Thanks to safety protocols including vaccine and testing mandates, UCR was able to welcome students back to campus in September for in-person classes, events, and more.

The 2021—22 school year kicked off Sept. 16 with students moving into campus residence halls and apartments, including the brand-new North District Apartments. For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, campus housing is at full capacity and about 7,000 students are living on campus.

The fall quarter began the week after move-in and the first classes were held in the new Student Success Center, which features high-tech lecture halls, scenic views, and study spaces. For students taking virtual classes, UCR established remote learning hubs to provide them with comfortable and quiet spaces to log in to class while on campus.

Returning students have been enjoying some of their favorite campus dining options and a new residential dining experience. Popular dining spots like The Habit, Chronic Taco, and Panda Express are open and busy, with more venues expected to open soon. The recently remodeled Barn is open for happy hour and will be announcing its full reopening plans later in the quarter. Campus residents are enjoying all-you-care-to-eat fare in the new Glasgow Restaurant located in the Dundee Residence Hall.

Campus events and gatherings are ramping back up. On Wednesdays, students are connecting with campus organizations and enjoying performances during the R’Day gatherings at the Bell Tower. Students are following enhanced safety protocols to cheer on the men's and women's soccer, and women's volleyball and cross country teams at home matches. Clubs are hosting in-person meetings and resource offices like the Ethnic & Gender Centers are offering in-person and virtual programming.