Overview
UC Merced opened in 2005 as the tenth and newest campus of the University of California system, the first new American research university built in the 21st century. Established to expand access to higher education in California's underserved Central Valley, it quickly achieved R2 and later R1 research classification despite its youth. The campus emphasizes interdisciplinary research clusters in health, environment, and society, and has become known for its high proportion of first-generation and Pell Grant-eligible students achieving strong outcomes.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Merced, California |
| Founded | 2005 |
| Total students | 9,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 20:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 88% |
| Graduation rate | 68% |
| Average starting salary | $55,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $14,800 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $44,600 |
| Room & board | $16,500 |
| Average financial aid | $18,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 990-1220 |
| ACT range | 17-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.60 |
| Regular deadline | November 30 |
Top Programs
- Biological Sciences
- Psychology
- Management & Business Economics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Public Health
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.