Public
Accredited · Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Merced, California
39.2% Acceptance Rate
University of California-Merced — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
39.2%Acceptance Rate
3.55Avg GPA
1050Avg SAT
$37,098Annual Cost
$64,368Grad Salary
59%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
39.2%
Avg GPA
3.55
Avg SAT
1050
Selectivity
Selective
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
SAT Middle 50%
1010–1080
Avg Net Price
$12,744
Need-Based Aid
59% receive Pell
University of California-Merced is a modern, research-intensive campus of the prestigious University of California system. Known for its commitment to interdisciplinary learning, sustainability, and technological innovation, the university offers high-value undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields like engineering, sciences, and the humanities. With its state-of-the-art facilities, supportive faculty, and focus on collaborative research, UC Merced provides an elite and transformative educational experience for students aiming for professional and academic leadership.
University of California-Merced Acceptance Rate
University of California-Merced is a well-known institution. It has a selective admission process. The acceptance rate of University of California-Merced is 39.2%. This means that 39 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Selective Enrollment: Applicants need a solid GPA and proof of academic growth.
- Holistic Balance: Strong recommendations and community involvement are highly valued.
Selectivity at a Glance
Selective
Selectivity scale: Selective — 39.2% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
If your GPA is slightly below the institutional average, you can remain competitive by scoring well on standardized tests and showcasing leadership in co-curricular activities.
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.55 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.35 – 3.54
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.10
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
University of California-Merced Application Deadlines & Admission Dates 2026
The application deadline for University of California-Merced is July 31 for Spring applicants, with additional plans listed below.
Key Admission Dates
⏳ 9 days left — Spring
Spring
July 31
Regular Decision (Fall)
December 1
💡 The scholarship deadline (2027/03/02 (FAFSA/California Dream Act priority)) often falls before the regular admission deadline. Submit your application and FAFSA early to be considered for maximum aid.
Deadlines are verified from official institutional sources but may change each cycle. Always confirm final dates on the official website.
UC Merced GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at UC Merced is 3.55. UC Merced is highly selective.
Mostly A's with a few B's will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.75-3.95 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.25 and 3.55, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
UC Merced GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at UC Merced utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.55, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.55 – 4.00
Target/Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.35 – 3.54
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.15 – 3.34
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.14
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- Newest UC campus, located in Merced, CA; part of the 10-campus UC system; $80 application fee per campus ($95 international/non-immigrant).
- UC application filing period for Fall 2027 entry: October 1-November 30, 2026; application itself opens August 1, 2026; no early action/decision, no rolling admission anywhere in the UC system.
- Admitted students must complete BOTH a Math and a Chemistry placement exam (for science/engineering/pre-health majors) opening March 16, 2026 with a priority deadline of May 31, 2026 - required before enrolling in intro math/calculus or chemistry courses.
- Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) requires a $250 deposit; deferment is possible via appeal for students who don't automatically qualify for a fee waiver.
- The Rigor Metric: At UC Merced, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at UC Merced
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of California-Merced's verified institutional data
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Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
University of California-Merced (UC Merced) Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Can I Get Into UC Merced Without SAT or ACT?
University of California-Merced does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
University of California-Merced Average SAT Score: 1050
The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of California-Merced is 1050 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1050 — Accessible
This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1050 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1080 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of California-Merced allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1010, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at UC Merced. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | - | - | - |
| SAT Reading | - | - | - |
| SAT Composite | 1050 | 1010 | 1080 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1010 then you are below most of the admitted students at UC Merced and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1080 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1050
Can I get into University of California-Merced (UC Merced) with a 1100 SAT?
With a 1100 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of California-Merced (UC Merced) are good but the admission staff at UC Merced tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for UC Merced
Selective Strategy: Competitive Positioning
At UC Merced, admissions officers seek reliable, high-achieving students. The goal is to be a top-tier applicant to trigger both admission and high-value merit aid.
Build PIQ selection around UC's 13 comprehensive review factors, not just "best stories"
UC Merced uses comprehensive review across 13 published factors (academic GPA/rigor, special talents, leadership, special circumstances, etc.), and UC's own admissions directors have stated the 8 Personal Insight Question prompts map directly onto those factors. Don't have a student pick their 4 of 8 PIQs (350 words each, fixed across all UC campuses applied to) purely on "which story do I like best" - instead map each of the 13 review factors against the student's available material first, then choose the 4 PIQs that collectively cover the WIDEST spread of factors rather than 4 essays that all demonstrate the same strength (e.g., four essays that all really just say "I'm a strong leader" in different settings).
Target the top-9%-of-class signal even though it isn't a hard guarantee at Merced specifically
UC Merced explicitly names being in the top 9% of a student's graduating class as a characteristic it values in review, tied to the statewide UC eligibility index. But unlike UC's most selective campuses, Merced is NOT auto-admit on top-9% status alone - it's one favorable signal within comprehensive review, not a guarantee. Counsel students with top-9% standing to still invest full effort in PIQs and "a-g" rigor rather than treating the ranking as a free pass, since Merced's holistic process weighs it alongside, not above, the rest of the file.
Treat the July 1 / July 15 post-admission transcript deadlines as a second, hard finish line
Getting admitted is not the end of the process: UC Merced requires FINAL official transcripts by July 1, 2026 and final official test scores (if submitted) by July 15, 2026 for Fall 2026 admits - missing these can result in the admission offer being RESCINDED outright. Any senior-year grade dip, course change, or "planned" course that doesn't get completed must be reported via the myCourseUpdates form by June 12, 2026. This is a real compliance cliff that catches students who treat "I got in" as the finish line rather than a conditional offer.
Use the no-test-score policy to commit fully to a-g rigor and PIQ quality instead of test prep
UC Merced will NOT consider SAT/ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes at all - not test-optional, fully test-blind. This means every hour a student might spend on SAT/ACT prep produces zero admissions value at Merced; redirect that time entirely into deepening "a-g" course rigor (4 years of math, 3+ years of science recommended beyond the minimum) and PIQ draft-revision cycles, which are the only two levers Merced's comprehensive review actually responds to.
Expert Insight:
Because the application is shared across all UC campuses, families often write generic PIQs aimed at "UC" broadly and assume they transfer equally well to every campus - but Merced's own admissions advice explicitly notes selection is NOT based on declared major for freshmen (unlike transfer applicants, where major preparation is central and changing majors post-admission "may not be possible"). A family treating Merced's freshman process like its more rigid transfer process, or assuming a "safety school" mentality means PIQs matter less here than at a more selective UC, both misjudge how comprehensive review actually operates at this campus.
UC Merced Profile
Full Name
University of California-Merced (UC Merced)
City
Merced
State
California
ZIP Code
95343-5603
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
Is a UC Merced Degree Worth It?
Getting into UC Merced can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. UC Merced offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
How much does a degree from UC Merced Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at University of California-Merced is $37,098. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of California-Merced is $12,744.
59% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 31.5 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to UC Merced and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At University of California-Merced, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist UC Merced as your choice in the form.
How much does a UC Merced Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $64,368. An average UC Merced graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of California-Merced. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faulkner University | Montgomery, AL | 1016 | 20 |
| University of West Alabama | Livingston, AL | 1015 | 20 |
| Central Baptist College | Conway, AR | 1022 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton | Morrilton, AR | 1020 | 20 |
| Williams Baptist University | Walnut Ridge, AR | 1018 | 19 |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver, CO | 1014 | 20 |
| Colorado State University Pueblo | Pueblo, CO | 1005 | 22 |
| Trinity Baptist College | Jacksonville, FL | 1007 | 20 |
| College of Coastal Georgia | Brunswick, GA | 1001 | 18 |
| Thomas University | Thomasville, GA | 1037 | 21 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of California-Merced. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville, AL | 1055 | 21 |
| Marion Military Institute | Marion, AL | 1043 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | Little Rock, AR | 1049 | 21 |
| Arkansas Tech University | Russellville, AR | 1050 | 21 |
| Southern Arkansas University Main Campus | Magnolia, AR | 1050 | 20 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of California-Merced. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Montgomery, AL | 1090 | 21 |
| University of South Alabama | Mobile, AL | 1119 | 23 |
| Spring Hill College | Mobile, AL | 1090 | 22 |
| Troy University | Troy, AL | 1086 | 22 |
| Tuskegee University | Tuskegee, AL | 1121 | 22 |
Degree Programs at UC Merced
Bachelor Degree Programs
Masters Degree Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About UC Merced Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $64,368 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $37,098 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
59.0% of students at this university receive a Pell Grant — free money that does not need to be repaid. Your chances of need-based aid are strong. Submit your FAFSA as early as possible and list this institution as your choice to be considered for maximum aid.
The acceptance rate of University of California-Merced is 39.2% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.55. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.25, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.25, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.15 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.55, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Admission to University of California-Merced is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1050 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1010–1080.
The application deadline for University of California-Merced is July 31 for Spring applicants.
The application fee for University of California-Merced is 80. Fee waivers may be available for eligible students.
The scholarship priority deadline is 2027/03/02 (FAFSA/California Dream Act priority). Submit your FAFSA before this date for maximum aid consideration.
Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
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