UCLA Move-In Day for Fall 2025 is scheduled from Wednesday, September 17, to Saturday, September 20, 2025. Move-in takes place over 4 days, before the start of the academic year at UCLA.
UCLA Students will receive specific time slot assignments through the UCLA Housing portal in late August.
Your assigned move-in window lasts 3-4 hours during daylight hours.
To find your UCLA move-in appointment, log into the UCLA Housing portal, where you’ll see your exact date, time, and designated unloading zone.
If you need to change your UCLA move-in time, contact UCLA Housing as early as possible since popular time slots fill quickly. Check out the UCLA Academic Calendar 2025-2026.
Table of Contents
UCLA Move-In Day Packing Checklist
Essential Items to Bring
Bedding and Linens
- Twin XL sheets (36″ x 80″) – required size for UCLA dorm beds
- Pillows and pillowcases
- Towels and washcloths
- Mattress topper for comfort
- Blankets
Electronics and Study Supplies
- Laptop and charger
- Surge protector (required by UCLA Housing)
- Desk lamp
- Power strips
- Phone charger
- Clock
- Extension cords with surge protection
Room Essentials
- Mini refrigerator (one per room maximum)
- Hangers
- Storage bins and organizers
- Laundry basket
- Cleaning supplies
- Trash bags
Personal Care Items
- Toiletries and hygiene products
- Laundry detergent and fabric softener
- Personal medications
- First aid kit
UCLA Dorm Prohibited Items
UCLA Housing prohibits these items for safety and fire prevention:
- Candles and incense
- Halogen lamps
- Freestanding microwaves
- Toasters and toaster ovens
- Coffee makers
- Hot plates and electric skillets
- Space heaters
- Air conditioning units
- Extension cords without surge protection
- Weapons of any kind
- Pets (except fish in tanks up to 10 gallons)
UCLA Move-In Day Arrival Process
Check-In Procedure
- Arrive during your assigned time window specified in the UCLA Housing portal
- Follow the signs to your designated unloading zone in Westwood
- Present your photo ID at the residence hall check-in station
- Receive your room key and building access instructions
- Activate your BruinCard for dining and campus services
UCLA Move-In Day Parking
Free unloading parking is available for approximately 3 hours during your assigned move-in window.
After unloading, vehicles must be moved to designated long-term parking areas, or you can purchase UCLA parking permits from Transportation Services.
Popular unloading zones include areas near major residence halls, such as De Neve, Rieber, and Hedrick. Move-In Assistants are stationed at unloading zones to help direct traffic and assist with heavy items.
UCLA Housing Move-In Tips
Before Move-In Day
Coordinate with Your Roommate
- Exchange contact information through the UCLA Housing portal
- Discuss shared items like refrigerators and microwaves to avoid duplicates
- Plan arrival times if possible
Prepare Important Documents
- Photo identification
- BruinCard pickup instructions
- Housing assignment confirmation
- Health insurance information
On Move-In Day
Pack Strategically
- Label boxes clearly by contents and room area
- Pack a survival kit with snacks, water, a phone charger, and a change of clothes
- Keep essential items easily accessible
Get Help When Needed
- Move-In Assistants are available at the unloading zones
- Housing staff maintain extended hours during move-in week
- True Bruin Ambassadors can answer questions about campus
UCLA Meal Plan Activation
Your UCLA meal plan typically activates for dinner service on your move-in day. The main dining halls include De Neve, Covel, Feast, and Bruin Plate.
Download the UCLA dining app to check meal hours, view menus, and track your meal plan usage.
New students often receive several free meal swipes during their first few days to help with the transition before regular meal plan billing begins.
UCLA Move-In Day Transportation
Driving to UCLA
If driving to UCLA for move-in, plan extra time for Westwood traffic during move-in week. Use UCLA campus maps to locate your specific residence hall and unloading zone. Popular routes include Sunset Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard, depending on your origin.
Alternative Transportation
- Rideshare services: Specify your residence hall’s unloading zone as your destination
- Public transit: Metro and bus lines serve the UCLA area with stops in Westwood
- Shuttle services: Available from LAX airport to the UCLA area
UCLA Housing Resources and Support
Technical Support
- UCLA Wi-Fi setup instructions are provided in each dorm room
- IT support services help with technology issues during move-in week
- Housing Helpdesk maintains extended hours for move-in questions
Health and Safety
- Student Health Center services are available from day one
- Campus police provide safety information and emergency procedures
- Resident Advisors review safety protocols during floor meetings
Orientation and Community
- Bruin Bash and orientation events are scheduled around move-in week
- Student groups begin recruiting during the move-in period
- Floor activities help new students meet neighbors and build community
UCLA Move-In Day Success Tips
Organization Strategies
- Create a detailed packing list weeks before move-in
- Pack room essentials separately from personal items
- Take photos of any existing room damage and report to staff within 24 hours
Making the Most of Move-In
- Attend floor meetings and orientation activities
- Exchange contact information with floor neighbors
- Explore dining halls and campus resources during your first week
- Join student forums and UCLA communities for ongoing support
Common Move-In Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting Twin XL bedding
- Bringing prohibited items that must be removed
- Arriving outside your assigned time window
- Not coordinating shared items with roommates
- Overpacking small dorm spaces
UCLA Move-In Day marks the beginning of your college experience at one of California’s premier universities.
Proper preparation using this checklist and timeline will help ensure a smooth transition to campus life and academic success at UCLA.
UCLA Move-In Day FAQ
What time should I arrive for UCLA move-in?
Arrive within your assigned time window as specified in the UCLA Housing portal. Arriving more than 30 minutes early may require waiting.
Can I change my UCLA move-in appointment?
Yes, you can request changes through the housing portal if alternative slots are available. Contact UCLA Housing early, as popular times fill quickly.
How long is free parking during UCLA move-in?
Free unloading parking typically lasts 3 hours during your assigned window. After this, vehicles must move to long-term parking areas.
What size sheets are needed for UCLA dorms?
UCLA dorm beds require Twin XL sheets (36″ x 80″). Regular twin sheets will not fit properly.
When does my UCLA meal plan start?
Meal plans usually activate for dinner service on your move-in day. Check the UCLA dining app for specific activation details.
