Students are our focus at Merced College. We set high standards to encourage students to reach their potential
in a nurturing environment. Merced College is a leader in innovative instruction and cultural activities. We value and respect all members of our community and diversity is a strength of our institution. We are known by the success of our students.
School Highlights
Merced College serves 12,472 students (40% of students are full-time).
The college's student-teacher ratio of 41:1 is lower than the state community college average of 44:1.
Minority enrollment is 82% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the state average of 77%.
Quick Facts (2026)
Enrollment: 12,472 students
In-state tuition: $1,138
Out-state tuition: $5,890
Acceptance Rate: 52%
Student-teacher ratio: 41:1
Minority enrollment: 82%
Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in less than 4 years)
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
The public in-state tuition of $1,138 is less than the state average of $1,236. The in-state tuition has stayed relatively flat over four years.
The public out-state tuition of $5,890 is less than the state average of $6,577. The out-state tuition has declined by 20% over four years.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a college search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.
Median Debt for Graduates
n/a
$10,500
Median Debt for Dropouts
n/a
$6,272
Acceptance Rate
52%
81%
Source: 2025 (or latest year available) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) , School Administrators
School Notes
School Mascot: Blue Devil
Merced College was founded in 1962 and offers students the
opportunity to obtain an associate degree, or to transfer academic
credits to California State universities or the University of
California. The College offers vocational certificates in various
programs. Merced College serves all students who live in the
college district. The Merced Community College District is composed
of most of Merced County, the area of the Chowchilla Union High
School District in Madera County, and the Dos Palos Joint
Elementary School District. The Governing Board is made up of seven
elected members. Merced College is fully accredited by the Western
Association of Schools and Colleges, and is approved by the State
Department of Education to train veterans under provisions of the
G.I. Bill of Rights, and by the United States Immigration Service.
The college offers a lower division program consisting of courses
paralleling those of four-year colleges and universities, the
credits for which are transferable to all other accredited colleges
and universities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Merced College cost?
Merced College's tuition is approximately $1,138 for In-State students and $5,890 for Out-State students.
