If you are a Parent or a Supporter of an incoming First-Year or Transfer student to UC Berkeley curious about the ways you can support your student in their Berkeley journey, consider joining the Parent and Supporters Orientation! The Parent and Supporters Orientation is a program led by New Student Services and Cal Parents where parents and supporters can learn more about their student’s next steps integrating into the Berkeley campus, and participate in asking student panelists any questions relating to financial aid, academic support, professional development opportunities, and social life at Cal.
We will be hosting three sessions. We recognize that this is a very busy and impactful time for your family. While we would love for you to join us, please know that spending time with your student is also very important. In addition, your student may be moving into University Residence Halls (August 20 or August 21) and checking into Golden Bear Orientation (August 21) during the following sessions:
Location: Pauley Ballroom, MLK Student Union 3rd Floor
Session #1: Tuesday, August 20 1:00 pm -3:00 pm
Session #2: Tuesday, August 20 4:00 pm -6:00 pm
Session #2: Wednesday, August 21 10:00 am -12:00 pm
Each will have the same content – no need to attend all sessions! We will be providing English, Spanish, and Mandarin captioning via the GBO-specific Stream2Text link at Parent and Supporters Orientation.
Due to capacity and in an effort to provide space for as many Parents and Supporters as possible, your student may not be able to attend the session with you. Due to Pauley Ballroom capacity, attendance will be on a first come, first served basis. We will also be recording the session and publishing it on this site after the program is over (early September) in case you are unable to attend.
Campus Partners
For any questions you may have prior to the orientation program, you can visit our campus partners website linked down below:
Do I need to sign up for Parent and Supporter Orientation?
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You do not need to sign up for Parent and Support Orientation. Our orientation is open to all parents or supporters on a first come, first serve basis. You are able to attend any of the three sessions available, however we highly encourage arriving on time to guarantee your spot.
Is there a cost associated with Parent and Supporter Orientation?
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There is no fee associated with the Parent and Supporter Orientation. It is free for all parents or supporters.
Can I stay with my student during Golden Bear Orientation?
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Incoming students will be attending orientation with their orientation leaders and new student group. To encourage students to find connections on campus, we recommend that they stay with their group the entire time without their guests.
What do I need to bring to Parent and Supporter Orientation?
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We do not require any guest to bring anything to Parent and Supporter Orientation. We encourage guests to bring their own water bottles as there will not be any provided with this event.
May I bring children to Parent and Supporter Orientation?
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Parent and Supporter Orientation welcomes all guests that are wanting to gain information about our campus community.
Are there disability services/accommodations during Parent and Supporter Orientation?
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New Student Services works with the Disabled Students’ Program (DSP) and Disability Access and Compliance to provide accommodations for PSO. If you require accommodations for a disability (visible or invisible) to fully participate in PSO, please email us at nss@berkeley.edu. We appreciate as much advance notice as possible to better prepare to address your needs.
How can I get involved on campus as a parent, grandparent, or guardian?
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We encourage all supporters to get involved in our campus community. One method is by joining Cal Parents Ambassadors. This volunteer group is dedicated to enhancing the experience of Berkeley students and their families. Through this opportunity, you are able to serve as an advocate and representative for the university at volunteer events such as move-in activities, Parent Weekend, Cal Day, and Admission Receptions.
How do I receive campus information about events, programs and activities?
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The university asks that all new students complete the Parent Information Form, which can be accessed under Tasks in CalCentral. Although completion of this form is voluntary, the information provided will help the university keep families informed about campus events, activities and programs. You may also submit your contact information on the Cal Parents website (calparents.berkeley.edu/update/).
How can I access my student’s information?
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The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)is a federal law that protects the privacy of student records and prohibits University staff from disclosing certain information to parents or other individuals without the permission of the student. Students may grant permission to delegates who are parents, guardians, spouses, or any other person to view enrollment information, enrollment information plus grades, and/or financial information (e.g. pay bills, view financial aid). This allows parents or guardians to pay your tuition/fees, view enrollments, view grades, or any combination of the three.
Where do I access information about all things related to being a parent and supporter?
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The Resource Guide for Parents provides you with helpful information about the university and the network of resources available to your student on our campus. Our hope is that you will use this guide to support your student along their educational path.