Frequently Asked Questions

What is the "quarter system?"

A quarter is a 10-week term; the UCLA academic year is divided into three academic quarters: fall, winter and spring. Summer is also considered a “quarter,” but is not part of the academic year, and is not mandatory. There are 146 days of instruction in an academic year.

Students may enroll up to 19 units per quarter, which typically translates to three or four courses per quarter. Three classes per quarter is recommended for incoming freshmen so they can acclimate to the rigor of the quarter system.

Learn more here.

How large are classes at UCLA?

Classes at UCLA vary in size. U.S. News & World Report recently reported UCLA’s student-faculty ratio as 20:1. They also shared that 47% of classes at UCLA have fewer than 20 students. Many lower division and introductory classes will be larger, while discussion classes and upper division courses will have fewer students.

Learn more here.

If my student is undeclared, how can they choose a major? What are the most common majors?

Choosing a major is one of the most important decisions a student will make at UCLA, but it can take a bit of time to make the best decision given there are over 125 majors to choose from. In fact, the average Bruin changes their major 2.5 times!

An undeclared student is by no means disadvantaged as a UCLA student. However, by the end of their second year these students should generally be aware of what major they would like to declare. Students can identify what majors they are interested in by exploring classes and academic areas of interest, speaking to academic counselors, and using resources like the Career Center and the Alumni Career Engagement office. Students are much more likely to succeed when they study subjects they are interested in.

Learn more here.

How do students declare a major or pursue a double major?

Students can declare a major or pursue a double major through their college or school’s academic advising office. Students must meet with their department academic counselor to review requirements, ensure they have completed the necessary prerequisites, and discuss their academic goals. To declare a single major, students submit a Declaration of Major form through their college or school. For a double major, students must meet the requirements for both majors and submit the appropriate forms for each, often with approval from both departments. Advisors provide guidance throughout the process to help students plan coursework, stay on track for graduation, and make informed decisions about their academic path.

Learn more here.

How can students enroll in required classes if they are full?

A department may offer a wait list if a class becomes full. Being on a wait list does not guarantee enrollment, but can improve a student’s chance of enrollment if another student drops the class.

If a student in the class with a wait list drops, a seat opens up and is filled by a student on the wait list. If a student decides not to take the class, it is up to the student to drop the class before the official study-list deadline.

A wait list position within 10 percent of enrollment capacity (for example, number five for a class of 50) indicates a good chance of being enrolled. Many students drop a class after the first meeting, at which point other students may enroll in the class or advance on the wait list. Additionally, sometimes departments increase the class enrollment capacity, which automatically enrolls additional students from the wait list.

Students should not assume they will be added to a class. They may move backward on a wait list if a class is over-enrolled through the use of PTE numbers, which override wait list status.

Wait lists are maintained through Friday of the second week of classes unless a department deletes them earlier. This may happen on the first day of classes for some sections, especially laboratories.

Learn more here.

What is a Petition to Enroll (PTE) Number?

Most class restrictions are related to class level or major. Restrictions are noted in class information in MyUCLA and the Schedule of Classes. Students can confirm their class level and their major or minor under Registration Status in MyUCLA.

Students may enroll in a restricted class if they get a five-digit Petition to Enroll (PTE) number. A PTE number is issued at the discretion of the instructor or department offering the class. When used with the nine-digit course ID, it guarantees enrollment. Students may inquire at the respective departmental office regarding internal department procedures for receiving a PTE number.

PTE numbers may be issued in the following cases:

• The department or instructor offering the class may authorize selective enrollment if the enrollment capacity is filled. This is at the instructor’s discretion and may only be approved based on criteria established by the instructor and/or department.
• The department or instructor makes an exception to published restrictions (e.g., specified majors or minors; class levels such as freshmen only, or juniors or above).
• The department or instructor overrides a closed class wait list and issues a PTE number so a student can enroll.

If the instructor assigns a PTE number electronically, a notice appears in MyUCLA, and students can enroll in the class using the link in the notice. If the PTE is assigned manually, students use the nine-digit course ID and PTE number to enroll. A PTE is valid through the last day to add a class on MyUCLA.

Learn more here.

When are enrollment appointment times released?

At the UCLA Registrar’s Office, enrollment appointment times for class registration are released on MyUCLA shortly after the Schedule of Classes becomes available for the upcoming term. Students can view their exact appointment date and time in the MyUCLA Class Planner under the “Enrollment Appointments” section.

Each student receives two enrollment appointments—First Pass and Second Pass—and some students with priority status may receive an earlier Priority Pass. Appointment times are assigned based on factors such as the number of completed units and priority status.

Learn more here.

My student is having trouble registering for classes at UCLA. What should I do?

Your student should first confirm they are enrolling during their correct enrollment pass, as students are unable to enroll outside of their designated enrollment time. Students should also check for any holds on their account, such as unpaid fees or incomplete requirements, which can prevent enrollment until resolved. In some cases, courses may have prerequisites or be restricted to certain majors. If issues persist your student can reach out to their academic counseling unit or the Registrar’s Office at reginfo@registrar.ucla.edu.

How are AP classes accounted for at UCLA?

UCLA awards college credit for AP exams with scores of three or higher. The specific credit students receive depends on the college/school their major belongs to.

For majors in the UCLA College, credit awarded by UCLA as a result of AP exams is subject to change without notice. Course descriptions for each AP subject are reviewed by UCLA on a yearly basis. AP exams, IB exams and college courses taken before or after enrolling at UCLA may be duplicative and in those cases, UCLA will award credit for only one. AP units may be applied toward graduation and they won’t count against the allowable unit maximum for the Bachelor's degree. AP credit does not satisfy General Education requirements.

Learn more:

• UC AP Credit
• AP Credit in the College

How do students access academic advising?

Academic counseling can help students determine how to fulfill requirements, create degree objectives, or decide on a major. New students receive academic counseling during orientation, and current students can schedule appointments for one-on-one advising, attend drop-in hours, or connect via email or online portals. Here are the various College and school advising offices:

• Colleges of Letters and Science
  • Academic Advancement Program (AAP)
  • Center for Academic Advising in the College (CAAC)
  • Honors Program
  • Student Athletics Academic and Student Services
• School of the Arts and Architecture
• School of Education and Information Studies
• Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science
• Herb Alpert School of Music
• School of Nursing
• Meyer and Renee Luskin School of Public Affairs
• Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health
• School of Theater, Film, and Television

To contact a departmental adviser, see the individual department.

Learn more here.

What tutoring or academic support resources are available?

Workshops and tutoring services for UCLA students are offered all over campus. Attending workshops and taking advantage of free tutoring will help students to make better use of their time and help boost their GPA. Some opportunities include:

• Library Workshops: UCLA Library research workshops teach relevant skills and encourage critical thinking about the research process.
• AAP Peer Learning: Academic Advancement Program (AAP) offers tutoring to AAP students in many popular courses.
• UCLA Undergraduate Writing Center: Students can get help with their paper assignments through individualized consultations at any point in the writing process. Peer learning facilitators (PLFs) help students discover, explore, and expand their ideas and suggest different writing strategies.
• American Culture & Conversation Program: The Dashew International Center offers an 8-week American Culture & Conversation (AC&C) Program for international students and scholars.

Learn more:

• Library Guide to Tutoring
• Tutoring resources

How often should students visit their academic adviser(s)?

It is recommended that students meet with an adviser at least once a year to ensure they’re on track. However, visiting an adviser prior to each quarter (ideally before registration for the next quarter begins) may be helpful for students to ensure the classes they’ll be registering for help towards their degree progress. It can be helpful for students to seek academic counseling to catch problems early on and set themselves up for success. By meeting with an adviser, students can gain valuable information about course suggestions, scholarship opportunities and graduate school advice.

Students may also ask general academic questions to advisers on an ongoing basis as needed. The Center for Academic Advising in the College (CAAC) offers Remote Engagement and Advising in the College Hub (REACH), a virtual advising hub that enables students in the College to access academic advising more easily. Through REACH, there are also undergraduate College Academic Counseling Peer Counselors and graduate Counseling Assistants readily available to assist students with advising questions and concerns.

Learn more here.

How should students handle midterm/final conflicts?

Students should not choose classes with the same final examination code, or select classes that have conflicting meeting times or multiple same-day final examinations. If conflicts are unavoidable, students should consult the instructor of each course at the first class meeting to see if it is possible to work out an arrangement.

In the Schedule of Classes, dates and times of out-of-class midterm examinations are published on the class detail screen under class notes. It is the student’s responsibility to know examination times and avoid conflicts with other classes.

Final examination locations are displayed Monday of the ninth week of the term in the Schedule of Classes and in MyUCLA. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure final examination times do not conflict by checking the Schedule of Classes.

Learn more:

• Midterm exam policies
• Final exam policies
• Enrollment appointments

What is Honors?

UCLA offers several types of honors:

• Honors Programs (College Honors) offers a variety of programs for students enrolled in the College of Letters and Science to pursue more academically rigorous and intellectually challenging coursework while completing their degrees. Honors also offers scholarships, specialized Honors counseling, the individual major program and the opportunity to graduate from UCLA with the distinction of “College Honors.”
• Departmental Honors are awarded to students who pursue theses or specialized research projects and are available to those majoring in specific areas of study (departments should be contacted individually for more information). Students usually decide to pursue a thesis during the end of the third year and complete the research and coursework during their final year.
• Latin Honors are awarded at various levels to graduating students who meet certain standards of academic achievement. The levels of honors are summa cum laude, magna cum laude and cum laude.
• Honors Societies, coordinated by the Office of the Dean of Students, provide high-achieving students an opportunity to join service and excellence organizations on campus.

How can I access my student’s grades?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (also known as FERPA) is a United States federal law that protects students’ rights to access and control their educational records.

According to FERPA, college students are considered responsible adults and are allowed to determine who will receive information about them. While parents understandably have an interest in a student’s academic progress, they are not automatically granted access to a student’s records. Parents are encouraged to consult with their student if academic information is needed.

Your student may give permission for a third party to access their records (financial, academic, etc.) by setting up an authorized user account for their parent or family member. UCLA does not provide private information or restricted public information (even with consent) over the phone or by email.

Learn more here.

How do parents and students receive info regarding safety and evacuating campus?

UCLA provides multiple ways for students and parents to receive timely safety information and evacuation instructions. Bruin Alert sends urgent notifications via text, email, and phone in the event of emergencies on or near campus. Students and families can also access safety updates, emergency procedures, and evacuation guidelines through BruinSafe Online, UCLA’s safety information portal. Additionally, the UCLA Police Department (UCPD) and campus officers coordinate with local authorities to provide guidance during emergencies and ensure the campus community stays informed. Families are encouraged to review these resources and make sure their contact information is up to date to receive alerts promptly.

Learn more:

• BruinSafe Online
• Office of Emergency Management

What is Bruin Alert and how do I sign-up?

UCLA uses the BruinALERT emergency notification system to distribute active emergency notifications and public safety alerts to the campus community. BruinALERT emergency notifications may be sent via email, test, or phone calls, and posted to Bruins Safe Online and the Bruins Safe App.

Students and their family members can register for BruinALERT. Please note that students and family members may receive different BruinALERTs based on the severity of the emergency. It is also recommended to download the Bruins Safe App on your mobile device(s) to ensure the most up to date information.

Learn more here.

My student is in need of support due to a recent emergency. What options do they have?

If your student is facing an emergency, UCLA provides several support resources to help them navigate the situation:

• Economic Crisis Response Team: Assists students experiencing financial emergencies and can help connect them to funding and resources.
• Case Management Services: Offers guidance and support for students facing basic needs challenges, including housing, food, and other essential resources.
• Counseling and Psychological Services: Provides counseling, crisis intervention, and referrals to help students cope with emotional or psychological stress.

Families should encourage their student to reach out directly to these services, or contact the offices for guidance on how to support their student during a difficult time.

Are off campus apartments and surrounding neighborhoods safe?

While many off-campus apartments are in safe areas, students are still encouraged to stay aware of their surroundings and follow personal safety practices. The university provides multiple safety resources, including Bruin Alert, which sends emergency notifications via text, email, and phone, and the UCLA Police Department (UCPD), which patrols both campus and nearby neighborhoods. Additionally, Steve Lurie, the Associate Vice Chancellor of The Office of Campus and Community Safety, works closely with campus departments to coordinate safety measures and provide resources for students. The Office of Campus and Community Safety ensures that emergency plans are in place for both on-campus and off-campus areas, helping to maintain a secure environment for all Bruins.

Additionally, higher education institutions are legally required to publish safety reports about their campus through the Jeanne Clery Act. UCLA security and fire safety reports are shared annually and are designed to inform the UCLA community of UCLA’s campus crime statistics, security policies, and steps students can take to maximize their personal safety.

Learn more:

• Office of Campus and Community Safety
• Jeanne Clery Act

How does UCLA handle HIPAA related communication with families?

UCLA follows federal HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations to protect students’ health information. Because of these privacy rules, UCLA cannot share detailed medical information with parents or family members without the student’s written consent. However, the university provides families with guidance on how to support their student, general health and wellness resources, and information about how students can authorize disclosure if they choose. Students may complete a HIPAA release form to allow specific health information to be shared with parents, guardians, or other designated individuals.

Learn more here.

What career resources exist at UCLA for new graduates?

UCLA offers a wide range of career support for new graduates to help them transition from college to the workforce. The UCLA Career Center provides one-on-one career counseling, resume and cover letter review, job search strategies, and interview preparation. Graduates can access job and internship listings, career fairs, networking events, and employer information sessions specifically for Bruins. Additionally, programs and mentoring opportunities to connect graduates with experienced professionals in their fields exist through the UCLA Alumni Association.

What support does UCLA offer for students looking for internships/jobs?

There are a number of helpful resources to assist students in finding internships:

• Handshake: This is a platform that connects Bruins with internships and jobs, as well as Career Center events, fairs, and workshops. Jobs and internship postings from employers looking to hire UCLA students are continuously posted on Handshake.
• UCLA Career Center: The Career Center has a job/internship search page with helpful resources including articles with recent news and job searching advice, tools specific to undergraduates, and career and exploration guides. There are many additional resources through the Career Center that could support your student’s search, including working one on one with Career Center advisors, self-assessments to explore their skills/interests, tips for building their network, resume/cover letter support, and much more.
• UCLA ONE: This platform is a one-stop-shop for professional needs and to connect with UCLA. Created to engage UCLA alumni and students, UCLA ONE serves as a resource for opportunities, events and professional development for Bruins worldwide. UCLA ONE allows students to search for jobs, get connected to mentors, solicit career advice, join Bruin networking groups and more.

My student is looking to network with UCLA alumni. How can they do that?

The UCLA Alumni Association offers many opportunities for students to network with alumni. Here are some examples:

• Alumni Mentor Program: UCLA students are connected with an alumni mentor who helps guide them through career exploration, internship/job searches, and more. The connections made in this program help prepare our students for a successful future and leave a lasting impact on our campus community.
• Bruin Development Academy: This program offers hands-on technical training in specific industries, providing students with practical experience. Students learn and practice soft-skills required to be considered for highly coveted internships or entry-level positions.
• Dinners for 12 Strangers: This annual UCLA tradition bring students and alumni together for informal, community-building dinners that facilitate conversation and connection.
• Student Alumni Association (SAA) programming: SAA is a 100-member student volunteer group working within the UCLA Alumni Association to enhance the student experience and connect the student body with UCLA alumni. They host a variety of events throughout the year, including industry-specific events like Entertainment Networking Night and STEM Networking Night, Interview With a Bruin which offers students the opportunity to participate in mock interviews, and Dinners for 12 Strangers which is an annual UCLA tradition that brings students and alumni together over informal dinners.
• UCLA Epicenter: Connects students with real-world industry projects, enhancing their educational experiences through project-based learning.

Learn more here.

Are there any internship/job fairs at UCLA?

The UCLA Career Center has an events calendar that is consistently updated with all internship/job fairs and other useful workshops and events open for students to attend. Handshake also includes career fairs on campus.

Learn more here.

Bruin Day

My student was just accepted to UCLA. When is Bruin Day and how do we register to attend?

Bruin Day is an annual event designed for newly admitted students and their families to explore UCLA’s campus, meet faculty, staff, and students, and learn more about academic programs, student life, and campus resources. UCLA will email admitted students with information about Bruin Day, including registration instructions and the event schedule. Once registration opens, you can register online. This will allow your student and their family to attend the event and RSVP for various sessions, including academic fairs, student panel discussions, and campus tours.

Learn more here.

How do accepted students commit to attend UCLA?

In order to commit to attend UCLA, students must submit a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) to officially accept their admission offer. The complete process involves:

• Filling out their SIR, Statement of Legal Residence (if required), and Parent/Guardian Contact form.
• Selecting their official UCLA email address.
• Paying a $250.00 registration deposit, if required. This deposit holds their place in the entering class and will be applied toward their registration fees. It’s not refundable if your student changes their mind and decides not to register.

Students can do so via MyUCLA or in person at Bruin Day.

Learn more here.

Orientation

How do students and their families register for orientation?

New Student Orientation is mandatory for all new first-year and transfer undergraduate students. Students must first complete the Pre-Orientation Planner survey (available through MyUCLA after submitting the Statement of Intent to Register). Once the survey is done, students can log into MyUCLA to reserve an orientation session.

Parents and family members register for New Parent & Family Orientation via the Parent & Family Orientation reservation system on the New Student & Transition Programs website. Registration usually begins in the spring.

Learn more:

• First Year Orientation
• Transfer Student Orientation
• International Student Orientation
• Family Orientation

What do parents and families do during orientation, and what is the schedule?

Parents attend New Parent & Family Orientation, a one-day program that welcomes families to UCLA and introduces campus resources; includes presentations from staff and students on academics, campus safety, financial aid, housing, and student life; provides a chance to ask questions and explore campus resources; and often includes lunch and a resource fair. Students attend a separate New Student Orientation (two days for first-years, one day for transfers), focused on their academic advising and course enrollment.

Learn more here.

What if my student cannot make orientation?

If your student would like to request an exception to attend orientation, they can contact the New Student & Transition Programs office at (310) 206-6685, or through the MyUCLA Message Center (with UCLA login or without UCLA login). The only exceptions that will be reviewed are circumstances related to financial assistance, health-related concerns, visa processing, and other extenuating circumstances. They will review all requests in the order they are received, and your student will receive an email from us within 7-10 business days that will detail whether their request was approved or declined.

Learn more here.

Where can families park for orientation?

Families attending orientation can park in the designated visitor campus parking structures. Please refer to the below campus parking maps to find a parking structure convenient to your destination on campus, including accessible parking spaces.

• Campus Parking Map
• Interactive UCLA Campus Map
• UCLA Health System, Westwood Campus Map

Note: Parents and families who register for orientation will likely receive a more detailed email with information about the orientation experience closer to their registered session.

Learn more here.

Why are orientation charges appearing on my student's bill?

There are fees for attending New Student Orientation that cover on-campus housing and meals. The New Student Orientation fee will be billed to students’ UCLA BruinBill. A student’s Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) fee of $250 does not cover the session fee. No payment is due when students make a reservation for orientation. All session fees will be billed in September and are due in October.

Learn more here.

Bruin Family Weekend

When is Bruin Family Weekend, and what is the schedule?

Bruin Family Weekend is a two day event that takes place annually during the fall quarter, typically near the end of October or beginning of November. Dates are usually announced during the Spring and a schedule of events is shared in the fall.

Learn more here.

How do families register for Bruin Family Weekend?

Parents and family members will receive an email notification to register for Bruin Family Weekend in the fall. The email notification includes a registration link specific to that family member. Please contact the Bruin Family Weekend team at bruinfamilyweekend@support.ucla.edu if you did not receive a registration email.

Registration typically closes around 2 weeks before the event takes place. Registration onsite is not permitted.

How do families purchase football tickets to the Bruin Family Weekend game?

The Bruin Family Weekend registration email you’ll receive ahead of the event will include information about purchasing tickets to the football game taking place during Bruin Family Weekend. Folks will have multiple options to purchase tickets alongside their Bruin Family Weekend registration, or they can purchase football tickets separately before they register for the event, if they wish.

Do students need tickets to Bruin Family Weekend?

Students do not require tickets to attend Bruin Family Weekend events and they are welcome to join their family members for various Bruin Family Weekend programming on campus. Students do, however, require a ticket to the football game if they wish to attend.

What should families do if they did not receive the invitation?

The Parent & Family Association will share on social media when Bruin Family Weekend registration begins. Please contact the Bruin Family Weekend team at bruinfamilyweekend@support.ucla.edu if you did not receive a registration email.

Commencement/Graduation

When are commencement ceremonies, and what are the details?

Times and details of commencement ceremonies vary every year, but graduation weekend always happens in mid-June. All available information will be listed on the UCLA Commencement website for each year’s commencement.

Learn more here.

How do students receive tickets to the commencement/departmental ceremonies?

Students can order their College Commencement tickets as well as their departmental ceremony tickets via the Commencement Feature on MyUCLA. A ticket request period typically takes place near the end of April/early May, during which time eligible graduates can indicate their preference of ceremony time (11 a.m., 3 p.m. or 7 p.m.) and request one free graduate ticket and up to four free guest tickets.

For department ceremonies, students can also order up to four free departmental ceremony guest tickets and order additional guest tickets – if they are available – for a charge of $20 per additional guest ticket.

Learn more here.

How can families request extra guest tickets to commencement?

Graduates can request one free graduate ticket and up to four free guest tickets for the College Commencement ceremony. If your student selects the 7 p.m. College Commencement ceremony, there is a chance they will be able to receive a small number of additional free guest tickets for that event through the waitlist. The other two ceremonies (11 a.m. and 3 p.m.) fill up, so additional guest tickets beyond the student’s four free guest tickets will not be available for those events.

For departmental ceremonies, students can request up to four free guest tickets. Additional tickets may be available for a $20 charge per extra guest.

Learn more here.

How do students get their regalia (cap and gown) for graduation?

Students may purchase their regalia (cap and gown) for graduation through the official UCLA Campus Store. The Grad ETC Bachelor Unit includes a degree tassel, cap, and gown.

Learn more here.

Are commencement ceremonies livestreamed?

Yes, the College Commencement ceremonies are typically livestreamed each year. The links to live stream the College Commencement ceremonies will be available at https://commencement.ucla.edu near the time of commencement.

How does parking work for commencement weekend?

All visitors must purchase a valid parking permit to park on campus. UCLA Transportation utilizes the Bruin ePermit System, where your license plate serves as your parking permit. When your license plate is scanned, the system automatically checks against the parking database to verify a valid permit for your parking location.

For Commencement weekend, there are typically different parking structures available for guests to park in and the Commencement website will note which structures are available any given year. If you will be attending ceremonies on multiple dates, you may select multiple dates for parking when purchasing your parking permit. Parking permits cannot be refunded or transferred.

Visitors traveling to campus via car should take note of the following:

• Purchase in Advance: Students and guests attending the Commencement ceremonies can buy parking permits online through the Bruin ePermit Event Parking Portal typically starting May 1. To skip long lines at the self-service pay stations on campus, it is recommended to purchase your parking permit ahead of attending the Commencement ceremonies.
• High Demand: Commencement parking spaces fill up quickly in the parking structures. Vehicles are parked on a first come, first served basis. Plan your commute accordingly and arrive to campus at least 30 minutes before the start of the ceremony you’ll be attending. You may be redirected to an alternate parking area, in which case no additional permit is needed.
• Customer Service Impacts: Phone and email support is typically unavailable on the day of Commencement due to on-site impacts. For self-service support options please visit Ask Transportation.

Learn more here.

How does the housing lottery work?

All newly admitted freshman who submit their housing application by the deadline will be eligible for a guaranteed four consecutive years of housing. Similarly, all newly admitted transfer students who submit their housing application by the deadline will be eligible for a guaranteed two years of housing.

UCLA Housing Room Sign Up (RSU) is an online process that provides eligible returning undergraduate residents the opportunity to select their housing for the next academic year. All eligible students interested in housing for the upcoming academic year must submit their application and participate in RSU in order to receive a housing offer. Students who do not select a room during RSU will not be extended a housing offer. This process typically begins in March each year.

Learn more here.

When and where do new students receive information about move-in?

Students will receive Fall move-in dates, times, and room assignments via email and the UCLA Housing Portal toward the end of August.

Learn more here.

When are move in and move out dates?

Move-in and move-out dates for on-campus housing and University Apartments are determined by UCLA Housing each year. Students are assigned specific move-in days and times through the Housing portal before the start of the academic term. Move-in typically takes place over several days in mid to late September prior to the start of the academic year/fall quarter. If students need to make travel arrangements that differ from their assigned move-in date and time, they can contact the Housing office once they receive their assignment information.

Move-out occurs at the end of the spring quarter, and students are required to vacate their space by 10 p.m. on the designated move-out day.

If a student is unable to move in on their assigned day or move out by the stated deadline, they should contact UCLA Housing in advance to request guidance or discuss possible arrangements.

Learn more here.

Where can families park for move in?

All students moving into on-campus housing are assigned an unloading zone. Students can view their unloading zone via the move-in information on their housing portal. Upon arrival to campus, you'll be directed via signs and staff to your designated unloading zone. True Bruin Ambassadors will help unload and get belongings up to your student’s room and there will also be satellite check-in stations students will be directed to get their BruinCard encoded for their room.

Once you have unloaded your student’s belongings, you will be directed to long term parking. You will have 3 hours of free long term parking. If you need to keep your vehicle parked for longer than 3 hours, please move it to one of the pay-by-spaces available within the lot.

Learn more here.

How are housing assignments determined (room types, singles, transfer/late admit housing)?

Undergraduate housing assignments are made via a randomized priority process that matches student preferences (i.e., room type, lifestyle choices, etc.) submitted in the housing application to available spaces. If your students’ first choice is unavailable, Housing offers the next available space. Roommate matching also uses preferences entered into the application during the selection process.

Room types offered depend on availability and housing demand. Not all applicants are offered singles or certain room types; most are assigned based on the highest preference available within capacity.

Transfer and late-admit students who apply before housing deadlines are included in the same assignment process. Offers are made per availability once Housing receives their complete application and preferences.

Learn more here.

How can my student change rooms/roommates?

UCLA Housing has structured procedures for moving rooms or changing roommates. Undergraduate residents can submit a Change of Assignment Request (CAR) after accepting an offer but before the academic year begins to request a different building, room type, or space. CARs are based on space availability and are not guaranteed. During the year, students may submit room swaps or transfer requests during designated Open Transfer periods via the Housing portal if they wish to change rooms or roommates. Any room or suite changes require proper coordination with housing staff, including Resident Directors (for dorms) or University Apartment administration, before moves occur.

Learn more:

• Change of Assignment Request
• Additional Housing info

How can I send packages to my student if they live on campus?

All on-campus residents receive mail/packages at the Housing Mail Center located in Delta Terrace at Sunset Village. For academic move-in, do not send packages until one (1) week prior to your student’s scheduled move-in day. Students can contact the Housing Mail Center with any inquiries at (310) 206-1767.

Use the following format as the mailing address:

• Student's First & Last Name (as registered at UCLA)
  330 De Neve Drive, Building [X], Room [#]
  Los Angeles, CA 90024

Learn more here.

Is summer housing available?

UCLA offers Summer Session housing for students enrolled in summer programs or courses, via a separate summer application. All eligible students can apply for summer housing, which is typically available on-campus. Students living on campus during the spring term can request a stay through (to remain between academic and summer housing contracts) via the Housing portal if they have an eligible summer contract.

Learn more:

• Summer housing
• Spring to summer staythrough

What resources exist to help students looking for off-campus housing?

Students can access resources for off-campus housing through UCLA Housing’s Community Housing Office, students can access a database of rental listings that includes shared apartments, vacant units, rooms in private homes, studios, and short-term sublets in neighborhoods near campus, and full-time students may search these listings for free.

Learn more here.

Is it possible for students to return to UCLA Housing after moving to sorority/fraternity housing or off-campus housing, and if so, what is the process?

Yes, it is possible for students to return to UCLA housing after living off-campus or in sorority/fraternity housing, but it is not guaranteed. Students must apply for housing again via the housing portal, often joining a waitlist for available spaces and are treated as lottery applicants and offers are made only if space is available.

Learn more here.

What are the different meal plans?

Meal plans are coordinated through UCLA Housing & Dining and include several preset options with varying numbers of meals; all plans typically provide a weekly allotment of meals that students can use at approved dining locations. Meal plans for on-campus residents are usually selected at the time of housing contract acceptance, and requests to upgrade or downgrade can be made via the Housing portal.

Meal Plan Options:

• 19 Premier: Flexible plan with meals that carry over from week to week within the quarter.
• 19 Regular: Fixed meals per week; meals do not carry over week-to-week.
• 14 Premier & 14 Regular: Mid-range meal options with various carry-over rules.
• 11 Premier & 11 Regular: Lower-meal plans for students who eat fewer meals on campus.
• Summer Plans: Typically, a 14-meal plan is offered during summer session housing.

Learn more:

• Academic year meal plans
• Meal plan upgrades/downgrades

What resources exist for parents and families of UCLA undergraduates?

The UCLA Parent and Family Association (PFA) is committed to supporting the families of UCLA undergraduates by providing resources, information, and a sense of community. Our mission is to foster a strong connection between UCLA and its students' families, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and tools to support their student’s success. We offer parents and families a variety of resources including:

• Bruin Family Connect: A quarterly e-newsletter designed to inform parents of university trends, campus resources and their role in supporting their college student.
• Bruin Family Insights: PFA’s very own podcast! This podcast focuses on topics parents and family members want to know the most about and features topic experts that include UCLA staff, faculty, alumni, students, and parents!
• Parent and Family Guide: An in-depth guide containing information on UCLA’s academic services, student life, and campus resources.
• Collegiate Parent Guide: A guide made in partnership with CollegiateParent that provides advice on navigating college life and supporting students through various aspects of university life
• Social media: Parents and families can also stay connected to our office and learn more about the University through the PFA Instagram (@UCLA_Parents) and Facebook page (UCLAParents).
  • Note: There are many unofficial parent Facebook groups and Instagram accounts that are not affiliated with our office. We encourage you to follow our official accounts to ensure you’re receiving the most accurate information.
• Email: Finally, parents and family members can contact our office directly if they have questions or need support. You can contact us at mybruinis@ucla.edu.

Learn more here.

How can I get involved as a parent at UCLA?

There are several ways parents and family members of UCLA undergraduate students can get involved in the Bruin community and stay connected with your student’s experience, including:

• Bruin Family Socials: These regional events are hosted by UCLA parents and family members on a year-round basis through a variety of activities and locations. Providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with one another on a regional level, these Socials foster connections and relationships within the greater Bruin community. All you need to do to sign up to host is determine a venue, date, and time for your event and the Parent & Family Association help with the rest!
• Parents’ Council: The UCLA Parents’ Council is the Parent & Family Association’s premier volunteer organization comprised of family members who serve as ambassadors for the University. Council members engage with current and prospective families to foster connections in support of the University, volunteer their time and talents to the campus community and represent the parent perspective on the UCLA experience. Applications are open each year from mid-April to mid-July.

Learn more here.

How do Bruins get around campus?

Most students walk, bike, or scooter to and from campus, especially if they live on The Hill or in nearby apartments. Additional transportation options around campus include the complimentary BruinBus shuttle service (a year-round bus serving the UCLA campus and Wilshire Center), UCLA SafeRide (on-demand rides in the evening during the academic year), and BruinAccess paratransit service (for students and employees who have permanent or temporary mobility issues). Students may also drive to campus, but parking space availability on campus is extremely limited during the academic year.

How can students purchase parking permits?

Parking space availability on campus is extremely limited, especially during the academic year, and is not guaranteed. While it’s highly encouraged that everyone commuting to campus choose a sustainable mode of transportation, driving may be the only viable option. During the academic year, UCLA Transportation offers commuting students a quarterly Parking Application for permit requests.

During the Summer Session period, space is less impacted and we do not have a Parking Application. Permits are limited and sold to both commuter and dorm students on a first-come, first-serve basis. Students may visit the Bruin ePermit Portal to purchase a Summer Session permit directly.

Note: Starting January 1, 2026, UCLA Transportation may reduce and/or as needed, eliminate student daily parking permits. Student daily permits were introduced in April 2022 to utilize temporary post-pandemic parking capacity. With on-campus demand now back to pre-pandemic levels, and large hybrid work patterns filling weekday spaces, we must return to pre-pandemic space utilization operations. As a result, student daily permits will be limited, may sell out, or may not be available. We encourage students to consider alternatives: Bruin U-Pass or Bruin Grad Pass for public transit, carpool, BruinBus, biking, visitor pay-station parking or visitor parking via ParkMobile. For questions, students can email transportation@ts.ucla.edu or call (310) 794-7433.

Learn more here.

How do students find their way around campus?

UCLA offers a number of campus maps to assist with campus navigation, including maps for buildings, parking, bus routes, accessibility, EV charging stations, bike stations, and more.

Learn more here.

What is the best way to get to the airport from campus?

Bruins can take the Culver CityBus Line 6 or R6 to LAX directly from campus. Here’s how:

• Pick up the Culver CityBus Line 6 or R6 from the southeast corner of Strathmore Place and Westwood Plaza.
• Disembark at the LAX City Bus Center.
• Catch a free LAX Shuttle directly to the terminal.

Students may also consider a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft.

Learn more here.

How do students get involved in clubs and organizations?

UCLA is a mosaic of culture and activity. With more than 1,200 clubs and student organizations, students can find ample opportunities to discover new interests and make friends with like-minded Bruins. This website includes information on how students can get involved across campus, in areas including recreation, student government, arts and culture, business and entrepreneurship, volunteering, and more.

Learn more here.

Where are the best study spaces on campus?

UCLA Residential Life has compiled a list of study spots on campus and on the Hill here. Some student favorites include:

• Charles E. Young Research Library
• James West Alumni Center
• Kerckhoff Coffee House
• Powell Library

How can my student join a fraternity or sorority, and what are their options?

UCLA’s Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL) offers students the opportunity to join over 60 Greek-letter organizations that focus on community service, leadership, academic achievement, and personal growth. Students interested in joining a fraternity or sorority can explore several options:

• Recruitment: Each year, UCLA hosts formal recruitment periods for fraternities and sororities at varying time depending on the council and each chapter’s needs. These events allow students to meet members, learn about the values and activities of different chapters, and determine which organization aligns with their interests and goals.
• Panhellenic Council & Interfraternity Council: The Panhellenic Council (for sororities) and the Interfraternity Council (for fraternities) organize the recruitment process for their respective communities. Students can sign up for recruitment through their respective council’s website. These councils also host events where prospective members can learn more about Greek life at UCLA.
• Cultural and Professional Greek Organizations: In addition to traditional fraternities and sororities, UCLA is home to several multicultural, professional, and interest-based Greek organizations. These groups provide an inclusive and supportive community for students who are passionate about specific cultural backgrounds, academic interests, or career goals.

Learn more here.

What is SOLE (Student Organizations, Leadership & Engagement)?

SOLE is the hub for student involvement at UCLA. It supports students in exploring their passions, connecting with organizations, and building leadership skills. Through SOLE, students can learn about different clubs, access funding opportunities, and attend workshops aimed at improving leadership abilities and organizational skills. The office also coordinates involvement fairs and events throughout the year to help students find the right fit for them.

Learn more here.

Where can I stay when I visit my Bruin at UCLA?

When visiting your Bruin at UCLA, there are several accommodation options. The Inn at UCLA (previously the UCLA Guest House) offers a convenient on-campus stay, with rooms available for families and friends of students, located within walking distance of campus facilities. The UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center is another excellent on-campus choice, offering modern rooms and a conference-style setting. Budget-friendly options include Westwood Inn and The Royal Palace Westwood, which are within walking distance of the campus and offer basic amenities at affordable rates. The W Los Angeles – West Beverly Hills and Hotel Angeleno are both convenient options just a short drive from UCLA, but there are many local accommodations available in Westwood and the surrounding areas.

When can/should I visit my student?

While parent and family visits to campus are always welcome, we encourage you to communicate with your student about how often visits should take place, and allow space for your student to grow their independence while at UCLA. With that said, parents and family members are invited to attend Bruin Family Weekend, which takes place every Fall around the end of October or start of November. Information regarding event registration typically comes out in late summer. Other great opportunities to visit campus include events through organizations your student may be a part of, sporting events, Spring Sing and more!

How can my student or I purchase tickets for UCLA events?

Tickets for many UCLA events (including UCLA athletics, theme parks, museums and more) can be purchased through the Central Ticket Office (CTO). The Central Ticket Office has windows on campus with customer service represented located at 325 Westwood Plaza (ground level, across from Pauley Pavilion), which are open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CTO can also be reached by calling 310-825-2101 during business hours, sending a chat at tickets.ucla.edu or by sending an email to cto@tickets.ucla.edu.

What is the Den Pass?

Every year, students have the opportunity to purchase a Den Pass, which gives them ACCESS to all regular season UCLA Football and Men's Basketball games. First year students can even purchase a 4s Up Pass, the Den Pass for all four years of college, so they don't have to buy one every year. 

Learn more here.

What are fun things to do on campus?

The UCLA campus is full of opportunities for students and family members depending on what they're looking to do! In addition to UCLA athletics and student-sponsored events, here are some of the most popular attractions and events on campus:

• Bruin Family Weekend
• Center for the Art of Performance
• Geffen Playhouse
• Hammer Museum
• Mathias Botanical Garden
• Sculpture Garden
• Spring Sing

Learn more here.

Where can I buy UCLA merchandise?

The UCLA Store in Ackerman Student Union is the official campus store for all UCLA apparel and accessories. The UCLA Store also includes the campus bookstore, school supplies, and the UCLA computer store. All proceeds from the UCLA Store are reinvested back into the UCLA community.

Learn more here.