Continue Your UC Merced Journey
APPLY HERE by February 15, 2026.
UC Merced is piloting a new Direct Admission pathway that allows high-performing undergraduate seniors to move seamlessly from a Bachelor’s degree into select Master’s programs for Fall 2026.
This pilot program is designed to make it easier for motivated students to continue their education, deepen their expertise, and accelerate their professional and research goals without barriers.
Why this pathway?
Through Direct Admission, eligible UC Merced seniors can:
- Apply through a streamlined process
- Use just one letter of recommendation
- And, if you meet the academic criteria, be automatically approved for admission
This pathway recognizes the strength of UC Merced students and the close relationships they have built with faculty and programs on our campus.
Why pursue a Master's degree?
A master’s degree is an investment that often leads to higher earnings and stronger career stability. National data show that workers with a master’s degree and higher earn 20% more on average, and have lower unemployment, than those with only a bachelor’s degree. Beyond earnings, a master’s degree can unlock advanced roles, leadership opportunities, and specialized careers that are often not accessible with a bachelor’s degree alone.
What programs can UC Merced seniors apply to?
The Master's programs participating in this pilot include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
- Materials and Biomaterials Science and Engineering
- Environmental Systems
- Management of Complex Systems
- Bioengineering
If an applicant qualifies to apply to several programs. How many can they apply to?
Each applicant is only allowed to apply to one program. For example, a BioE major qualifies for streamlined admission to EECS Master's program and automatic admission to MBSE and BioE Master's programs. They have to pick one from EECS, BioE and MBSE to apply to.
Who can apply?
All Seniors will be eligible to apply based on:
- Their undergraduate major
- The participating Master’s programs
While we welcome applications from all seniors, only those in select Master's programs qualify for "automatic admission" if they have GPA of 3.5 or above. See below.
What does “automatic admission” mean?
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Applicants who meet the published GPA threshold are eligible for automatic admission.This allows strong students to move quickly and confidently into graduate study. Applicants must check their eligibility in the table below to verify which programs they qualify for automatic admission.
What application materials are needed?
Qualified students will need to submit the following when they apply using the link:
- Their UC Merced transcript
- One letter of recommendation
No other material is required for UC Merced seniors from the qualifying majors with GPA of 3.0 or more.
What happens after an applicant is admitted?
- Complete their Bachelor’s degree
- Maintain good academic standing
- And meet University and Graduate Division requirements
Once these conditions are met, students may begin their Master’s program in the following semester.
Can an admission offer be withdrawn?
Yes. As with all graduate admissions, the University may deny, rescind, or revoke an offer if concerns arise related to:
- Academic performance
- Information in a recommendation letter
- Student records or University policies
- Degree completion or eligibility
What is the cost of attendance for a Master's program at UC Merced?
Check UC Merced Fees and Expenses for specific tuition/fee estimates, and be aware of total costs including living expenses.
Does Direct Admission include funding?
No. Admission through this pathway does not guarantee financial support, assistantships, or fellowships.
Is any assistance available to finance graduate education at UC Merced?
Yes. A key step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), followed by perusing through the different loan options listed here.
In particular, a graduate student attending UC Merced may be eligible to apply and receive a Grad PLUS Loan.
Can an applicant defer if they are admitted?
Deferrals are not guaranteed and depend on program and Graduate Division approval.
Important Admissions Information
Direct Admission is a special pilot pathway designed to expand access to graduate study for UC Merced students. While the process is streamlined, all admissions decisions remain subject to review and final approval by the admitting graduate program and the Graduate Division.
The University of California, Merced reserves the right to deny, rescind, or revoke an offer of admission if information becomes available that raises concerns about a student’s academic readiness, professional conduct, or eligibility for graduate study. This may include information from recommendation letters, academic records, or University files.
All offers are conditional upon completion of degree requirements, continued academic performance, and compliance with University policies.
Questions? Email the Chair of the program of interest:
