Summer Edge

What is Summer Edge?

Summer Edge is UCSC’s early start program for newly admitted students. Get ahead by taking summer classes before your first official fall quarter and get access to exclusive workshops and fun activities!

Eligibility 

First Year and Transfer students admitted for fall 2026.

How to Participate

• Complete your Statement of Intent to Register(SIR) through your MyUCSC Student Portal
• Register* between April 1 – June 15, 2026 to access summer enrollment
• Enroll in summer classes starting May 1

*Registration is free and does not obligate you to enroll in classes if your summer plans change.

Classes 

Take a minimum of 7 credits over the summer. Most summer classes are taught at an accelerated 5-week pace. You can take all of your classes in one Session, or spread them out over multiple sessions.

• Take classes to fulfill prerequisite, major, or General Education (GE) requirements.
• Complete an entire course series over summer (ex: Math 19A and Math 19B).
• Take a class to explore a major or passion while still earning credits that count toward your degree.

What motivated me to join Summer Edge was the opportunity to get a head start in school. I genuinely feared for my academic performance and for a long time doubted myself. Summer Edge showed me that I could succeed academically and truly enjoy college. I am super grateful for my experience at Merrill too and all the amazing friends I’ll have now forever. Being able to wander and explore the campus environment was really helpful because I felt like a pro-navigator when fall started. 

– Maya Nelson

The Edge Residential Experience (Session 2)

Students taking at least one class in Session 2 can opt into the residential living experience in on-campus housing along with other new admits and dedicated Summer Edge Peer Mentors.

Benefits

• Access to exclusive academic workshops and exciting social events on and off campus.
• Explore your new home and get familiar with campus before fall -including local transportation options, campus trails and study spots.
• Get early access to student accounts and campus resources.
• Build relationships with instructors before the rush of fall.

Registration

Summer Edge registration will open April 1 – June 15. Registration is free and gives newly admitted students access to enroll in summer classes before their first official fall quarter.

Not sure what your summer plans are? Registration is not an obligation to enroll in summer classes but students must be registered to have the option.

Note: As an incoming student, you are responsible for ensuring that your conditions of admission to UC Santa Cruz have been met. Read the Conditions of Admission page in your online offer of admission to fully understand your obligations. If you anticipate any problem that could hinder you from meeting your conditions, please contact the Office of Admissions through their Contacts and Directory Tool or (831) 459-4008 as soon as possible.