International Student Application Information

Merced College welcomes your application as an international student. Our staff will make every effort to assist you. Our admission requirements conform to the regulations of the U.S. Government for issuing F-1 student visas. If you have any questions regarding enrollment and/or completing the form, please contact our International Student Services Office at (209) 384-6381, or e-mail us at internationalstudent@mccd.edu.

To be accepted for admission as an international student at Merced College, you must be able to speak, read, write and understand English at a level that will allow you to successfully complete college work. To verify your level, we ask that you pass the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with a minimum score of 450 paper-based exam,  or 45-46 on the Internet Based Test (the equivalent of ESL level 109), IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score 4.5 or better. This requirement may be waived if you come from a country that uses English as the primary language (click here for list of countries) in its educational system. Note: If your TOEFL score is less than 450/45-46 you may register in Merced College English Language Institute (MCELI) classes.

Admission Requirements

1. Complete Merced College International Student Application form with your passport size photo.
2. A processing fee of $50.00 U.S. Currency (do not send cash) is required with the filing of your application.
3. An official affidavit of financial support to show proof (such as a recent bank letter referencing your parents or sponsor) that you have sufficient finances to pay for your tuition and living expenses for one year. ($13,000 minimum) The minimum enrollment of 12 units, books, insurance and living expenses plus tuition and fees bring the typical student’s total costs to approximately $12,260 - $13,000 per calendar year.
4. A health examination from a physician is required and must include current immunization dates and verified tuberculosis clearance.
5. An autobiographical essay (approximately one page) that describes your education, special interests, reason for applying to Merced College, and your educational goals after completing your studies at Merced College.
6. A letter of recommendation (academic) which supports your educational achievements and goals.
7. Graduation from a secondary school that is equivalent to an American high school. Official records and transcripts, translated into English, must accompany your application. A transfer clearance form is required if you are presently attending another educational institution in America.
8. Official college transcripts from all U.S. colleges or universities if you have previously attended.
9. Coverage for health insurance. In the United States health care is expensive, and there are no free medical facilities. Merced College requires all International Students (F-1 Visa) to have health insurance. Students must provide proof, in English, of existing health insurance which is equivalent to the Merced College supported International Student health and accident policy or purchase insurance through our office upon arrival. Proof of any existing health insurance must be provided prior to the time of registration. Insurance coverage for the year through our office is $898.00. For more information please go to www.studentinsuranceusa.com