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Returning Students

This page highlights the resources, supports, and community connections available to students returning to school after taking time away from their education. Whether you paused for work, family, military, or personal reasons, the TRV is here to help you re-engage with campus and succeed academically, socially, and personally

What is a Returning Student?

A Returning Student (sometimes referred to as “reinstated” or “re-entry”) is someone coming back to UC Merced after a leave of absence, academic dismissal, or any period away from the university.

Admission Requirements

For detailed information on Returning Admissions Requirements, please visit the Admissions Reinstatement page here.

Degree Completion Program

UC Merced’s Degree Completion Program offers flexible pathways for former UC or transfer students to finish their bachelor’s in the School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Arts, whether enrolling part- or full-time, with personalized academic and financial advising, credit review, and access to scholarships and support services For more detailed information on the program, please visit the DCP page here.

Re-Entry Resources & Support

  • Coffee & Tea with the TRV

    • Coffee & Tea with the TRV is a pop-up advising and community event hosted in partnership with DCP, designed to support re-entry and returning students, and open to all UC Merced students. This welcoming space offers students the opportunity to connect with advisors from DCP and SSHA while enjoying coffee, tea, snacks, and low-stress creative activities. Students can drop in to relax, ask questions, and participate in activities such as vision board making, coloring, and bead crafting, creating a supportive, casual environment to recharge, connect, and access helpful campus resources.

    • Spring 2026 Event Dates: 

      • Wednesday, February 11th, 12:00PM - 2:00PM

      • Wednesday, Feburary 25th, 12:00PM - 2:00PM

      • Wednesday, March 11th, 12:00PM - 2:00PM

      • Tuesday, March 31st, 1:00PM - 4:00PM 

      • Wednesday, April 22nd, 12:00PM - 2:00PM

      • Tuesday, May 5th, 11:00AM - 1:00PM

                              *Note, all events held in the Commuter Lounge, Sentinel Rock RM 145*

To learn more about additional support services, click here!