UC Merced is expanding its Merced Automatic Admission Program (MAAP) to students in Shasta County, creating a direct pathway for eligible students to secure guaranteed admission.
Through new agreements with Shasta Union High School District and Fall River Joint Unified School District, students who meet the program's academic requirements can receive an early guarantee of admission to UC Merced. Leaders from UC Merced and both districts formally signed the agreements during a ceremony in Redding.
"These partnerships reflect our shared commitment to expanding college access and creating clear pathways for students to pursue higher education," said Scott Hagg, vice chancellor of enrollment management at UC Merced. "By working together, we can help more students see themselves at UC Merced and provide them with the support, information and opportunities they need to achieve their educational goals."
Students scheduled to graduate in spring 2027 will be the first eligible to participate under the agreements. To qualify, students must complete at least 15 yearlong A-G courses required for UC first-year admission with a grade of C or better and earn a GPA of at least 3.0. Students can apply to MAAP in the fall of their senior year and may select any UC Merced major.
Participation in MAAP waives application fees, provides a scholarship of up to $3,000 annually for up to four years. This year's application deadline is Sept. 30.
Eligible students will be notified of their MAAP status and next steps by Nov. 1, giving them greater certainty about their college options early in their senior year.
The partnership was made possible with support from The McConnell Foundation, which has helped UC Merced build connections with educational and community partners throughout Shasta County. The foundation has been instrumental in supporting the university's outreach efforts and raising awareness of opportunities available to students in the region.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for more of our students to attend a high-ranking, high-quality university that understands how to support rural students," said David Tanner, director of college success at The McConnell Foundation. "I applaud the vision of UC Merced in bringing the Merced Automatic Admission Program to Shasta County. Thank you to the administrators of Shasta Union High School District and Fall River Joint Unified School District for partnering with UC Merced."
To learn more about the MAAP partnership and the program's complete requirements, visit the MAAP webpage .
Public Information Officer
