Chances of Getting Into University of California, Merced
Merced, California • Public University • #97 National • Founded 2005
UC Merced Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
UC Merced SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About University of California, Merced
UC Merced is the newest campus in the UC system and one of America's fastest-growing universities. Located in California's Central Valley, it provides UC-quality education with the highest admission rate in the system, making it an excellent gateway to the UC network.
Top Programs
What Makes UC Merced Unique
- Newest UC campus — modern facilities and architecture
- Highest acceptance rate in the UC system — genuine access
- Sierra Nevada Research Institute for environmental science
- Zero Net Energy commitment — among the greenest campuses
- Small campus feel with growing resources
UC Merced Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
UC Merced Application Deadlines
How to Get Into UC Merced: Admission Tips
UC application deadline is November 30
UC Merced is the most accessible UC — excellent option for UC-caliber education
Strong PIQs can compensate for lower GPA/scores
Research opportunities are readily available even for underclassmen
Growing rapidly — getting more competitive each year
The Brutal Truth About UC Merced Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 85% acceptance rate, UC Merced rejected over 4,500 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At UC Merced, having a 3.4 GPA and 1145 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. UC Merced doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if UC Merced genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 85%-acceptance-rate basket.
UC Merced Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at University of California, Merced?
University of California, Merced has an acceptance rate of 85% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 30,000+ applicants, approximately 2,200 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into UC Merced?
The average GPA of admitted students at University of California, Merced is 3.4. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.25, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for UC Merced?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted UC Merced students is 1050-1240. The average SAT score is 1145. For ACT, the range is 19-26 with an average of 23.
Is UC Merced hard to get into?
Yes, University of California, Merced is selective with an acceptance rate of just 85%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does UC Merced cost?
Tuition at University of California, Merced is $14,312 per year, with total cost of attendance at $36,000. However, 90% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $22,000+.
What are my chances of getting into UC Merced?
Your chances of getting into University of California, Merced depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 85% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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Popular Majors at UC Merced
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