The Graduate Resource Center has developed this checklist for new students who will be matriculating each fall. The first items are required of all students; the remainder are recommendations.
Required Items:
- Set up your UC Merced ID/Campus Account.
- Review and complete your Admissions Checklist via UC Merced Connect.
- Save the Date and Register for GROW beginning on August 15th.
- Complete new-hire paperwork on August 15th.
- Review your Transportation and Parking Services options.
- Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Graduate students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or immigrants should complete a FAFSA regardless of financial status or financial need.
- Complete the Statement of Intent to Register by the deadline as specified by your offer letter.
- Sign and return Summary of Financial Support (if applicable).
- Register for Classes. New students will register for classes before arriving for GROW. Please consult with your faculty advisor for questions regarding course registration.
- Understand your campus-based fees.
- Complete the Health Insurance Waiver, if necessary. A waiver is only necessary if you are opting OUT of the health insurance. If you are keeping the health insurance that your are automatically enrolled in, no action is necessary. Deadline to waive is July 28, 2025 by 11:59pm (PST).
- Get your UC Merced ID Card. New students will get their CatCard ID during GROW.
- Update your address in your academic record.
- Update your address in your payroll record.
- Student immunizations are required by campus. Please review the guidelines.
- International students review the Arrival Guide (The Arrival Guide also has helpful information for domestic students)
Staying Organized:
- Review financial planning information.
- Review the housing database and off-campus housing options.
- Order textbooks.
- Find directions to campus.
- Find out how to get to Merced from the local International Airports.
- Review child care and local school information.
- Get to know the Merced community.
- Get involved with the Graduate Student Association (GSA).
Things to Bring with You:
- Necessary documentation for Hiring Paperwork (see I-9 Form in hiring paperwork for acceptable documents).
Please contact the Graduate Resource Center with any questions or concerns regarding GROW or your transition to graduate study at UC Merced.
Upated July 2022
