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Admitted Students

Congratulations—you’ve been admitted to Occidental College! Now let's take the next step.

This is an exciting moment, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. Whether you’ve already fallen in love with Occidental or you still have questions before deciding, this page is your guide. You’ll find key next steps, opportunities to explore life at Occidental, and support to help you feel confident in your college choice. Be sure to submit the reply form by the deadline to secure your spot in the class.

An Occidental student asks questions at orientation

Ready to join the class?

Submit your reply form to let us know you’re coming. It only takes a few minutes—and it makes it official.

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Admitted Student Events

Join us in person or online to ask questions and experience the community firsthand.

Joining the Oxy Community

Deciding to enroll at Occidental is about more than earning a degree—it's about becoming part of a vibrant, inclusive community. Explore how students engage with one another, build meaningful connections, and shape the campus culture. Here are a few ways to learn more and start connecting.

Life at Occidental Videos

See what life at Occidental is really like through the eyes of current students through week-in-the-life videos and other videos about the student experience.

Understand Your Aid & Affordability

Still have questions about financial aid? We’re committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated need for US citizens and permanent residents. If you’ve received your financial aid offer, we recommend reviewing it with your family—and reaching out if you have questions.

Financial Aid

Oswald the Tiger is on the phone - Connect with us

Need Help? We’re Here for You

Your admission counselor is your go-to contact for any final questions about Occidental or what to expect.

Admitted Student FAQs

For first-year admits, the deadline to submit your reply form and enrollment deposit to Occidental College is May 1. For transfer admits, the dates vary based upon your application round (check your admission letter for the deadline). Be sure to confirm your spot in the class by this date!

To request a deferral, you’ll need to submit the Gap Year Request Form. Requests are reviewed by the Office of Admission, and decisions are shared in writing. You must commit to Occidental by submitting the Admitted Student Reply Form before requesting a gap year. Deferrals are typically granted for one year. In rare cases—such as national military or religious service—students may request a two-year deferral. First-year students who defer are required to reconfirm their intention to enroll in the winter before their entry term, with instructions sent via email.

Occidental is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for US citizens and permanent residents. If your family’s financial situation has changed since submitting the FAFSA or CSS Profile, you may submit an appeal letter to the Office of Financial Aid for review.

Appeals are considered on a case-by-case basis and must include documentation of your changed circumstances. For details on what kinds of changes qualify and what documentation is required, visit our Special Circumstances page.

Please note: Merit scholarship decisions are final and not eligible for appeal.
 

Yes, students who are still finalizing need-based financial aid may request more time by submitting the Admitted Student Reply Deadline Extension Request. Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis and only if all required financial aid documents and any need-based appeals have already been submitted. Incomplete financial aid files will result in a denied extension request.

Contact Admission
Collins House

1600 Campus Road
Los Angeles, CA 90041