- I received an email inviting me to participate in the Count Me In program, but I did not originally include UC Merced as a campus choice on my University of California application. Does this offer still apply to me?
Yes. Since you have been determined to meet the minimum requirements for UC admission, we would like to give you a chance to indicate interest in UC Merced, even though you didn't initially apply here. The University of California is committed to ensuring enrollment opportunities for all qualified California high school graduates, and we recognize your potential for success.
- When I click on the Count Me In link, what is my application number?
The application number is your seven-digit UC application number, which you can find by logging in to your UC application or by reviewing a copy of your UC application submission/receipt. For Fall 2022 applicants, your application number will begin with an 9.
- If I decide I want to take you up on this offer and be considered for admission to UC Merced, what is my next step?
You should have received a link to the Count Me In website via email, where you will be able to review the conditions you must meet to be considered for admission and fill out a participation form to indicate your interest. If you are unable to find your invitation email, you can also apply by visiting the Count Me In website.
- Does participating in Count Me In guarantee my admission to UC Merced?
If you meet the prescribed criteria listed on the Count Me In website and successfully complete the online submission process, you will be provisionally admitted to the Fall 2022 term.
- When do I need to respond?
The deadline to visit the Count Me In website and submit the participation form is indicated in your Count Me In invitation. We encourage you to respond as soon as possible, so that you have an opportunity to further explore our campus before making the decision to enroll.
- Can I select a major?
Yes, selecting a major is one of the advanced steps in the online submission process. We encourage you to further explore our academic offerings at admissions.ucmerced.edu/academics/majors-minors. Students will be able to select an emphasis later with the help of their academic advisor. Please note, if you decided to change your major, you will need to work with your academic advisor after you've committed to enrolling at UC Merced.
- Once I apply, when should I expect to hear back?
You should receive a response with enough time to make an informed decision. Typically, decisions are available 2 to 3 weeks after you've submitted your response.
- Am I still eligible to accept this invitation if I’m currently on the waitlist at another UC campus or campuses?
Yes. In fact, we highly recommend students who have NOT been admitted to either a UC campus or another college or university accept this invitation, since a waitlist offer is not a guarantee of admission later.
- How much will it cost to be considered for admission through this offer?
There is no admission application cost associated with the Count Me In online submission process.
- Are there any other costs?
If you decide to enroll, all other regular costs are applicable, including but not limited to a deposit to submit your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR), if applicable, and Orientation fees. Other regular fees can be seen here.
- Why do I have to certify that I will meet certain conditions?
You must certify that you will meet the conditions of this offer to complete the submission process and be considered for admission to UC Merced. Admitted students whose official, final records do not match the self-reported information in their applications are at risk of having their admission offer withdrawn, even after the nonrefundable $250 deposit and Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) have been submitted.
- Financial Aid: Do I need to make any updates to my Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA)?
If you already submitted the FAFSA or CADAA, you should add UC Merced at studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa or dream.csac.ca.gov as soon as possible. Our school code is 041271. If you did not already submit the FAFSA or CADAA, you can still submit them now. Aid may still be available even though the April 1 extended Cal Grant deadline has passed. If you have questions, contact the Students First Center at 209-228-7178, or visit the Financial Aid website at financialaid.ucmerced.edu.
- How and when will I know how much financial aid I am offered?
You should receive a response regarding your admission with enough time to make an informed decision. Typically, admissions decisions are available 2 to 3 weeks after you've submitted your response. Your financial aid awards, pending you have added our school code to your FAFSA or CADAA, should be available within 3-5 business days after you receive your official admission decision.
- When and how should I apply for housing?
UC Merced guarantees ALL incoming first year undergraduate students the ability to live on campus for two academic years. You can apply for housing 24 hours after you submit your SIR. To receive guaranteed housing in the residence halls, new First Year/Freshmen students must submit a housing application by May 23, 2022 by 11:59pm PDT at housing.ucmerced.edu. Must sign the offered contract by May 26, 2022 by 11:59pm PDT. If you are unable to meet the priority housing application deadline, contact the Office of Housing and Residence Life to explore your living options for the fall.
- What if the information I entered on the website was inaccurate?
Please note: Admission is provisional with the condition that all information submitted can be officially verified and the Conditions of Admission are met. If you wish to select a different major after you have submitted your Count Me In participation form, you will need to work with your academic advisor to change your major, which is typically done prior to course registration. The Office of Admissions is unable to process major change requests.
- If I have questions, how can I get in touch with you?
Call us at 209-228-7178 and select Admissions. You can also email admissions@ucmerced.edu.
- How do I learn more about UC Merced?
Visit our website at admissions.ucmerced.edu, where you can view more information about our campus and our digital viewbook Explore UC Merced. You can also view one of our recorded webinars or join us for an upcoming online event in our Become a Bobcat virtual series. If you would like to tour the campus, visit tours.ucmerced.edu for options to tour UC Merced in person or virtually.