Skip to content

Why Summer Bridge?

Kick Start Your Degree Tuition-Free

The UC Merced Summer Bridge First Year Program is a no-cost program for students who have been identified as Pell Grant-eligible through their federal financial aid application and estimated expected family contribution. The participant costs listed below will be fully covered by a combination of financial aid, foundation support, and UC Merced's Student Success Initiative.

  • Tuition
  • Room and board (including meals) for the on-campus experience
  • Experiential learning activities and events
  • Books and supplies

In addition to these costs, students may need funds to cover personal and transportation expenses, which can be covered by additional financial aid awards or personal funds.

Enrollment in Summer Courses

Complete units that will provide you a head start on your major and general education requirements. Summer courses for 2023 are currently being determined, details are coming soon.

UC Merced will offer online academic support, including tutoring, office hours, and workshops to support your academic success.

On-Campus Experience

Throughout the Summer Bridge experience, students will participate in academic, social, and team-building activities and projects designed to develop the skills that will contribute to success at UC Merced.

Living on campus offers all the conveniences of independent living coupled with valuable support, including:

  • Learning and safety structures to facilitate student success
  • Rooming with other Summer Bridge participants
  • On-call Residence Life professionals and student staff members are available to assist 24 hours a day

Classroom with a professorGear Up for Success

Understand the requirements and expectations of being a student at a research institution and learn about resources available to support your success, including:

  • Individualized advising/mentoring meetings
  • Academic support workshops
  • Tutoring

Build Your Community

Build connections with other students, faculty, and staff members through activities intended to introduce you to the expectations and opportunities available to you at UC Merced, including:

Community Service Events

Summer Bridge offers several opportunities to get involved with the Merced community while having fun.

Health and Wellness

With our students' physical, mental, and social well-being in mind, we will have the opportunity for students to participate in activities related to mindfulness, meditation, and other activities. 

Social Events

Summer Bridge offers several activities outside class to help students unwind, connect, and recharge through fun shared experiences.

Workshops

We offer workshops on topics such as Money Management, Leadership Styles, Getting to know UC Merced, and more.

Notice: We recognize the fluidity of developments related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the measures taken in response to it at the global, national, local, and institutional levels. We want to assure you that the health and safety of Summer Bridge participants, faculty, and staff will remain our highest priority. For the most up-to-date information on current health guidelines, visit the Do Your Part website at doyourpart.ucmerced.edu.