Updated September 1, 2026
You might be wondering: what will Golden Bear Orientation (GBO) look like? Check back in October for a sample schedule for GBO Spring 2027 students. Due to the smaller Spring 2027 entering cohort, the majority of programs will be hosted together. There will also be time on Friday for you to connect with a small group led by continuing students.
We understand that a model built for so many students will not accommodate every individual; if after reading through the sample schedules below you believe that you will need accommodations during GBO, please scroll to the bottom of this page* to find instructions on how to request these accommodations.
See below for sample schedules based on your admit type.
*Note
We recognize that a model built for so many students will not accommodate everyone. Please read over our policies for more information about participation requirements, and to let us know how we can best serve your needs for orientation.
Check In
Check In will occur the morning of Friday, January 15, 2027. Check back in December for exact times and location.
Meals
Meals will be provided throughout GBO. You will have an assigned location and time for each meal. All meals will be able to provide options for dietary needs. If you do not see your dietary needs met, please directly ask one of the Cal Dining Staff present and inform your Orientation Leader as soon as possible.
Curious about what dietary restrictions can be accommodated? Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions page.
New Student Welcome
Check back in December for updated details on the New Student Welcome.
Resource Fair
The Campus Department Resource Fair will introduce incoming students to 70+ campus departments, including Berkeley Study Abroad and University Health Services. The fair will be hosted in person and will allow you to connect directly with staff from various campus departments.
Transfer Student Welcome
Transfer Student Welcome is a program in partnership with the Transfer Center, with its main goal being to welcome all transfer students to the Berkeley community and to discuss services and resources available to them.
College Programming
College Programming consists of programming designed by each college (e.g College of Letters and Science, College of Natural Resources) to prepare students for life in that specific academic environment. During these events, there will be an introduction to your college and more specific sessions centered around what to expect from your college and major. Check the Cal Events app for specific events related to your major. Note: EAP students should not attend College Programming.
Banner Signing
An iconic GBO tradition! Come add your name to the Class of 2028 or Class of 2030 banners. These will be hung up at your graduation – book ends to your Berkeley career!