Frequently Asked Questions
On this page:
- How do I check the status of my admission application?
- Who do I contact if I want to take a tour of UC Merced?
- How can I get in touch with an Admissions counselor?
- When can I apply to UC Merced?
- What are UC Merced's school codes?
- When will acceptance notices be sent out?
- When do I apply for financial aid?
- Can I change my major after I apply to UC Merced?
- Will I be able to graduate in 2 years?
- What if I miss the deadline to apply?
1. How do I check the status of my admission application?
You will receive an acknowledgment email that will notify you when you can begin checking your admission status.
2. Who do I contact if I want to take a tour of UC Merced?
Come visit us! Schedule a tour led by one of our friendly student tour guides.
3. How can I get in touch with an Admissions counselor?
You can reach us at admissions@ucmerced.edu or 209-228-7178. Get to know our staff, in advance.
4. When can I apply to UC Merced?
Beginning Fall 2025 application cycle, students may start and submit the fall application beginning Oct. 1st - Dec. 2nd. The Spring application is available and may be submitted from July 1st - July 31st. Visit our apply page for more information.
5. What are UC Merced's school codes?
Our financial aid code is 041271.
6. When will acceptance notices be sent out?
Fall admission decisions begin mid-March to end of April.
7. When do I apply for financial aid?
The filing period for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and California Dream Act application is Oct. 1st through March 2nd every year for the following fall semester. Since financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, students are encouraged to apply early in the filing period. At UC Merced, your FAFSA application also serves as your scholarship application. Students do not have to fill out more than a single form to apply for both local and federal funding.
8. Can I change my major after I apply to UC Merced?
Junior level transfer applicants are required to satisfy major preparation for admissions. Students should apply to the major preparation for admissions. Students should apply to the major they intend on completing. If you are undecided, see if you may be eligible for one of our Early Transfer Opportunities, which include an undeclared option.
9. Will I be able to graduate in 2 years?
There are many factors that contribute to the time it takes for an individual to graduate; including but not limited to: major, study habits and time management skills, major preparation, etc. At UC Merced our transfer students typically graduate in 2.4 years (18-19 data). For more information about student graduation rates and other student data, visit our Center for Instructional Effectiveness.
10. What if I miss the deadline to apply?
The Office of Admission has an established appeal committee composed of three unit staff members who review all cases. When submitting an appeal to a decision, please provide relevant information that may not have already been available. Information about how to appeal a decision is provided at admissions.ucmerced.edu/appeals.
