First Year CMI FAQs | Transfer CMI FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions - "Count Me In" First Year (Freshman) Offer
- 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. We would like to give you a chance to indicate interest in UC Merced, even though you didn't initially apply here.
- 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 2026 applicants, your application number will begin with a 4.
- 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.
- 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, and no later than January 16, 2026.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 and no later than March 2, 2026. The sooner you submit your financial aid application, the earlier we can process a financial aid award. Our school code is 041271. If you have questions, contact the Students First Center at 209-228-7178, or visit the Financial Aid website at financialaid.ucmerced.edu.
- Are there any other costs?
No, you will not be charged an application fee for participating in this program.
- What if I wasn't selected to participate in the program, can I still be considered for admissions at UC Merced this fall?
If you were not selected for the Count Me In program, you must file an appeal for a late application at admissions.ucmerced.edu/appeals to be considered for admissions for the fall.
- 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. If you would like to tour the campus, visit tours.ucmerced.edu for options to tour UC Merced in person or virtually.
Frequently Asked Questions - "Count Me In" Transfer Offer
-
Does Count Me In guarantee my admission to UC Merced?
If you meet the prescribed criteria listed on the website, which includes the minimum UC transfer admission requirements and required major selection, and successfully complete the online submission process, you will be considered for admission to UC Merced for the Fall 2026 term. The CMI program is only open to majors in the SSHA Pilot program.
-
Why have I been offered the opportunity to be considered for admission to UC Merced when it wasn't one of my University of California campus choices?
We recognize your potential for success at the University of California. In that light, we would like to give you a chance to indicate interest in UC Merced, even though you did not initially apply here.
-
If I decide to take you up on this offer and be considered for admission to UC Merced, what is my next step?
The Count Me In website you visited via the link in your invitation will take you through several steps, including selecting your major at UC Merced and a page that lists conditions you must meet to be considered for admission.
-
Why do I have to certify that I will meet certain conditions and complete specific courses?
At UC Merced, all majors are selective at the transfer level. Without the listed required courses, transfer students cannot be admitted to majors at UC Merced. We want to make sure you have carefully reviewed all the information before completing the online submission process for Count Me In.
-
When do I need to respond?
The deadline to visit the Count Me In website and indicate your interest was provided in your invitation email.
-
If I am not offered fall admission, may I speak with an advisor to see how to prepare for a Spring 2027 application?
Yes, you can make an online appointment with one of our Transfer Admissions Advisors about how best to prepare for a Spring 2027 application.
-
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 as soon as possible. Our FAFSA Code is 041271. If you did not already submit the FAFSA or Dream Act Application, you can still submit it now. Aid may still be available! If you have questions, contact the Financial Aid Office at (209) 228-7178 or visit financialaid.ucmerced.edu.
-
Can I select a major?
Yes, selecting a major is one of the advanced steps in the online submission process. We recommend you review the major-specific admission requirements to make sure you have completed the coursework required for admission. Visit admissions.ucmerced.edu/transfer/major-preparation-schools to review the requirements. If the major you’re interested in isn’t available through the Count Me In Program, you can submit a late application appeal. Please note you may need to pay an application fee if you do not qualify for a fee waiver.
-
How much will it cost to be considered for admission through this offer?
There is no admission application fee to add UC Merced to your application through the Count Me In online submission process.
-
Are there any other costs?
If you decide to enroll, all other regular costs are applicable. These costs include a deposit to submit your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR), a housing deposit (if applicable), and orientation fees. Other regular fees can be seen at financialaid.ucmerced.edu/cost-attendance.
-
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. Students who do not meet the conditions will lose their offer of admission.
-
If I have questions, how do I get in touch with you?
Call us at (209) 228-7178. You can also email admissions@ucmerced.edu or visit admissions.ucmerced.edu.
