Following these steps can help you successfully navigate your financial aid journey!
Application
The first step you'll need to take to evaluate your financial aid eligibility is to apply for financial aid! You can apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) . Both applications open on October 1 each year. The priority filing deadline is March 2.
You can also submit the Continuing Student Scholarship Application for consideration for an institutional scholarship, also due March 2 each year. If you're planning to attend Summer Session at another UC or certain summer programs, complete the Summer Session Financial Aid Application. Access both applications on the Financial Aid Applications page .
If you need financial aid, start your financial aid application here .
Verification
After applying for financial aid, you may be selected for a process called Verification. This means that you may be required to submit further documentation to verify your financial aid eligibility. Stay on track by checking the Student Checklist and email in your UC Merced Connect portal frequently. Be sure to submit your documentation by the June 1st deadline.
Direct Costs
Once you've received your financial aid package and completed the verification process, you can determine your direct-costs.
The Undergraduate Affordability Tool is an online tool in which you can determine if you'll owe a balance or receive a refund once financial aid is applied to your student account.
Watch a video explaining how the Undergraduate Affordability Tool works and how to complete it .
Loans
Loans are financial aid awards that require repayment with interest under varying terms and conditions. You can learn about the types of loans we offer.
In order for your loans to disburse to your student account, you must complete the following steps:
- Complete a Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling
- Ask your parents to apply for a Parent PLUS loan (if applicable)
- Accept or decline your loans in the MyFinancialAid section of UC Merced Connect
Disbursement
Any authorized financial aid will be disbursed to your student account 10 days before instruction begins. If you're due to receive a refund and would like it deposited into your bank account, you can sign up for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). If you owe a balance and would like to split payments into smaller amounts, you can enroll in the Deferred Payment Plan (DPP). Make these changes at least two weeks before the disbursement date to allow for processing time.
Learn more about financial aid disbursement.
