If you’re preparing for USC Move-In Day Fall 2025, this guide will help you from scheduling your appointment to unpacking in your new dorm.
The official USC move-in day for fall 2025 for undergraduate residents is Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Whether you’re a nervous freshman taking your first steps into college life, a transfer student ready to experience USC’s legendary campus culture, or a parent coordinating logistics, read on for everything you need to know about USC Move-In Day 2025.
Table of Contents
USC Move-In Day 2025: Key Dates and Schedule
USC Housing releases official move-in dates in early summer. Here’s what to expect for Fall 2025:
- Graduate Student Move-In Begins: Monday, August 11, 2025.
- Undergraduate Housing Contracts Begin (Move-In Day for Freshmen & Transfers): Wednesday, August 20, 2025. Freshman residence halls like New/North, Birnkrant, and Pardee generally have priority scheduling to accommodate the largest incoming class.
- Early Arrival Request Period Opens: Summer 2025 (individual requests up to five days before contract start date).
- Room Selection Process (Determines Move-In Time Slot): Late May – Early June 2025.
Undergraduate residents cannot move in before August 20, 2025, unless they receive explicit early arrival approval from USC Housing.
Early arrival requests—granted on a case-by-case basis—are limited to no earlier than five days before August 20 to allow time for summer cleaning and turnover.
How to Schedule USC Move-In Appointment
Your move-in appointment time is assigned based on the room you select during the fall 2025 Room Selection process (late May – early June 2025).
After you choose a room, USC Housing will notify you of your specific move-in window, in two-hour blocks between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on August 20.
Log in to the USC Housing Portal (May – June 2025)
Complete your housing application and select your preferred room or residential community.
Once you finalize room selection, a move-in timeslot will be automatically generated for you.
Check Your USC Email (Mid-Summer 2025)
USC Housing will send a Move-In Confirmation email, including your assigned date and time, a checklist of required documents, and a link to reserve a parking pass.
If you need a different time due to travel constraints, contact the USC Housing Customer Service Center no later than July 2025. Requests are not guaranteed but are considered if space allows.
Request Early Arrival (Optional)
If you have a department-led orientation, honor program, or other USC-sponsored event before August 20, you may request early arrival (no earlier than August 15).
Log in to the Housing Portal in June 2025 to submit your request. Approval depends on space availability and staff capacity to prepare rooms
The Ultimate USC Move-In Day Checklist
Packing strategically can make USC Move-In Day 2025 less stressful. Here’s a recommended packing list for your dorm room at USC Village, New North Residential College, or any on-campus community:
Essentials
- Valid Photo ID: Driver’s license or passport for check-in.
- Room Key & USC ID (Card/Cash): You will receive digital key access via the USC Housing app, but carry your physical USC ID card until you’re fully settled.
- Clothing & Toiletries: Plan for L.A. weather—late August can be warm. Pack at least one light jacket for cooler evenings.
- Bedding: Twin XL sheets, pillow, comforter, mattress topper (USC beds are Twin XL).
- Electronics & Chargers: Laptop, phone, extension cords, power strip (must be UL-approved and have a built-in surge protector).
- Personal & Room Decor: Posters, area rug, desk lamp (no halogen).
- Kitchen Supplies (If Applicable): Mini fridge (approved by Housing), microwave (optional), dishware, utensils. Some suites include a kitchenette.
Documents & Paperwork
- Proof of Immunizations/Health Forms: If you haven’t submitted these already to Student Health Services, bring copies to Housing check-in.
- Car Registration & Parking Permit: Reserve your parking pass online in mid-July 2025; bring proof of reservation and vehicle registration to avoid citations.
Moving Supplies
- Rolling Duffle or Cart: USC Housing provides rolling carts at check-in, but bringing your own can speed up the process.
- Bungee Cords & Zip Ties: Useful for securing boxes or attaching décor.
- Reusable Water Bottle & Snacks: Move-In can be a long day—stay hydrated and pack easy-to-eat snacks.
Create a “first-night” box with toiletries, a change of clothes, phone charger, and basic bedding so you can unpack essential items even if you’re too tired to unpack everything on Move-In Day.
Parking, Transportation & Check-In Procedures
Arriving at USC for Move-In Day Fall 2025 requires familiarity with campus traffic flow, parking rules, and check-in protocols:
Reserve a Parking Permit (July 2025)
- Once you receive your move-in appointment, log into USC Parking Services to reserve a Move-In Pass for August 20, 2025. Move-In parking zones vary by community:
- USC Village & New North Residential College Residents: Park in the McCarthy Way Parking Structure (Lot NN) and take the USC Housing shuttle to your building.
- Heritage Hall or Marks Tower Residents: Park in the Watt Way Parking Structure (Lot G1) and proceed on foot or via trolley.
- Cost: Move-In passes are free but sell out quickly. Reserve as soon as your move-in timeslot is confirmed.
Follow Signage & Volunteers
- On Move-In Day, USC Housing staff and student volunteers will guide you to unloading zones near your residence hall. Look for large directional signs along Exposition Blvd and McCarthy Way.
- Volunteers will distribute rolling carts and dollies—be courteous and share resources during peak hours.
Check-In at Your Residence Community
- Approach the Housing Check-In Desk inside your residential community’s lobby.
- Present your USC ID, room confirmation email, and emergency contact information.
- USC Housing staff will verify your paperwork, issue your room key (or activate your mobile key), and provide a campus map.
Unloading & Parking
- After unloading, move your vehicle to your assigned Move-In Lot. Lot numbers and zones are printed on your Move-In permit. Do not leave your car in an unloading zone longer than 30 minutes—you risk a ticket or a tow.
- If you live off campus and are parking in an apartment complex (e.g., USC Village apartments), follow that community’s parking instructions, which may differ from official USC lots.
On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Move-In Considerations
Approximately 65% of USC students live off campus (USC Athletics & Housing data, Spring 2024). If you’re moving into off-campus housing (apartment or Greek housing), note these differences:
Off-Campus Housing Move-In Dates Vary
- Your lease start date typically aligns with mid-August, but each property sets its own schedule.
- Contact your landlord or property manager in June 2025 to confirm exact move-in windows.
Parking & Traffic
- Off-campus communities near USC (USC Village apartments, The Row, Gateway, etc.) may offer dedicated loading docks and reserved Move-In parking.
- Check if your community provides moving assistance (dollies, valet parking) on their own Move-In Day.
Meal Plan Activation
- If you live on campus, your Unlimited Meal Plan becomes active on August 20, 2025.
- Off-campus residents must purchase a commuter meal plan online—ensure your Meal Plan Card is mailed to your off-campus address or pick it up at the USC Card Services office by mid-August.
Tips for a Smooth USC Move-In Day 2025
Travel Light—Plan Multiple Trips
- Packing your car too full can lead to traffic jams at unloading zones. Plan to make two or three smaller trips rather than one massive move.
Use the Downtown L.A. Traffic App
- August 20 is one of USC’s busiest days. Use Waze or Google Maps to monitor Expo Blvd traffic. Aim to arrive during off-peak hours (early morning or after 3:00 p.m.).
Coordinate with Roommates & Parents
- If you have roommates, divide responsibilities (one person handles check-in, another sets up bed).
- Parents or guardians can assist with unloading once you’ve checked in. USC Housing volunteers are usually available to lend a hand.
Stay Hydrated & Take Breaks
- Los Angeles heat in August can be intense. Carry a reusable water bottle and take short breaks—especially if you’re climbing stairs with boxes.
Familiarize Yourself with Essential Campus Resources
- Doheny Memorial Library: Open extended Move-In hours for printing syllabi and campus maps.
- USC Student Health Center (Engemann): Accepting walk-ins Aug 20–21 for basic health services.
- USC Campus Dining: Know where your nearest 24-hour market (Trader Joe’s in USC Village) and dining halls are in case you need a quick snack.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Move-In
USC is committed to environmental sustainability, and you can contribute to these efforts through conscious move-in choices.
Consider purchasing gently used items from thrift stores or online marketplaces rather than buying everything new.
Coordinate with other students to share transportation to campus, reducing the environmental impact of multiple family trips. Some families organize carpools or shared moving trucks for students from the same geographic area.
When possible, choose durable, multi-purpose items that will last throughout your college career rather than cheap alternatives that need frequent replacement. This approach is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run.
USC has recycling programs throughout campus, so familiarize yourself with proper sorting and disposal procedures. Many residence halls also have composting programs for food waste.
Local Resources for Families
If you’re traveling from out of state, consider staying at nearby hotels like the USC Hotel or other accommodations in downtown LA. Book early, as move-in weekend fills up quickly.
For last-minute shopping needs, Target and Bed Bath & Beyond locations near campus stock college essentials.
The USC Village also has retail options for forgotten items or quick needs. Many families make a final shopping trip together before saying goodbye.
Los Angeles offers incredible dining options for a farewell family meal. From food trucks near campus to upscale restaurants in downtown LA, you’ll find options to suit every budget and preference.
USC Orientation Week Activities
USC orientation week offers dozens of events designed to help you transition to college life and connect with your new community. Welcome mixers in your residence hall are perfect opportunities to meet neighbors and start building friendships that often last throughout college.
Academic preparation sessions provide crucial information about course registration, academic resources, and campus support services. Even if you feel prepared, these sessions often contain specific USC policies and procedures you won’t find elsewhere.
Campus resource tours introduce you to essential locations like libraries, dining halls, recreation centers, and academic buildings. Take advantage of these guided tours – USC’s campus is large, and getting oriented early will save you time and stress once classes begin.
USC Move-in Day 2025 Additional Resources
USC Housing Contact Information
- USC Housing Office: (213) 740-2546
- Emergency Housing Line: Available 24/7 through USC Department of Public Safety
- Housing Portal: housing.usc.edu
Campus Emergency Numbers
- USC Department of Public Safety: (213) 740-4321
- Emergency (from campus phones): 911 or x4321
- Counseling and Mental Health Services: (213) 740-7711
Useful USC Websites and Portals
- USC Student Information System (SIS): my.usc.edu
- USC Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android
- USC Transportation: transnet.usc.edu
- Student Health Services: studenthealth.usc.edu
Social Media Accounts to Follow
- @USC (Instagram/Twitter) – Official university updates
- @USCHousing (Instagram) – Housing-specific information and community highlights
- @VisitUSC (Instagram) – Campus life and student experiences
- USC Class of 2029 Facebook groups – Connect with your incoming class
USC Move-In Day Fall 2025 FAQs
What day is USC Move‑In Day for Fall 2025?
Undergraduate move‑in for Fall 2025 is Wednesday, August 20, 2025, with specific 2‑hour appointment windows assigned by residence hall. Graduate student move‑in starts as early as August 11, 2025.
How do I request early move‑in at USC?
Eligible students (e.g., Honors, athletes, ROTC) may request early move‑in up to five days before contract start, beginning August 15, via the Housing Portal.
Approval is conditional on room readiness.
Fee: $75/night if approved; unapproved arrivals might be denied or charged $200/night.
How do I schedule my USC move‑in appointment time?
After completing room selection in late May–early June, USC Housing will email your specific 2‑hour move‑in slot (8 a.m.–5 p.m.) by mid-July. Contact housing@usc.edu if you haven’t received it by July 31.
Where do I park on USC Move‑In Day?
Reserve a Move‑In Parking Permit:
USC Village & New North: McCarthy Way Structure (Lot NN)
Heritage Hall & Marks Tower: Watt Way Structure (Lot G1).
Unload in marked zones—parking must be relocated after 30 minutes to avoid fines.
Is assistance provided on USC Move‑In Day?
Yes—USC Housing provides rolling carts, dollies, and student volunteers at designated drop-off zones. Staff do not carry belongings for you.
What should I bring on USC Move‑In Day?
Be sure to pack/check in with:
Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
Room confirmation email & meal plan card
Twin XL bedding, toiletries, chargers, power strip
Optional kitchen items (mini-fridge/microwave if allowed)
Avoid prohibited items: hoverboards, private routers, candles, and window AC units
What is not allowed in USC dorms?
Prohibited items include:
Pets (only fish in 10-gallon tanks allowed)
Ungrounded appliances, personal routers, hoverboards
Smoking/vaping, candles/incense, open coil heaters
Excessive décor, nails, tape on walls, weapons, and furniture rules apply.
What size beds are in USC dorms?
Undergraduate dorms use extra-long twin beds (36″×80″). Graduate apartments may feature full XL beds. Pack accordingly.
How do I apply for USC housing, and when will I get assigned?
Apply via the Housing Portal after admission.
Pay a $60 non-refundable application fee and a $800 confirmation payment (refundable under contract terms).
Assignments via a lottery system and roommate preferences are typically emailed late May–early June
Is USC housing first‑come, first‑serve?
No—housing placement considers lottery results, preferences, and priority groups. Waitlists open for upperclassmen and transfers in spring/summer.
How much does USC housing cost?
Per academic year (2025–2026 estimates, including meal plans & utilities).
Freshman double hall: $21,500–22,300
Upperclassmen apartment: $16,700–18,700
How much is the USC housing deposit?
USC admission deposit: $800 (due May 1)
Housing confirmation: $800 (credited toward rent if contract fulfilled).
Is USC housing per semester or year?
Contracts run for the academic year (Fall + Spring). Summer housing requires a separate application and fees.
Can freshmen live off‑campus?
Yes—freshmen may choose off-campus housing, but USC guarantees on-campus placement if applications are submitted by May 1. Off-campus leases and move-in dates vary by property.
How much is USC’s confirmation fee?
Housing application processing: $60
Contract confirmation payment: $800 (Fall/Spring), $400 (Spring/Summer).
