Late August will bring a familiar burst of activity to Redlands as cars filled with boxes, bedding, computers and other college essentials begin arriving at the University of Redlands. For hundreds of students and their families, move-in day represents more than the start of another academic year. It is the beginning of a new chapter, and the university is already preparing to help its newest Bulldogs make the transition from home to college life.
The University of Redlands has scheduled New Student Orientation for August 28 through August 30, 2026, with new-student move-in taking place Friday, August 28. Orientation is required for new first-year and transfer students and is designed to introduce them to classmates, faculty members, student leaders, academic advisers and campus resources.
The preparation begins well before students pull up to their residence halls. Incoming students have a series of requirements to complete before arriving, including updating emergency contact information, submitting final transcripts, completing financial arrangements and registering for orientation. Many of those remaining requirements carry an August 14 deadline. The university is using its Navigate360 system to help students keep track of the steps required for a successful transition.
Once students arrive, orientation shifts the focus from paperwork to building connections. New Bulldogs will learn about campus resources, meet members of their academic community and begin developing relationships that can provide support during their first semester. First-year students also participate in the university's First-Year Seminar program, where faculty and trained peer advisers help students understand college expectations, select courses and develop strategies for academic success.
Some incoming Bulldogs will arrive even earlier.
The University's First Year Journey program begins August 21, giving participating students an opportunity to move into campus housing before orientation and take part in an adventure-based introduction to college life. Participants spend their first days on campus meeting other students, checking equipment and preparing for their journeys before departing August 23. Programs include outdoor and indoor experiences ranging from hiking, camping and surfing to regional adventures designed to encourage personal growth and build connections among new students. Participants return August 27 for reflection and a celebration dinner, just one day before the rest of the incoming class begins moving in.
The arrival of students also has an impact beyond the university's 1200 East Colton Avenue campus. Move-in season traditionally brings parents and family members into Redlands, creating additional activity at local restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores and retailers. Students purchasing last-minute dorm supplies or exploring their new hometown are also introduced to the historic downtown, local businesses and community attractions that will surround them during their college years.
The University's residence halls will remain busy throughout the weekend. New students move in August 28, while returning students are scheduled to move in August 30.
The beginning of the 2026-27 academic year is particularly significant as the University of Redlands enters a new period in its history following its recently completed merger with Woodbury University. For incoming students, however, the experience will remain deeply personal. It begins with carrying that first box into a residence hall, meeting a roommate, finding a classroom and discovering what it means to become part of the Bulldog community.
For Redlands itself, the annual return of students is another reminder of the close relationship between the university and the city that has been its home for generations. By the end of August, campus walkways will once again be filled with students, and a new class of Bulldogs will begin making Redlands their home.