care & insurance

AP & Exam credits

Applying as a freshman

• Filling out the application
• Dates & deadlines
• Personal insight questions
• How applications are reviewed
• After you apply

Applying as a transfer

Types of aid

• Grants & scholarships
• Jobs & work-study
• California DREAM Loan Program
• Middle Class Scholarship Program
• Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan
• Native American Opportunity Plan  
• Who can get financial aid
• How aid works
• Estimate your aid

Apply for financial aid

• Cal Dream Act application tips
• Tuition & cost of attendance
• Glossary & resources
• Santa Barbara
• Campus program & support services
• Check majors
• Freshman admit data
• Transfer admit data
• Native American Opportunity Plan

UC Santa Cruz

With its jaw-dropping coastline, towering redwood forests and cosmopolitan vibe, UC Santa Cruz offers a lifestyle that’s tough to beat. And as one of the world’s top 50 universities, it has a world-class reputation to match.

Here, nearly 20,000 students choose from 70 majors, across the arts, humanities, physical and biological sciences, social sciences and engineering. This rich diversity, combined with a close-knit community atmosphere enhanced by our 10 distinctive residential colleges, makes UC Santa Cruz a spectacular place to live and learn.

We’re also renowned for the quality of our research. From building ultra-efficient solar cells, to developing personalized treatment for cancer patients, UC Santa Cruz’s research gets results—and recognition too. In 2019, UC Santa Cruz was honored with election to the 65-member Associate of American Universities, one of the most prestigious honors in higher education. This membership recognizes our high-impact research, along with our achievements in social mobility.

It’s a great time to come join us.

Freshman admit stats

Applicants: 68,821

Admits:  43,159

Overall admit rate:  62.7 %

See more freshman stats

Transfer admit stats

Applicants:  11,193

Admits:  7,222

Overall admit rate:  64.5 %

See more transfer stats

Admissions contact information

University of California, Santa Cruz 1156 High St. Santa Cruz, CA 95064 (831) 459-0111 Office of Admissions — Evaluation and Application Services 150 Hahn Student Services (831) 459-4008 Office of Admissions — Information for Prospective Students (831) 459-4008 [email protected]  

More campus contacts

Child Care Early Education Services (831) 459-2967 Disability Resource Center 125 Hahn Student Services ucsc.zoom.us/j/952521577 [email protected] Educational Opportunity Programs 121 Academic Resources Center (831) 459-2296 [email protected] Financial Aid and Scholarship Office 205 Hahn Student Services (831) 459-2963 Housing, Family Student 599 Koshland Way (831) 459-4080 [email protected]   Housing, Off-campus Community Rentals Office 104 Hahn Student Services (831) 459-4435 [email protected] Housing, On-campus 104 Hahn Student Services (831) 459-2394 [email protected] International Admission 150 Hahn Student Services (831) 459-4008 [email protected] Out-of-State Admission 150 Hahn Student Services  (831) 459-4008 [email protected] Registrar 190 Hahn Student Services (831) 459-4412 [email protected] Services for Transfer and Re-entry Students Kresge College  (831) 459-2552 Tour Information (831) 459-4008 [email protected] Virtual Tour: admissions.ucsc.edu/#virtualtour

Additional Resources

General Catalog Academic Divisions Arts Humanities Jack Baskin School of Engineering Physical and Biological Sciences Social Sciences Undergraduate Academic Programs

Flyby Video (part 1)

Flyby Video (part 2)

Santa Cruz up close

• Student housing
• Support services
• Financial aid

Plan a visit

• Visitor information
• In-person tour
• Virtual tour

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation

Slug Families

• What Supporters Can Do
• University Expectations & Practices
• Family Orientation
• Tips for Students
• Tips for Parents/Families
• Conditions of Admission
• Move-in Details
• Planning Ahead
• Summer Course
• Summer To-Do List
• The First 6 Weeks
• Your Support
• Self-guided Tour
• Virtual Tour
• Family Days
• StoryCruz Podcast
• UCSC Magazine
• Parents and Families Newsletter
• Ways to Give
• Academic Advising
• Billing & Making Payments
• Key Dates: Calendars
• Global Engagement
• Housing & Dining
• Student Health
• Summer Session

Home / Family Online Orientation / Tour the Campus (virtually)

• Tour the Campus (virtually)

Become acquainted with UC Santa Cruz with virtual tours .

Tour the Campus Virtually

**In order to use the tour on this link, click the camera icons to look at that specific part of the campus. Each of the images that appear upon clicking the camera icon is a 360-degree picture. In order to view the whole picture, you will have to either scroll or click the image and drag your mouse to either side.

• Slug Families!
• Transition to College
• Orientation Course
• FERPA and Student Privacy
• The Colleges
• Meeting Deadlines
• Principles of Community
• Advice from UCSC Families
• Support from a Distance
• Academic Support
• Financial Aid
• Bills and Payments
• Policies at UCSC
• Health & Immunization
• Living on and off campus
• Campus Resource Centers
• HSI Initiatives for All Students
• Transportation
• Santa Cruz Community
• Safety on Campus
• Global Learning
• Alumni Engagement
• Take a Brief Survey
• Report an accessibility barrier
• Land Acknowledgment
• Accreditation

Last modified: February 14, 2024 128.114.113.87

Experience University of California- Santa Cruz

Virtually explore University of California- Santa Cruz in a fully immersive 360-degree experience.

Aria doesn't work without JavaScript.

Need to know how to enable it? Go here.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation
• Awards & Honors
• News by topic
• News archives
• E-Newsletter
• Tuesday Newsday
• UCSC Magazine
• Administrative Messages

Home / 2023 / March / Notice from Office of Admissions: Admitted Student Tours Beginning April 3

Notice from Office of Admissions: Admitted Student Tours Beginning April 3

To:   UC Santa Cruz community

From:   Michelle Whittingham, Associate Vice Chancellor, Enrollment Management and Interim Director of Undergraduate Admissions

March 06, 2023

Dear Colleague,

As we draw closer to our admitted student programs and services, I want to provide you with important dates for your calendars.

We expect close to 7,000 visitors in the next few months, including many who will travel from across California or another state or country. Admitted students and their families will be seeking to understand if UC Santa Cruz is the place for them to invest their time and money to pursue their educational and career goals. Please be prepared for them to ask you questions. Your Banana Slug hospitality and patience will affirm the positive qualities and character of our community. When you happen upon individuals or groups that seem lost, we appreciate your help in seeking to understand how you can help guide them to their intended destination. Our main activities are as follows: Admitted Student Tours (Cultural Center at Merrill College)

Week 1 - Monday, April 3 - Friday, April 7

Week 2 - Monday, April 10 - Friday, April 14 

Banana Slug Day (Quarry Plaza)

Saturday, April 15

We will also be hosting Saturday tours (three tours a day) on selected Saturdays in March and April.

First-year students began to learn of their admission beginning in late February and will wrap up by mid-March. Transfers will follow shortly thereafter and ideally be wrapped up by late April. Upon the notifications, your area will begin to see more phone and email traffic, prior to the campus visit programs. Please do your best to help students and families via these modalities as well.  

If you have questions about these efforts, or if you see areas around campus that need attention, please contact the Events Coordinator in Undergraduate Admissions ( [email protected] or 459-5362). 

Thank you in advance for your continued partnership yielding the best students for this fall's incoming class…our future alumni!

Michelle Whittingham

Associate Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Interim Director of Undergraduate Admissions

University News

• University News Home
• Monthly Newsletter

Other News & Events

• Campus Calendars

• UCSC Chancellor
• Press Releases
• Contacts for Reporters
• Send us an email
• Report an accessibility barrier
• Land Acknowledgment
• Accreditation

Last modified: March 6, 2023 128.114.113.87

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation

Office of the Registrar

• Academic and Administrative Calendar
• Google Calendar
• Final Examinations
• Future Calendars
• Other Administrative Calendars
• Calendar Guidelines
• Summer Session Calendar
• Student Fees
• Residency for Tuition Purposes
• Undergraduate Part-Time Program
• Refund Schedule
• Schedule of Classes
• General Education Requirements
• American History and Institutions Courses
• Special Programs
• UndergraduatePart-Time Program
• Veterans Benefit Services
• Undergraduate Majors
• Proposed Majors
• FAQs for Student Enrollment
• Transfer Student Brochure
• Transcripts
• Verifications
• Evaluations
• Privacy of Student Records
• Disposition of Records Schedule
• FAQs for Faculty and Staff: Privacy of Student Records
• Commencement of Instructional Activity
• Curriculum Management Project
• Privacy/FERPA
• Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Questions
• Staff Directory
• FAQs for Students
• FAQs for Faculty
• FAQs for Staff
• UC Complaint Process
• Classroom Scheduling / Reservations

Home / UCSC General Catalog / Archive of General Catalogs / 2013-14 General Catalog / Undergraduate Admission

• Undergraduate Admission
• 2013-14 General Catalog

Undergraduate admission to the University of California is based on academic achievement, as well as a wide range of personal accomplishments and educational contexts. Minimum admission qualifications are the same for each UC campus, but each campus uses faculty-approved selection criteria when the number of qualified applicants exceeds capacity.

If you are considering applying to UC Santa Cruz, the Office of Admissions wants to help you learn more about the campus and its distinctive educational programs. For more information, see admissions.ucsc.edu .

If you are able to visit the campus, you may wish to take a student-led tour. The Office of Admissions offers tours on weekdays, and reservations are required. Visit our web site at admissions.ucsc.edu/campustours for information and reservations for campus tours. Please see admissions.ucsc.edu/transferworkshops for information and reservations for transfer information sessions.

The University of California, Santa Cruz, continues to take positive steps to increase the diversity of the student population, including applicants coming from low socioeconomic backgrounds, students with disabilities, current members of the military, military veterans, and non-traditionally aged students. In addition, the campus welcomes students from throughout the U.S. and the world. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy (pregnancy, childbirth, and medical conditions related to childbirth), disability, age, medical condition (cancer-related), ancestry, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, or status as a military veteran or special disabled veteran in admission to or participation in its programs, activities, or services.

Educational Opportunity Programs at UCSC are designed to encourage students from educationally and/or economically disadvantaged backgrounds to prepare for and enter the university. For a description of these programs, see Educational Opportunity Programs .

Admission by Exception . Special consideration may be given to a limited number of applicants who do not meet the minimum UC requirements. Admission by Exception is granted to a very small percentage of those considered for admission. Such factors as academic accomplishments in light of a person’s life experiences and/or special circumstances, socioeconomic background, special talents and/or achievements, contributions to the community, and the quality of the applicant’s personal statement are taken into consideration when reviewing applicants seeking Admission by Exception.

Graduation rates. The following graduation-rate information is listed in compliance with the 1990 Title I: Federal Right-to-Know Act, Section 103. Fifty-five percent of the students who entered as first-year students in 2008 graduated in four years; 69 percent of those who entered in 2007 graduated in five years; and 74 percent of those who entered in 2006 graduated in six years. In recent years, those who entered as first-year students took an average of 4.2 years to graduate, and students transferring to UCSC as juniors averaged 2.4 years. These graduation rates are well above the national averages.

In accord with the Education Amendments of 1976, Section 493A, more detailed information regarding retention is available on the Institutional Research web site at planning.ucsc.edu/irps/retengrad.asp .

Admission Procedures

The University of California Application for Undergraduate Admission and Scholarships may be accessed through admissions.ucsc.edu .

In addition to the application, the above site includes a wealth of information for prospective UC students about undergraduate education, admission, financial aid, and various topics of interest.

Application Filing Periods

Applications for the fall quarter must be submitted during the month of November. Applications for winter quarter admission are accepted only as enrollment allows. Check the Office of Admissions in mid-June to see whether UCSC is accepting applications for winter quarter. UCSC does not accept applications for spring quarter admission.

Application Fees

The application fee is $70 ($80 for international nonimmigrant applicants) to apply to one campus of the university. For each additional campus you select, you must pay an extra $70 fee ($80 for international nonimmigrant applicants). These fees are subject to change and are not refundable. The online application includes payment instructions.

Fee Waivers

The University of California will waive application fees for up to four campuses for certain students who otherwise would be unable to apply for admission. To qualify for the fee waiver, you must meet specific requirements related to your family income and size. The fee waiver is for U.S. citizens and permanent residents only.

Students who qualify for fee waivers and who select more than four campuses must pay $70 for each additional choice. Methods of obtaining fee waivers are listed below.

An online fee waiver form is available to applicants when they apply. The application automatically determines if you are eligible for the fee waiver as soon as it is complete.

High school students: Use the College Board fee waiver. It is available from your school counselor.

EOPS community college students: If you are enrolled in Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) at a California community college, obtain a fee waiver authorization from the EOPS Office.

Admission as a Freshman

The university considers you a freshman applicant if you have graduated from high school and have not enrolled in a regular session at any college or university. If you attend a summer session immediately after graduating from high school, you are still a freshman applicant.

The admission and selection process to UC Santa Cruz reflects the academic rigor and preparation needed for admission to a major research institution. Meeting the minimum qualifications for the university does not guarantee you admission as a freshman. Students are encouraged to achieve well beyond the minimum qualifications to enhance their chances for selection.

UC Santa Cruz uses a holistic approach in selecting freshmen for admission. Applicants are thoroughly reviewed to determine the full spectrum of their academic and personal achievements, viewed in the context of their academic and personal opportunities. UCSC uses 14 faculty-approved criteria to determine an individualized, single score for each applicant.

Information regarding the admission and selection process for UC Santa Cruz can be accessed at admissions.ucsc.edu . This site provides information on the minimum qualifications for the University of California for both residents and nonresidents of California, including international students (see also Admission of Students from Outside California and Admission of International Students ).

High School Preparation for University Work

Carefully planned high school course work provides you with the best preparation for your undergraduate university studies, and allows for advanced preparation for your chosen field of study. Most important, students who master certain basic knowledge and skills in high school substantially increase their chances of success at the university. (Requirements for transfer students are explained in the Admission as a Transfer Student section.)

The basic foundation of UC qualifications is the completion of college preparatory courses required for admission (see “a–g” Subject Requirement below). However, you should take courses beyond the minimum levels in reading, writing, and mathematics in order to be adequately prepared for basic university courses that you may be expected to take freshman year.

A well-prepared student will have mastered the equivalent of four years of English composition and literature with a focus on expository writing; four years of mathematics, including a precalculus course in the senior year; two to three years of a language other than English; two to three years of laboratory science; two or more years of history and social sciences; and one or more years of visual or performing arts.

You should also give careful thought to the general field of study, and perhaps the specific major, you want to pursue at the university. By making this decision in advance, you can plan to take additional courses in high school related to the field.

Reading. University students must be able to read and understand scholarly publications, analyze what they read, and question themselves about an author’s intentions, viewpoint, arguments, and conclusions. You should read commentaries and essays as well as textbooks, and a wide variety of other material—including literature, biography, nonfiction, and criticism—in addition to what you are required to read in class.

Writing. You must learn to write clearly and skillfully in English and to think critically and analyze what you learn in class and in your reading, so that you can present your ideas in a clear and persuasive manner.

University students proficient in composition must be able to understand the assigned topic, select and develop a theme by argument and example, use words and sentences that clearly and precisely express what they mean, demonstrate an understanding of the rules of standard English, and punctuate and spell correctly.

Mathematics. A number of fields of study require preparation in mathematics beyond the three years necessary for admission to UCSC. All majors in engineering and the physical, mathematical, and life sciences include courses in calculus, as do programs leading to professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, optometry, and pharmacy. Moreover, many majors in the social sciences, business, and economics require statistics and/or calculus.

The recommended four years of high school mathematics should include basic operations with numerical and algebraic functions; operations with exponents and radicals; linear equations and inequalities; polynomials and polynomial equations; functions and their graphs; trigonometry, logarithms, and exponential functions; and applications and word problems.

Senior-Year (12th-Grade) Program. The senior year should be used to prepare you for your first year at the university and should include honors and advanced courses, as well as courses that will strengthen overall preparation. A challenging, successfully completed senior-year program is a natural bridge between high school and university course work in the intended major. A strong senior program can enhance your chances for admission to UC Santa Cruz.

High School Proficiency Examination

While the University of California expects all freshman applicants to have graduated from high school, in lieu of the regular high school diploma, the university will accept the following:

Certificate of Proficiency, awarded by the State Board of Education upon successful completion of the California High School Proficiency Examination

General Educational Development (GED) Certificate

Proficiency tests from other states and other countries

Transfer Credit

Transfer credit may be granted to a freshman applicant for acceptable college courses taken while still in high school if an official transcript is received from the college where the course work was completed.

Transfer credit is granted for specified College Board Advanced Placement Examinations completed with a score of 3, 4, or 5 and for specified International Baccalaureate Higher Level Exams completed with a score of 5, 6, or 7. A score of 30 or higher on the International Baccalaureate Diploma is also awarded transfer credit.

Transfer credit is granted for specified GCE and Hong Kong A-Level Examinations.

Students should be advised that college courses taken before or after attending UCSC may duplicate AP, IB, and/or A-Level Examinations. Additionally, exams may duplicate each other (for example, an AP or IB exam in the same subject area). If the student does duplicate an exam with another exam of the same subject content, and/or an exam with a college course, UCSC awards credit only once.

Admission as a Transfer Student

The University of California defines a transfer applicant as a student who has been a registered student in a college or university, or in college-level extension classes following high school graduation. Summer session attended immediately following high school graduation is excluded in this determination. If you are a transfer applicant, you cannot disregard your college record and apply for admission as a freshman.

The admission and selection process for transfers to UC Santa Cruz reflects the academic rigor and preparation needed for admission to a major research institution. Meeting the minimum qualifications for the university does not guarantee you admission as a transfer student. It is expected that students will have completed the lower-division courses required by their intended major prior to transfer.

Transfer applicants are thoroughly reviewed to determine their full spectrum of academic and personal achievements, including transfer course work completed for their intended major. UCSC uses faculty-approved criteria to determine which transfer students will be selected for admission. UC Santa Cruz gives the highest priority to junior-level transfer students coming from California community colleges.

Information regarding the admission and selection process for UC Santa Cruz can be accessed at admissions.ucsc.edu . This site provides information on the minimum qualifications for the University of California for students in California, in other states, and outside the U.S.

UC Santa Cruz Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) Program

UC Santa Cruz's TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee) Program is designed for California community college transfer students at the junior level. The benefits of participating in UCSC TAG include early review of academic records, notification that admission to UCSC is guaranteed (subject to the conditions of the program), opportunities for advising about major preparation and general education and/or Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) requirements, informational mailings, and invitations to events. All California community colleges participate in the UC Santa Cruz TAG program.

The UC TAG application must be submitted online between Sept. 1 and Sept. 30, 2013, for fall 2014 consideration. UCSC accepts transfer admission agreements for fall quarter only.

Further information may be found at admissions.ucsc.edu/apply/transfer-students/tag.html .

Credit for Courses Taken Elsewhere

The university gives unit credit to transfer students for courses they have completed at other accredited colleges and universities, including courses taken at recognized institutions outside of the U.S. To be accepted for credit, your courses must be comparable to those offered at the university, as determined by the UC Santa Cruz Admissions Office. The UC Santa Cruz department sponsoring your major decides which transfer courses may be used to satisfy major requirements.

A total of 70 semester units (105 quarter units) of lower-division credit toward a university degree may be earned at other colleges/universities. Only subject credit will be granted for courses taken in excess of that cap. Please note that credit from another University of California campus is exempt from this limitation.

Applicants will not be considered for admission if they have completed 90 semester units (135 quarter units) or more of UC–transferable upper-division and lower-division combined credit. If students have earned all of their credits as lower-division credits, they are not affected by this limit. All course work completed at California community colleges is considered lower division. Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate Higher Level (IBH) credit is permitted to exceed the 90 semester unit maximum by the number of AP or IBH units granted.

Opportunities to take courses at UC Santa Cruz as a nonmatriculated student are available through Summer Session, Open Campus/Concurrent Enrollment through UC Extension, and Intersegmental Cross-Enrollment.

UC Santa Cruz Transfer Services

The Office of Admissions provides information to all students who wish to transfer to UC Santa Cruz. For prospective transfer students and their families, the Office of Admissions offers Transfer Information Sessions. Transfer Information Sessions are small-group meetings in which an Admissions adviser presents information about transfer admissions matters and transfer-related student services. Please note that pre-evaluations of transcripts are not available as part of the sessions. These sessions are designed for students who have not yet applied to UCSC. Students and their families may make reservations at admissions.ucsc.edu/transferworkshops .

Student-led guided tours take place year-round and also require advance reservations. Please see admissions.ucsc.edu/campustours to make a reservation.

In addition, UCSC Admissions counselors visit many community colleges in California. Check with your counseling department or transfer center to determine whether a UCSC counselor will be visiting your community college.

Admission of U.S. Students from Outside California

UCSC welcomes students from across the U.S. and all parts of the world to enhance our vibrant campus community. Out-of-state applicants must meet the same admission qualifications as California students, but with a higher GPA. Detailed information is provided at admissions.ucsc.edu/apply/out-of-state-students/index.html . Information for all nine general campuses of the University of California can be viewed at www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/ .

Students who are not California residents are assessed nonresident tuition in addition to educational and registration fees. Residency for fee purposes is determined after admission based on documentation provided in a Statement of Legal Residency: registrar.ucsc.edu/fees/residency .

Admission of International Students

The University of California welcomes applications from international students. The academic credentials of applicants from other countries are evaluated by Admissions specialists in accordance with UC faculty-approved regulations governing admission.

UC Santa Cruz accepts applications from international students for the fall quarter, and students should begin application inquiries a year before the quarter of desired admission. Openings for the winter quarter may be limited. If you are interested in applying for winter, check with the Office of Admissions. For information, write to [email protected] or the Office of Admissions, University of California, Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064.

If your native language is not English, you must certify proficiency in English by one of the following methods: earning a score of 80 or higher on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (a minimum score of 550 on the paper-based TOEFL), or earning a minimum score of 7.0 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, earning a score of 560 or higher on the Writing section of the SAT Assessment test, or completing two transferable English composition courses with grades of B or higher in a U.S. college or university.

A financial certificate and official academic records will be required if you are admitted to the university. Generally, nonimmigrant students must provide documentation that sufficient funds will be available to cover nonresident tuition, educational fees, and living expenses. The university does not offer need-based financial assistance to international students.

For more information about undergraduate international admissions, please see admissions.ucsc.edu/apply/international-students/index.html .

For information about services for international students, see the International Education Office at ieo.ucsc.edu/intl-students/index.html .

Readmission

If you are an undergraduate who wants to return to UC Santa Cruz after an absence of a portion of a quarter or more, you must file an Application for Readmission. The application form is available online at advising.ucsc.edu/student/read . The completed application should be filed, along with the nonrefundable $70 application fee, with the Office of Admissions during the appropriate period:

If during your absence you attended another UC campus, an official transcript must be submitted to the Office of Admissions before your application will be sent to your college for approval. If you attended another collegiate institution, your UC Santa Cruz college may require a transcript. If you left for health reasons, clearance from the Cowell Student Health Center is required. You must pay all outstanding bills owed to the university before you will be permitted to register.

Admission to Special Categories

For information on applying for admission in the categories described below, please contact the Office of Admissions at [email protected] .

Second Bachelor’s Degree

If your educational goals have changed substantially since receiving your bachelor's degree, you may be eligible to pursue a second undergraduate degree at UCSC. Applications from students interested in pursuing a second baccalaureate program will be considered as campus enrollment allows. Priority is given to applicants who have not yet had the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree.

You must meet regular university admission qualifications, and your experience or previous scholarship record must show potential for academic success in your proposed area of study. Additional selection criteria will be applied, and admission is subject to approval by the appropriate department.

For a second degree, you must fulfill major and residence requirements, as well as system-wide requirements in American History and Institutions and the Entry Level Writing Requirement . You must enroll for at least three quarters and are usually restricted to six quarters total.

Limited Status

If you have already completed an undergraduate degree and you have a particular reason to take specific undergraduate university classes, you may be eligible to enroll in a nondegree program as a limited-status student. Applications from students interested in limited-status enrollment are permitted as campus enrollment allows. Priority is given to applicants who have not yet had the opportunity to complete a bachelor's degree.

Your proposed program of study must either prepare you for graduate or professional school or satisfy some definite educational need or interest. Participants generally enroll full-time for a specified period that does not exceed three quarters. You must meet regular university admission qualifications, and your experience or previous academic record must show potential for success in your proposed program. Additional selection criteria will be applied, and admission is subject to approval by the appropriate department.

Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action Policies

The University of California, in accordance with applicable federal and state law and university policy, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, medical condition (cancer related or genetic characteristics), ancestry, marital status, age, sexual orientation, citizenship, or service in the uniformed services. The University also prohibits sexual harassment. This nondiscrimination policy covers admission, access, and treatment in University programs and activities. University policy also prohibits retaliation for bringing a complaint of discrimination or participating a complaint process or investigation pursuant to this policy.

Inquiries regarding the University’s student-related nondiscrimination policies may be directed to Student Judicial Affairs, (831) 459-1738, or e-mail [email protected] .

Inquiries regarding the University's affirmative action, equal employment opportunity, and nondiscrimination policies as they relate to student employment may be directed to the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, (831) 459-3676 or e-mail [email protected] .

Inquiries regarding UCSC's Policy on Sexual Assault, the UC Policy on Sexual Harassment and Procedures for Reports of Sexual Assault(s) and Sexual Harassment and/or violations of Title IX may be directed to Title IX Coordinator/Sexual Harassment Officer, (831) 459-2462, or e-mail [email protected] .

Student inquiries regarding disability or disability accommodations may be addressed to the Director, Disability Resource Center, (831) 459-2089; or e-mail [email protected] .

Students with disabilities unable to resolve accommodation or discrimination concerns may contact the campus ADA Compliance Officer by phone, (831) 459-4380, or e-mail [email protected] .

For additional information about University policies related to nondiscrimination and affirmative action, see the Nondiscrimination Policies section of the catalog.

[top of page]

Revised 09/01/13

• Archive of Previous Years' General Catalogs
• 2019-20 UCSC General Catalog
• 2018-19 UCSC General Catalog
• UCSC 2017-18 General Catalog
• UCSC 2016-17 General Catalog
• UCSC 2015-16 General Catalog
• UCSC 2014-15 General Catalog
• Chancellor's Welcome
• Fields of Study
• Undergraduate Expenses
• Undergraduate Academic Program
• Graduate Studies
• Resources for Learning and Research
• Campus Life
• Programs and Courses
• Teaching and Administrative Staff
• Nondiscrimination Statement
• 2012-13 General Catalog
• 2011-12 General Catalog
• 2010-11 General Catalog
• 2009-10 General Catalog
• 2008-09 General Catalog
• 2007-08 UCSC General Catalog
• 2006-07 UCSC General Catalog
• 2005-06 UCSC General Catalog
• Search the Catalog
• Report an accessibility barrier
• Land Acknowledgment
• Accreditation

Last modified: April 7, 2014 128.114.113.87

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation

Arboretum & Botanic Garden

• What's Blooming
• Hours and Admissions
• Gardens and Collections
• Map of the Arboretum
• Exploring Our Gardens
• Birding at the Arboretum
• Meet the Staff
• Support the Garden
• Become a Member
• Dedicate a Tribute Bench

Home / Visit / Hours and Admission

• Hours and Admission

Garden Etiquette

Please help us maintain the peaceful atmosphere  people have come to enjoy. For fire safety and the health of other visitors, there is no smoking .

To protect our collection, endangered species, and educational materials : There is no collecting of any plant or animal material of any kind dead or alive. This also means no collecting of any seeds or cuttings. We are required to mention that collecting tadpoles, harassing or touching the federally protected red-legged frogs is against federal law. Adult supervision of children is required. Take only notes (not labels or flowers), leave only footprints.

For your safety:  Please stay on concrete or dirt paths to avoid poison oak, spines, uneven footing and to avoid compacting the soil over tender roots or trampling small plants. Mountain lion sightings are extremely rare, but read the signs about how to stay safe.

No Pets - UCSC  does not allow dogs on campus , which includes the Arboretum.

Help protect our rare plant collections by staying on paths , supervising children , and leaving pets at home .

Hours  

OPEN DAILY - 9am - 5pm

OPEN Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 4pm

• CLOSURE DATES for 2024: July 4, Nov. 28 & 29, Dec. 24 through Jan. 2, 2025

Admission 

• $10 adults                                            
• $8 seniors 65+
• $5 youth 4-17
• free to kids under 4

How to PAY:

• pay online at shopucscarboretum.com
• Pay with cash or checks payable to UC Regents & deposit into brown  PAY HERE Tubes in Visitor Parking
• Pay at gift shop during the shop's OPEN hours

 Enjoy Free Admission if you are:

• A Current Arboretum Member (with membership card)
• A current UCSC student 
• A member of participating AHS/ROAM/NARM Reciprocal Admission Program Garden or Museum with card + ID
• Those ONLY shopping or picking up an online order at  Norrie's Gift & Garden Shop
• Everyone on Community Day - all day, the first Tuesday of each month 

Group Visits:

Visiting with a school class or a larger group?

Please make a reservation by emailing [email protected] . Include your name, contact information, preferred date(s) to visit, number of people, preferred times and mode of transportation. Currently, we do not offer a group discount. 

Accessibility, Tours, Pets:

• No Pets allowed 
• Many of our pathways & trails are wheelchair, stroller & walker accessible. See map
• See available Tours and Self-Guided Tour resourses here
• If you wish to visit our small botanical library, please inquire with the office. 

Health & Well-being

To continue to protect others and yourself, please:

• If you are sick, stay home
• Out of courtesy, maintain 3-6 feet of space whenever possible  
• Bring your own drinking water  (recommended though we do have 2 drinking fountains)
• Practice good hygiene at all times
• Report an accessibility barrier
• Land Acknowledgment
• Accreditation

Last modified: April 24, 2024 128.114.113.87

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation

Undergraduate Admissions

Group Tour - Counselor Registration

Reservations for a group tour must be requested at least one month in advance and are subject to availability of student guides. Submitting a request does not guarantee your group tour on the requested date. Our team will contact you directly so please make sure your contact information is for someone we can reach by phone and email . We offer group tours to high schools, community colleges and other groups that work with prospective students. Group sizes can range from 6 to a maximum of 60 guests (including chaperones). We require 1 adult chaperone for every 15 students and the chaperone is required to stay with the group for the entire duration of the tour. 

Our group tour is generally 90 minutes and covers approximately 1.5 miles over hilly terrain and many stairs. If any guests in your group have temporary or long-term mobility issues or require other accommodations, please let us know when making your request for a reservation.

PLEASE NOTE: 

• Group tours are not offered during finals weeks, school breaks and holidays. See UCSC Key Dates for more information.
• During the month of April campus tours are prioritized for Admitted Students and their guests. Group tours will not be offered April 3-21, 2023.
• Our campus tours are a completely outdoor experience (no classroom or student housing interiors).
• Dining halls are not serving group tour meals until further notice. 
• Group tours for elementary and middle school groups are not available at this time.

We look forward to your visit!

• Accreditation
• Non-Discrimination Policy
• Privacy Policy & Terms of Use
• Sexual Violence Prevention & Response

Our voices will define the century

Campus Life

Banana slugs thrive in the redwoods.

At UC Santa Cruz, you can find your passion, get involved, and make a difference—and friends. Our vibrant campus includes 10 residential colleges, more than 150 student organizations, campus events, and much more.

A guide to Banana Slug life

Learning Chart your path to discovery

Student Success

UC Santa Cruz takes a holistic approach to student success, ensuring students have access to financial and mental health support, secure sources of housing and food, and connections that spark their social mobility. 

Our Resource Centers help students to feel affirmed in their diverse and intersecting identities, empower them in their academic success, and help them graduate with a sense of belonging to UCSC.

Organizations

Our vibrant student organizations create communities, events, performances, publications, and productions, offering real-world experiences to build leadership values and skills. 

Global Learning

Study abroad or study away. Whether you learn Italian in Italy, take major courses in Argentina, or participate in an internship in Washington, D.C., Global Learning will lead to new friendships, perspectives, and knowledge.

Lifestyle A home away from home

Residential colleges

UC Santa Cruz undergraduates become part of one of 10 colleges, vibrant living-and-learning neighborhoods where your Slug fam hangs out.

Everything you need to know about living in an on-campus community or off campus in the Santa Cruz area.

UC Santa Cruz Dining is all about nourishing the campus community. No matter your palate, you can find it among the five campus dining halls and numerous cafés, coffee shops, and restaurants.

Health resources

UC Santa Cruz is proud of making our campus a supportive, safe place for you to learn, grow, and thrive. 

Fun There’s more to college than studying 😉

Yes, UC Santa Cruz has Greek-Letter organizations! These associations promote academic achievement, strengthen leadership skills, and encourage service.

Give back. The UCSC Student Volunteer Center provides meaningful volunteer opportunities while connecting local organizations with passionate and engaged students.

Beautiful Santa Cruz

With its laid-back Surf City atmosphere, Santa Cruz is known for its scenic beaches, redwood forests, and lively cultural scene. Its diverse geography offers outdoor adventures galore, from mountain biking to surfing. Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area are within a short drive.

Sammy the Slug

The UC Santa Cruz mascot Sammy the Slug, representing the slimy yellow creature that makes its home in the damp redwood forests of campus, has slithered into pop culture—and hearts around the world.

Compete with one of UC Santa Cruz’s NCAA Division III teams or cheer on the fightin’ Banana Slugs from the stands in sports from basketball to tennis. 

Learn to surf, play competitive dodgeball, or find a personal trainer. Get fit with a multitude of recreation classes and programs.

Arts and culture

From opera to digital arts, expressive creativity flourishes on campus. Design your own project, find a community of creators, or simply enrich your life with the diverse offerings of the arts scene.

Campus art galleries

campus theaters

Quarry Amphitheater

Special events

Additional information

Address and phone

Principles of Community

UC + Santa Cruz. Better together

Crime awareness and campus security

Long-Range Development Plan

What are you looking for?

Top Resources

Begin your journey.

Choose the type of student you are to learn more about the application process.

Parking for Your Tour

__________________________________________________________________________ PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

Here is a quick menu of parking and transportation options to help you make the best choice for your visit.

Ride share service

Proceed directly onto campus and request drop-off at Quarry Plaza.

Public transportation: Metro bus or campus shuttle service

Those arriving by Metro bus or campus shuttle should use the Cowell College (uphill) or bookstore (downhill) bus stops.

Visitor Parking Permits

Visitors may purchase a temporary one-day permit for $10 from parking attendants at Hahn Lot 101 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Hourly parking with ParkMobile

To most easily facilitate your hourly parking needs on campus, register for a ParkMobile account on your smartphone. You can download the app or access it using your browser. Those who prefer may call (877) 727-5718 to pay by phone. Cell service can be unreliable in some locations, so please set up your ParkMobile account before arriving on campus.

ACCESSIBILITY PARKING

UC Santa Cruz has two types of parking spaces for those who have disability-related parking needs: standard and van-accessible disabled (or ADA) parking spaces, which are outlined in blue stripes and have a loading zone next to them, and Medical spaces. Medical spaces are standard-sized parking spaces and are intended for those who need close-in parking due to a temporary medical condition, but who don’t require the extra space provided by ADA parking spaces.

Tour guests needing mobility accommodations as outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) should email [email protected] or call 831-459-4118 at least five business days in advance of their scheduled tour.

Note: Visitors with DMV placards or plates may park for free in DMV spaces, Medical spaces, or mobile pay spaces without additional payment, or in time zones (e.g., 10-, 15-, or 20-minute spaces) for longer than the posted time. DMV placards are not valid in spaces reserved for departments, individuals, contractors, carpools or vanpools, or in lots solely designated for “C” permit holders.