Merrill College at UCSC in springtime with students relaxing on the lawn under blooming cherry trees.

Housing & Residential Life

Being part of Merrill College

Whether you’re a new or returning student—or supporting one—head to Student Housing Services for the most up-to-date information about key deadlines, housing rates, application details, move-in guidance, and campus living resources. You’ll find quick links below to help you navigate to the information you need. For meal plan options and campus dining details, visit UCSC Dining. Visit the Housing website for mailroom information on the Merrill page. View our mailroom hours here. Please contact merrillmail@ucsc.edu with any mailroom questions.

merrill college exterior

Our residential buildings

Our four residence hall (dormitory-style) buildings are close to the college’s center, the beautiful Merrill Plaza, and our wonderful apartment community stretches across the little redwood canyon behind the residence halls. 

Sammy slug in holding a move-in box

Move-In

This page contains the important dates, to-do’s, and resources you will need to get ready for move-in day.

Student moving out

Get ready to move out of campus housing with key dates, to-do lists, donation and storage options, and tips for a smooth departure before summer.

Pipes in maintenance

Maintenance Request

Need something fixed in your room or building? From routine repairs to urgent issues, this page will help you figure out who to contact and how to get support—fast.

College Office

The Housing and Residential Education office serves both Merrill and Crown residents, assisting with a variety of housing and residential related issues. Have a question about housing? Need to speak with someone? Call, email, or drop by in person and we can help you! We are located on the first floor of the Merrill Plaza Building under the Merrill Market.

Merrill College at UCSC building exterior with brightly colored mural of butterflies and flowers.

Office Operating Hours and Contact Information:

Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

The front office phone number is (831) 459-5689. Our Office Coordinator or Student Office Assistants can help direct your questions to get you the answers you need.

Merrill College at UCSC in springtime with students relaxing on the lawn under blooming cherry trees.

After Hours Assistance:

We recognize you may need help after our office has closed. There are always people available to assist you with lock outs, safety needs, or anything else!

On weekends from 3 am-7 pm, a Residential Assistant can be reached at (831) 212-8749.

From 7 pm-3 am every night, a Residential Community Safety Partner can be reached at (831) 459-2100.

From 5 am-7 pm and 3 am-8 am, a Residential Assistant can be reached at (831) 212-8749.

Merrill College at UCSC. Merrill College sign on the front of the admin building.

A Sense of Community:

Merrill students pride themselves in creating and maintaining a close-knit community. For most students, their personal sense of the Merrill community grows outward: starting on their floor, moving to other floors or buildings and eventually to the whole college and campus at large. Merrill residents and students strive towards respectful adjustment to life here. We know the importance of communal living, and that our residential peer group continues to grow both deeper and more widespread over time.

Last modified: Sep 23, 2025