New Student Checklist

Complete all items on this checklist to ensure an easy transition into your college career at the University of Cincinnati.

• Upon graduation, send your official and final high school transcript(s) to the UC Undergraduate Admissions Office.
• If you will be a student during the 2024-25 academic year, add University of Cincinnati to your 2024-25 FAFSA. Use the FAFSA code 003125.
• Get in-depth information about the FAFSA form and what to expect after you submit your application.
• Give parent/guest access to your Catalyst account.
• Check your To Do List in Catalyst and complete any listed items, including:
• Create your financial aid portal account, if requested. 
• Complete Financial Agreement in Catalyst Tasks tile.
• Complete Financial Aid Permissions in Catalyst Tasks tile.
• Sign up for direct deposit to set up the bank account to which you wish to receive any refunds in Catalyst via the My Finances tile.
• Waive your university health insurance in Catalyst, if you have other coverage.
• Accept your financial aid in Catalyst under the My Finances tile.
• Complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and Loan Entrance Counseling, if you are borrowing federal student loans.
  
• Review options for covering remaining costs using the  Estimated Remaining Cost Tool and make a plan for how you will cover all remaining costs.
• Student bills become available in Catalyst approximately six weeks before the start of the semester. Check your student bill in Catalyst regularly and review due dates and payment options.
• Submit vaccination information.
• Review your residency status via the My Profile tile in Catalyst and submit residency application if necessary. 
• File the 2025-26 FAFSA as early as December 1, 2024. Set yourself up for success, as limited aid sources run out quickly.
• Check your UC student email account regularly.
• Pay attention to important dates and deadlines each semester.
• Contact Enrollment Services with billing, financial aid and registration questions.