As a student at the University of California, Merced, finding the right housing option is crucial for a comfortable and successful academic experience. UC Merced offers a range of student housing options, each designed to meet the diverse needs of its students. From traditional residence halls to apartment-style living, students can choose from various options that cater to their lifestyle, budget, and academic goals. In this article, we will explore the different student housing options available at UC Merced, highlighting their features, amenities, and benefits.
Key Points
- UC Merced offers a variety of student housing options, including traditional residence halls, apartment-style living, and theme housing.
- Each housing option provides unique features, amenities, and benefits, such as proximity to campus, community engagement, and academic support.
- Students can choose from different housing options based on their lifestyle, budget, and academic goals.
- UC Merced's student housing options are designed to foster a sense of community, academic success, and personal growth.
- Students can apply for housing through the UC Merced housing portal, and assignments are made based on a variety of factors, including academic year, major, and lifestyle preferences.
Traditional Residence Halls

UC Merced’s traditional residence halls offer a classic college experience, with shared rooms, community bathrooms, and a range of amenities. These halls are designed to foster a sense of community and provide students with opportunities to engage with their peers and residence life staff. Traditional residence halls are a great option for first-year students, as they provide a supportive environment that helps students transition to college life. Some of the traditional residence halls at UC Merced include:
- Valley Terraces: A freshman-focused community that offers a supportive environment and academic resources.
- Canyon Place: A community that emphasizes community engagement, leadership, and personal growth.
- Sierra Terraces: A community that focuses on academic success, wellness, and sustainability.
Apartment-Style Living
UC Merced’s apartment-style living options offer students a more independent living experience, with private bedrooms, shared kitchens, and living areas. These apartments are designed for students who prefer a more autonomous lifestyle, while still being part of a vibrant campus community. Apartment-style living options are available for upper-division students, graduate students, and students with families. Some of the apartment-style living options at UC Merced include:
- Half Dome: A community that offers two- and three-bedroom apartments, with a focus on community engagement and academic success.
- Mariposa Grove: A community that provides one- and two-bedroom apartments, with a focus on sustainability and wellness.
- Summit Hall: A community that offers studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments, with a focus on independence and flexibility.
| Residence Hall | Room Type | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Valley Terraces | Shared rooms | Community bathrooms, laundry facilities, study lounges |
| Canyon Place | Shared rooms | Community bathrooms, kitchenettes, recreation rooms |
| Sierra Terraces | Shared rooms | Community bathrooms, study lounges, outdoor recreation areas |
| Half Dome | Private bedrooms | Shared kitchens, living areas, laundry facilities |
| Mariposa Grove | Private bedrooms | Shared kitchens, living areas, community garden |
| Summit Hall | Private bedrooms | Shared kitchens, living areas, fitness center |

Theme Housing

UC Merced’s theme housing options offer students the opportunity to live with others who share similar interests, hobbies, or academic pursuits. Theme housing options are designed to foster a sense of community and provide students with opportunities to engage with their peers and residence life staff. Some of the theme housing options at UC Merced include:
- STEM Community: A community that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with a focus on academic success and career development.
- Arts and Culture Community: A community that celebrates the arts, with a focus on creativity, self-expression, and community engagement.
- Sustainability Community: A community that emphasizes environmental sustainability, with a focus on reducing waste, conserving energy, and promoting eco-friendly practices.
Application and Assignment Process
Students can apply for housing through the UC Merced housing portal, and assignments are made based on a variety of factors, including academic year, major, and lifestyle preferences. Students are encouraged to apply early, as housing assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis. The application process typically opens in January, and students can expect to receive their housing assignment in May or June.
What is the deadline to apply for housing at UC Merced?
+The deadline to apply for housing at UC Merced varies depending on the academic year and student status. Students are encouraged to apply early, as housing assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I request a specific roommate or housing assignment?
+Yes, students can request a specific roommate or housing assignment through the UC Merced housing portal. However, assignments are made based on a variety of factors, including academic year, major, and lifestyle preferences, and are not guaranteed.
What amenities are included in UC Merced's student housing options?
+UC Merced's student housing options include a range of amenities, such as community bathrooms, laundry facilities, study lounges, kitchens, and living areas. Some housing options also include additional amenities, such as fitness centers, community gardens, and recreation rooms.
Meta description suggestion: “Discover the various student housing options available at UC Merced, including traditional residence halls, apartment-style living, and theme housing. Learn about the features, amenities, and benefits of each option and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle, budget, and academic goals.” (149 characters)