Overview
University of California-Merced is a accessible public four-year institution in Merced, California. The school accepts 89.5% of applicants and enrolls 8,372 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 89.5%
- Total Enrollment
- 8,372
Admission Guide
UC Merced accepts applications through the UC application system, with a November 30 deadline for fall admission. You submit one application that covers all UC campuses, but you must specifically select Merced and pay the application fee for each campus.
Engineering programs at UC Merced are more competitive than the overall campus admission rate suggests. Computer engineering and mechanical engineering attract strong applicants, so your math and science grades carry extra weight for these majors. The school's newer bioengineering program also draws competitive applicants.
Housing fills quickly at UC Merced since the campus is relatively small and located in a town with limited off-campus options. Submit your housing application immediately after you receive admission confirmation. The campus guarantees housing for first-year students, but you need to meet deadlines.
UC Merced operates on a semester system and offers a summer bridge program for students who want extra preparation before fall classes begin. The campus provides extensive research opportunities for undergraduates, particularly in STEM fields, because of its smaller size compared to other UC campuses.
Transportation matters at UC Merced since the campus sits outside downtown Merced. The CatTracks shuttle system connects campus to nearby shopping and the Merced Transpo bus system, but having a car makes life easier. The campus has expanded parking in recent years.
New Student Orientation is mandatory and takes place in late August before fall classes. You register for classes during orientation, so come prepared with backup course options since some popular classes fill quickly.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $12,744/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $14,167
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $44,944
- Students Receiving Aid
- 59%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 69.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $64,368/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for University of California-Merced?
UC Merced follows the UC system application deadline of November 30 for fall admission. The application opens August 1.
Does University of California-Merced require SAT or ACT scores?
UC Merced is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Students can choose whether to submit test scores as part of their application.
Can I transfer to University of California-Merced from a community college?
Yes, UC Merced accepts transfer students from community colleges and other four-year institutions. Transfer students must complete specific general education and prerequisite courses for their intended major.
Does University of California-Merced offer early admission programs?
No, UC Merced does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applicants apply through the standard UC application process with the same November deadline.