The University of California announced Monday that it is planning for a return to primarily in-person instruction systemwide starting in fall 2021. The announcement is intended to provide prospective and current students and their families time to understand the University’s goals and plans amid the uncertainties of the pandemic.

With robust research and COVID-19 vaccines soon becoming available to students, staff and faculty, the UC continues to prioritize the health and well-being of the University community and to remain vigilant in all critical prevention efforts.

“As the nation continues to make substantial progress battling the pandemic, preparations are currently underway to carefully return to in-person classes,” said President Michael V. Drake, M.D. “Current forecasts give us hope that in the fall our students can enjoy a more normal on-campus experience.”

Specific plans for resumption of fall classes, including additional safety measures and starting dates, will be announced by individual UC campuses as they continue to coordinate closely with local public health agencies and follow all local and state health guidelines.

In spite of dynamic conditions, the University understands the importance of communicating its plans as early as possible, as it stays flexible and nimble, to ensure students and their families have the latest information for decisions on enrollment, housing and other aspects of university life.

In line with the University’s plan, UC Merced is planning for a return to primarily in-person instruction systemwide starting in the fall. UC Merced is preparing to welcome more students back to residence halls, classrooms, laboratories, playing fields and dining halls, but will do so carefully and thoughtfully, making decisions based in research, best practices and information from public health officials.

UC Merced will communicate more details as they become available and continue to coordinate all planning with the Merced County Department of Public Health.