University of California-Merced Overview

University of California-Merced is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Merced, CA. It has an enrollment of 8,321 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 86.60%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $10,751. Tuition is $13,657.00 without financial aid.

University of California-Merced is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At University of California-Merced, 78.76% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

University of California-Merced has a student-to-faculty ratio of 19 to 1.

University of California-Merced Website

University of California-Merced Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 86.60%.

SAT or ACT scores are neither required nor recommended

• The average SAT score was unreported for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was unreported for the incoming class to 2023.

University of California-Merced Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $10,751. The in-state tuition is $13,657.00. Out-of-state tuition is $43,411.00

The average tuition is:

• $8,370, when family income is less than $30,000

• $9,274, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $11,997, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $15,853, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $26,004, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 25.11% of students received a federal student loan and 63.03% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $43,411.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

University of California-Merced Net Price Calculator

University of California-Merced Majors/Salaries

University of California-Merced has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at University of California-Merced here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Biomedical/Medical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,729
• Computer Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $55,286
• Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,721
• Mechanical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $51,392
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,391
• Cognitive Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,960
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,697
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,353
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,000
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,554
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,228
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,937
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $14,442

University of California-Merced Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at University of California-Merced

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.08%
• Asian: 19.43%
• Black: 4.40%
• Hispanic: 57.45%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.41%
• Non-resident alien: 5.98%
• Two or more races: 3.35%
• Unknown: 0.77%
• White: 8.12%

At University of California-Merced, 2.32% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

University of California-Merced Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at University of California-Merced?

The University of California-Merced is a relatively new university, having been founded in 2005. However, the university has a growing sense of school spirit, and students are enthusiastic about being a part of this new and upcoming university. The university has a strong athletic program and actively participates in NCAA Division III athletics. The campus also has a variety of clubs and organizations that help students get involved and feel connected to their school community. Overall, while the sense of school spirit at UC Merced may not be as strong as at some larger and older universities, there is a growing sense of pride and excitement among students and alumni at the university.

What are some popular extracurriculars at University of California-Merced?

At the University of California-Merced, some popular extracurricular activities include participating in student-led organizations like the Student Government Association (SGA), joining clubs that align with personal interests ranging from academic organizations to cultural groups, volunteering through the UC Merced Civic Engagement Center, and participating in intramural sports. The campus also has opportunities to conduct undergraduate research, explore the outdoors with the Wilderness Education Center, participate in community service events through the SERVE 209 program, and attend a variety of events and performances put on by the University’s various arts and culture programs.

How are the food choices at University of California-Merced?

The University of California-Merced offers a variety of food options for its students. There are several dining locations on campus, including a cafe, a dining hall, and a convenience store. The dining hall features multiple stations, such as a sushi bar, salad bar, grill, and international food options. Additionally, there are vegetarian and vegan options available. The campus also hosts food trucks and pop-up food events, providing even more choices for students. Overall, students at UC Merced have a good selection of food options available to them.

Is there Greek life at University of California-Merced?

Yes, the University of California-Merced offers Greek life on campus. There are a total of four fraternities and two sororities on campus, which are overseen by the Office of Student Life. They include Delta Lambda Psi, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Theta Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi, and Sigma Omega Nu. Greek life provides students the opportunity to become involved in various social, philanthropic, and educational activities, and offers a way to network and connect with other students who share similar interests.

What is University of California-Merced known for?

The University of California-Merced is known for its high-quality academic programs in areas such as engineering, natural sciences, and social sciences. It is a public research university located in Merced, California, that is part of the prestigious University of California system. The university is known for its focus on sustainability, and its commitment to conducting research that addresses some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, water resources, and human health. Additionally, UC-Merced is known for its strong support for studying abroad and a diverse student body.

What are the most popular school clubs at University of California-Merced?

The University of California-Merced has a variety of school clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests. The most popular school clubs at the University of California-Merced include the following: 1. Greek Life organizations 2. Club sports teams like basketball and soccer teams 3. Academic clubs such as the Pre-Health Society, Pre-Law Society, and Engineers Without Borders 4. Performing arts clubs such as the Mariachi and Bollywood dance team 5. Cultural clubs representing various races and ethnicities such as Hmong American Student Association and Latino Student Association 6. Student government and advocacy groups like ASUCM and the California Public Interest Research Group (CALPIRG) It’s worth noting that there are also many other clubs on campus that students can join based on their unique interests, such as recreational clubs, photography club, and environmental organizations, among others.

Is the campus at University of California-Merced safe?

Yes, the campus at University of California-Merced is generally considered safe. The school has a campus police department that provides 24-hour protection and law enforcement services. That being said, like any campus or city, there are risks associated with being in an urban environment, so it’s important to take necessary precautions, such as walking with a friend at night and keeping valuables out of sight. Overall, UC Merced has a strong commitment to campus safety and security, and continuously works to improve its safety measures and emergency response plans.