Question 1

What is a hackathon?

Accepted Answer

A hackathon is an immersive, time-bound event where teams of students tackle real-world problem statements provided by corporate partners. Participants brainstorm, design, and build solutions that can include software, hardware, or creative strategies.

Question 2

What is a case study?

Accepted Answer

A case study is your chance to tackle real challenges from top companies. No coding required! Work with your team to brainstorm solutions, present your ideas, and sharpen your skills.

Question 3

Where will Hack the Coast be held?

Accepted Answer

It will be held on the UC Irvine campus in the Division of Continuing Education (DCE).

510 E Peltason Dr, Irvine, CA 92617

Question 4

Where can I park at the event?

Accepted Answer

You can park in any nearby UC Irvine lot or structure. Parking permits are required (about $4/hour or $16/day) and can be purchased at on-site kiosks.

Question 5

Who can participate in Hack the Coast?

Accepted Answer

Our hackathon is open to all college students, from any discipline or background! Whether you’re into coding, design, business, or just love solving problems, we welcome anyone eager to collaborate, innovate, and make an impact.

Question 6

What if I have no experience?

Accepted Answer

No experience? No problem! Our hackathon is designed for beginners and experts alike. You’ll learn on the go through hands-on challenges, attend workshops to build new skills, and connect with teammates from different backgrounds. Plus, our socials give you a chance to meet fellow participants, network with industry professionals, and have fun along the way!

Question 7

What do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

Bring your own laptop and a water bottle. Other than that, bring yourself, your ideas, and your enthusiasm. Come ready to collaborate, create, and have fun!

Question 8

Do I sign up as an individual or a team?

Accepted Answer

You sign up as an individual! Don’t worry if you don’t have a team yet, we’ll help you form one at the event. If you already have friends in mind, you can still register individually and team up with them when the hackathon begins.

Question 9

How many people per team?

Accepted Answer

Participates of the hackathon should have 3-5 hackers per team.
Participates of a case study should have 5 members per team.

If you come with fewer than the minimum team size, we’ll help you find teammates at the event so you can complete your team and start collaborating.

Question 10

Will food be provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We’ve got you covered with pizza, snacks, drinks, and more to keep you fueled while you hack.

Question 11

Can I come with a project pre-built or will I have to build it from scratch?

Accepted Answer

All projects are built from scratch at the hackathon! Roll up your sleeves, team up, and create something amazing on the spot. No pre-built shortcuts allowed.

HACK THE COAST 2026

Event Schedule

Day 1 Friday, April 17

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM

TEAM FORMATION​ -- Speed Friending (Optional)

7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

WORKSHOPS (Round 1) -- Getting Into AI

9:00 PM

CLOSE THE NIGHT

Day 2 Saturday, April 18

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

1:00 PM - 1:45 PM

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

7:00 PM

8:15 PM

Workshops

AI-Enhanced Coding

GitHub

And more...!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hackathon?

What is a case study?

Where will Hack the Coast be held?

Where can I park at the event?

Who can participate in Hack the Coast?

What if I have no experience?

What do I need to bring?

Do I sign up as an individual or a team?

How many people per team?

Will food be provided?

Can I come with a project pre-built or will I have to build it from scratch?

NETWORK WITH INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS FROM​

INTERESTED IN SPONSORING OUR EVENT?

OUR SPONSORS

TEAM FORMATION
-- Speed Friending (Optional)

WORKSHOPS (Round 1)
-- Getting Into AI

NETWORK WITH INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS FROM