New Student Checklist

This checklist outlines the initial steps students admitted for Fall 2026 take during your transition to the UMass Amherst community. The checklist will be updated as more details are confirmed.

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1. Commit to UMass.

Congratulations! You’ve been admitted and are officially joining the UMass community. There are a few important steps to complete to reserve your spot for your first semester. As soon as you’re ready to commit to UMass Amherst, follow the first three steps to secure your place. Then, review the additional steps to prepare for your first day of class.

Review the Information for Admitted Students Review the Information for Admitted Students Accept Our Offer of Admission Accept Our Offer of Admission Send your official final high school transcript Send your official final high school transcript

2. Prepare for your first semester.

Now that you’ve committed to UMass Amherst, it’s time to get ready for your first semester on campus. Review the following steps carefully and complete these tasks!

Activate Your Account Activate Your Account Keep track of important dates using the New Student Experience Timeline. Keep track of important dates using the New Student Experience Timeline. Check Your UMass Email Check Your UMass Email Learn more about financial aid Learn more about financial aid

3. Start your path.

Now that you’ve completed the previous steps, it’s time to focus on preparing for academic advising. Review the following steps carefully and complete these tasks to get started on your academic path.

Sign up for Ready for the U Sign up for Ready for the U Upload UCard Photo Upload UCard Photo Complete Guide to the U Complete Guide to the U Take placement exams Take placement exams

4. Make UMass Home.

Now that you’ve completed the necessary academic steps, it’s time to focus on your life outside the classroom. From choosing your residence hall to exploring student organizations, take these final steps to prepare for life on campus and your first day as a UMass Amherst student.

Complete Housing Preference Application Complete Housing Preference Application View or make a move-in reservation View or make a move-in reservation Attend Welcome to the U Attend Welcome to the U Submit Immunization Records and SHBP Waiver Submit Immunization Records and SHBP Waiver

5. DISCOVER UMASS.

Now that you're here learn more about what makes UMass the place for you.

Get Involved Get Involved Find a Job Find a Job Buy Your Books Buy Your Books Get a Parking Permit Get a Parking Permit