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 14,859 students (34% of students are full-time).
The college's student:teacher ratio of 24:1 is lower than the state community college average of 32:1.
Minority enrollment is 82% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the state average of 77%.
Quick Stats (2025)
Enrollment: 14,859 students
In-state tuition: $1,138
Out-state tuition: $5,890
Student:teacher ratio: 24:1
Minority enrollment: 82%
Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
The student population of Merced College has grown by 32% over five years.
The student:teacher ratio of 24:1 has increased from 17:1 over five years.
The Merced College diversity score of 0.55 is less than the state average of 0.70. The school's diversity has declined by 11% over five years.
Total Enrollment
14,859 students
2,311 students
Student : Teacher Ratio
24:1
32:1
# Full-Time Students
4,998 students
1,232 students
# Part-Time Students
9,861 students
8,299 students
# Enrollment Undergraduate
148 students
240 students
# Full-Time Undergraduate Students
4,998 students
1,155 students
# Full-Time Graduate Students
n/a
63 students
# Part-Time Undergraduate Students
9,861 students
8,457 students
# Part-Time Graduate Students
n/a
10 students
Total Dormitory Capacity
n/a
140 students
% American Indian/Alaskan
1%
n/a
% Asian
9%
13%
% Hispanic
64%
47%
% Black
3%
7%
% White
18%
23%
% Hawaiian
n/a
1%
% Two or more races
4%
5%
% Non Resident races
n/a
1%
% Unknown races
2%
3%
Diversity Score
0.55
0.70
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in less than 4 years)
0.2919%
0.4221%
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in 4 years or more than 4 years)
n/a
0.4304%
Average Graduate Earnings (10 Years)
$29,900
$34,700
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 $6,547. The out-state tuition has declined by 7% over four years.
In-State Tuition Fees
$1,138
$1,236
Out-State Tuition Fees
$5,890
$6,547
% Students Receiving Some Financial Aid
84%
85%
Median Debt for Graduates
n/a
$10,500
Median Debt for Dropouts
n/a
$6,239
Acceptance Rate
n/a
92%
Source: 2024 (or latest year available) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
School Notes
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.
What is Merced College's ranking?
Merced College ranks among the top 20% of community college in California for: Least expensive tuition.
Nearby Schools
The nearest community college to Merced College is Modesto Junior College (36.6 miles away)
From business and healthcare to technology and skilled trades, the article showcases the breadth of options available to students seeking to enhance their knowledge, develop new skills, or pursue career advancement.
This comprehensive guide explains what a community college is, its history, and its role in higher education. It covers the types of programs offered, differences from four-year colleges, benefits of attending, and important considerations for prospective students, providing valuable insights for those exploring educational options.
Quick Stats (2025)
Enrollment: 14,859 students
In-state tuition: $1,138
Out-state tuition: $5,890
Student:teacher ratio: 24:1
Minority enrollment: 82%
Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
For California public community colleges, the average tuition is approximately $1,236 per year for in-state students and $6,547 for out-of-state students. For private community colleges, the average yearly tuition is approximately $20,392 per year. Read more about average community college tuition costs across the country.
