Reminders
New students should be registered in at least 12, but we recommend 15 units by Aug 1.
Visit our admitted student website for step-by-step videos or contact the Students First Center for help.
DON'T FORGET TO REGISTER AND ATTEND
This is also an opportunity to get help and ask questions about next steps.
Upcoming Webinars
HEALTH INSURANCE & UNIVERSITY MUST-DOs
Thursday, July 9 6:30 to 7:30 P.M. PDT
In this session, we’ll walk you through UC Merced’s health insurance requirement and the steps you need to complete before fall. We’ll also cover student rights, including FERPA, and explain how to avoid double health coverage—which could save you money and unnecessary hassles as you start at UC Merced. Plus, attendees who stay for the full session will be entered to win dorm room essentials (items, such as a mini fridge, blanket set, slippers, and more from the UC Merced Bookstore).
THINK BIGGER: STUDY ABROAD FROM DAY ONE
Thursday, July 30 6:30 to 7:30 P.M. PDT
Start your UC Merced journey by thinking bigger about your education. Planning for study abroad early gives students more options, makes it easier to schedule, and allows more time to find funding. In this webinar, students and families will learn how study abroad can be part of the plan from day one. We’ll explore program options, break down how financial aid and scholarships make it affordable, and highlight the academic, career, and personal benefits of studying abroad. You’ll leave with a clear list of next steps to help you get started.
It’s summer vacation for many of you and we hope you are out exploring or taking on new adventures. But, don’t forget to stay connected with UC Merced and keep up to date with important tasks.
We are excited about the start of the semester next month! There is so much happening on campus this year, and we can't wait for you to be a part of it!
Move-in Days for new students who are living in on-campus residence halls will take place between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19 through Saturday, Aug. 22. Students will self-schedule their move-in date and time through the housing portal starting July 1, 2026. Check the fall housing page to learn more.
We want to ensure you have a good life balance while you’re starting your new academic journey and learning your way around campus. In this newsletter, we’ll talk about a number of free physical and mental health services available to you, and we hope you will take advantage of them. We strive to instill a sense of security and well-being for the entire community, from our various wellness services to the emergency blue lights around campus.
Just one more newsletter left after this one, then we will see you on campus in August!
It’s summer vacation for many of you and we hope you are out exploring or taking on new adventures. But, don’t forget to stay connected with UC Merced and keep up to date with important tasks.
We are excited about the start of the semester next month! There is so much happening on campus this year, and we can't wait for you to be a part of it!
Move-in Days for new students who are living in on-campus residence halls will take place between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19 through Saturday, Aug. 22. Students will self-schedule their move-in date and time through the housing portal starting July 1, 2026. Check the fall housing page to learn more.
We want to ensure you have a good life balance while you’re starting your new academic journey and learning your way around campus. In this newsletter, we’ll talk about a number of free physical and mental health services available to you, and we hope you will take advantage of them. We strive to instill a sense of security and well-being for the entire community, from our various wellness services to the emergency blue lights around campus.
Just one more newsletter left after this one, then we will see you on campus in August!
Aug. 2026
Attend Orientation (various dates in August - enrollment required.)
July 15
Official test scores due in the Office of Admissions
July 27
Deadline for Student Health Insurance waiver application by 4:30 p.m.
Mandatory Sexual Violence Prevention Training and AlcoholEdu course open for incoming students. Find out more: https://ethics.ucmerced.edu/undergraduate-training
aug. 19
Fall 2026 fee payment deadline/Fall 2026 Deferred Payment Plan (DPP) Installment #1 due
aug. 19-22
Move-in to on-campus residence halls
aug. 21
New Student Festivities begin
aug. 26
Deadline to comply with UC Immunization Requirement
aug. 26
Fall 2026 Instruction begins
Opportunity for Incoming Undocumented Scholars
The UC Merced Office for Services for Undocumented Students annually provides the Knowledge Empowers You (KEY) Program for all new incoming undocumented scholars and their families. The KEY Program is intended to assist undocumented scholars and their families through the transition to UC Merced. In addition, the program also introduces the array of programs and services available through the Office for Services for Undocumented Students to support undocumented scholars during their tenure at the University. The KEY Program will be virtual and presented in two parts for Scholars. A scholar need only choose one session - REMEMBER each session is in two parts on two separate days. Parent/Family Members participating in the KEY Program need only register for one 4-hour session. There is no fee for the KEY Program. To view dates and to register, please go HERE.
CatCard is not only your Student ID card, but critically, is also your way to access daily campus services:
- Your Residence Hall
- CatTrack Buses
- Meal Plans & Catdollars
- The Campus Gym
- Check out Library Books
- Check in at Campus Events
While we'll have opportunities to take your photo on-site, it will delay your CatCard and access to campus services. To avoid the lines and get immediate access (and ensure you avoid a bad hair day), you can submit your photo in advance! Please submit a photo for your CatCard online by Friday, August 7th, and it will be waiting for you when you arrive for Move-In.
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