APPLY TO UC MERCED

APPLYING TO UC MERCED

As part of the world-renowned University of California system, there’s just one application for any of the nine undergraduate campuses. You can begin working on the Fall 2026 UC application on August 1, check the box for the University of California, Merced, and submit your application between October 1 and Dec. 1.

START APPLICATION
Calendar
Fall deadline: November 30
Application fee
$80 application fee

$95 for international applications

Test optional
Test Optional

INTERESTED IN APPLYING FOR THE SPRING SEMESTER?

Submit the UC application between July 1-July 31

How To Apply

Undergraduate Application Requirements

(Tips for helpful information to have with you)

  1. Transcripts: You don’t need to submit your transcripts when you apply, but refer to them while you fill out your application to ensure your information is accurate.
  2. Annual income for last year and the current year (optional unless you’re applying for a fee waiver or the Educational Opportunity Program).
  3. Social Security number, if you have one. We use this to match your application with other important documents.

First-Year Students

UC Merced first-year student

First-year applicants are students who are currently in high school (with or without college coursework completed), or students who have graduated high school and have taken no college coursework post-high school.

FIRST-YEAR REQUIREMENTS

Student laughing in a classroom Learn More Transfer

Student wearing a Black Student Union shirt at UC Merced Learn More Out of State

Students at a booth with international flags Learn More International

Fee Waivers

UC will waive application fees for up to four campuses for qualified students who would otherwise be unable to apply for admission. The fee waiver program is for United States citizens, permanent residents, and applicants eligible for AB540 benefits. If you apply to more than four campuses, you must pay $80 for each additional choice.

UC Merced admissions team

Contact An Admissions Advisor

If you have any questions about applying to UC Merced, we’re here to help!

TALK TO AN ADVISOR

Explore The Full Spectrum Of UC Merced

When you’re not in class, there are activities and opportunities that help keep you engaged and form meaningful and lasting connections. Some of our most frequently asked questions include: What is campus life like? How is the academic experience? What financial aid or scholarships might I qualify for? Read on to find out!

Campus Life

Find your niche in one of our 300+ clubs or start your own, join a fraternity or sorority, attend events like comedy shows and concerts … the list goes on! Housing is guaranteed for first year and transfer students who meet the housing application deadlines, and you can choose to be part of a Living Learning Community.

Athlete or sport fan? Compete on one of our intercollegiate sports teams that have just become NCAA Division II, or on an intramural or sport club. You can also benefit from new recreation facilities, tennis courts, a swimming pool, sport fields and more!

Love the outdoors? We’ve got you covered. You can check out our Outdoor Experience Program to explore some of the most stunning natural beauty California has to offer.

GET INVOLVED

Academics

Whether you’re planning to come to UC Merced as an undeclared major or select one of our 51 majors (with specialized areas and minors too), you’ll find your place and your passion in the School of Engineering, School of Natural Sciences or School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts. Outstanding faculty who are leaders in their fields make themselves accessible to students and often become valued mentors, long after our Bobcats graduate.

CHOOSE A MAJOR

Financial Aid

We are committed to making your University of California, Merced education affordable. Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for aid, we encourage you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA). You might be surprised. If you need help applying for financial aid or have questions about the cost of attendance, check out the resources on this page.

APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID