FOCUS FORWARD ➜
UC Merced is the first American research university of the 21st century, where cool, smart, driven people gather to learn, grow and solve the problems of tomorrow.
Big global impact. WORLD-CHANGING RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES.
Small environmental footprint. THE NATION'S FIRST CARBON-NEUTRAL CAMPUS.
Great financial support. AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE.
BUILT FOR CONNECTION
The campus is designed with intention — from lakeside views to eco-certified buildings to community connection through Living Learning Communities. Events like Cowtopia and Treats N' Beats bring fun, while quiet surroundings help you stay focused.
WE MEAN GREEN
UC Merced is the first public research university certified carbon neutral — and it shows. From LEED Platinum buildings to cows managing our grasslands, sustainability is built into daily life. This is where you'll see the future come to life.
YOUR BASECAMP TO EVERYWHERE
Merced puts you within reach of Yosemite, San Francisco and the Sierra foothills — but it's also a place you'll want to stay. With a growing downtown, local food trucks, and clear views of the Milky Way, it's the perfect blend of small-town calm and big-world access.
“This campus really showed me what 'home away from home' is like.”
Braydon Hart '25Computer Science and Engineering
GET READY TO APPLY
Fill out your application and get ready to submit it! Test scores aren't required, and you could qualify for an application fee waiver.
EXPLORE CAMPUS LOCATIONS IN 360°
CAN UC YOURSELF HERE?
VISIT TO FIND OUT
CAN UC YOURSELF HERE?
Request info now about academics, student life, financial aid and more, and discover if UC Merced is the right fit.
COLLEGE TAKES YOU FURTHER
Bachelor's degree holders have more career opportunities, better health, a broader worldview and higher earning potential — particularly with research and hands-on experience on their resume.
