University Of Arizona
Tucson, United States
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States
Founded
1885
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
54,384
Acceptance Rate
86%
Discover the University of Arizona: History & Overview
Discover the University of Arizona: History & Overview
The University of Arizona is a public land-grant research university in Tucson, Arizona, founded in 1885 by the 13th Arizona Territorial Legislature. It was the first university established in the Arizona Territory, predating Arizona statehood by 27 years. Today it serves over 54,000 students across 22 colleges and schools.
As Arizona's flagship institution and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, the university is classified as an R1 Doctoral University with very high research activity. The university delivered more than USD 1 billion in total research activity in fiscal year 2024, ranking among the top 20 public research institutions in the United States.
The University of Arizona is recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and has earned distinction for its programs in planetary sciences, optical sciences, management information systems, and public health. With two independently accredited medical schools in Tucson and Phoenix, the university continues to expand its impact on healthcare, scientific discovery, and community engagement.
Key Milestones
- 1885: Founded by the 13th Arizona Territorial Legislature as the first university in Arizona Territory.
- 1891: Enrollment officially began with 32 students and six faculty members housed in Old Main.
- 1937: Pioneered tree-ring research and opened the first laboratory for dendrochronology.
- 2021: Successfully completed the OSIRIS-REx mission, sampling an asteroid for the first time in U.S. history.
Academic Structure & Colleges
Academic Structure & Colleges
The University of Arizona offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs across 22 colleges and schools. Its academic structure spans disciplines from the sciences and engineering to the arts and health professions, providing students with diverse pathways to academic and professional success.
Eller College of Management
One of the top-ranked business schools in the nation, Eller is known for its programs in management information systems, entrepreneurship, and finance.
- Management Information Systems
- Finance
- Entrepreneurship
College of Engineering
Offers cutting-edge programs in aerospace, biomedical, and electrical engineering with strong ties to industry and research laboratories.
- Aerospace Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
College of Science
Home to leading programs in astronomy, planetary sciences, and geosciences, the College of Science drives groundbreaking research including NASA-funded missions.
- Planetary Sciences
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Geosciences
College of Medicine – Tucson
An accredited medical school offering MD programs with a focus on primary care, rural medicine, and biomedical research in the Southwest.
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Biomedical Sciences
- Public Health
Wyant College of Optical Sciences
The only degree-granting college of optics in the United States, offering programs in optical engineering, photonics, and imaging science.
- Optical Sciences and Engineering
- Photonics
- Remote Sensing and Imaging
James E. Rogers College of Law
A nationally recognized law school offering JD and advanced law degrees with strengths in Indigenous peoples law, international trade, and intellectual property.
- Juris Doctor (JD)
- Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy
- International Trade Law
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- High School GPAMinimum 3.0 unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale recommended
- SAT/ACT ScoresTest-optional; if submitted, mid-50% SAT 1130-1340 or ACT 21-28
- English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT or IELTS required for non-native English speakers
- Application FeeUSD 85 for international applicants
- Application PlatformCommon Application or University of Arizona Application Portal
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale (program-specific requirements may vary)
- Standardized TestsGRE or GMAT may be required depending on program
- English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT or IELTS required for international applicants
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and resume/CV
Priority deadline for first-year applicants seeking early notification and maximum merit scholarship consideration.
Priority deadline for non-resident and international first-year students for maximum scholarship consideration.
Final application deadline for Arizona resident undergraduate applicants.
Graduate application deadlines differ by department and program. Check your specific program for exact dates.
Tuition, Fees & Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition, Fees & Scholarship Opportunities
The University of Arizona offers competitive tuition rates with a guaranteed tuition program that locks in rates for eight consecutive semesters. Costs vary based on residency status, degree level, and program of study.
| Cost Category | Arizona Resident | Non-Resident / International |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | USD 12,168 | USD 41,330 |
| Mandatory Fees | USD 1,731 | USD 1,731 |
| Room & Board (avg.) | USD 16,746 | USD 16,746 |
| Books & Supplies (est.) | USD 600 | USD 600 |
| Total | USD 31,245 | USD 60,407 |
Arizona Merit Tuition Awards
Automatically considered for incoming first-year and transfer students upon admission. Award amounts are based on academic achievements and are renewable for up to four consecutive years.
- Eligibility: First-year and transfer students admitted to the university
- Award Duration: Up to 4 years (8 semesters), renewable based on academic performance
- Application: Automatic consideration upon admission; apply by November 1 for priority
Global Wildcat Award (International Students)
Merit-based scholarship available to international undergraduate students, awarded based on academic excellence at the time of admission. The amount is determined by converting your grading system to the U.S. GPA scale.
- Eligibility: International first-year and transfer students
- Award Range: Varies based on GPA; contact the university for current amounts
- Application: Automatic consideration upon admission; no separate application required
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
The University of Arizona's 392-acre campus is located in the heart of Tucson, featuring a blend of historic red-brick buildings and modern research facilities. The main campus has been designated an arboretum, with plants from around the world labeled along a self-guided plant walk.
Completed in 1890, Old Main is the university's first and most iconic building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
One of the largest student unions in the United States, housing dining, event spaces, and the historic USS Arizona bell.
A public science center and planetarium on campus offering astronomy exhibits, a mineral museum, and public telescope viewings.
Housing & Dining
Residence Halls
The university offers a range of on-campus housing options for undergraduate and graduate students, from traditional residence halls to the Honors Village.
- Tier 1, 2, and 3 undergraduate residence halls
- Honors Village with premium amenities
- Graduate student apartments with 1, 2, and 4 bedroom options
Dining Options
Multiple dining plans are available with a variety of on-campus restaurants, cafes, and food courts serving diverse cuisines.
- Flexible meal plans with a 2% annual increase
- Multiple dining halls and food courts across campus
- Special dietary accommodations available
Student Life at the University of Arizona
Student Life at the University of Arizona
With more than 500 student clubs and organizations, the University of Arizona offers a vibrant campus community. From Greek life and cultural organizations to academic societies and outdoor recreation, there is something for every Wildcat.
Tucson, Arizona: A City of Sunshine & Culture
Tucson, Arizona: A City of Sunshine & Culture
Living in Tucson
Tucson is a vibrant, culturally rich city in southern Arizona with a population of approximately 550,000. Known for its stunning desert landscapes, rich Mexican-American heritage, and affordable cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities, Tucson is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences.
Desert Outdoor Recreation
Explore Saguaro National Park, Mount Lemmon, and Sabino Canyon for world-class hiking, cycling, and rock climbing just minutes from campus.
Cultural Heritage
Tucson's rich Mexican-American and Native American heritage is reflected in its art, cuisine, festivals, and historic neighborhoods like the Barrio Viejo.
Affordable Living
Tucson offers a lower cost of living compared to cities like Phoenix, Los Angeles, or San Francisco, making it an attractive option for students on a budget.
Climate & Sunshine
With an average of 350 days of sunshine per year and mild winters, Tucson is ideal for students who enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities year-round.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Top Employers of Graduates
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
The university's international student office provides visa guidance, cultural adjustment support, orientation programs, and compliance assistance to ensure a smooth transition to life in the United States.
The Center for English as a Second Language (CESL) offers intensive English programs and academic English courses to help international students build language proficiency before and during their studies.
International students are required to have health insurance. The university offers the Campus Health Plan, which provides comprehensive medical coverage including access to the Campus Health Service.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
The University of Arizona consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States and is recognized globally for its research output and academic excellence. As a member of the Association of American Universities, it maintains a strong position across multiple ranking systems.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Entomology | U.S. News & World Report | #1 Worldwide |
| Earth Sciences & Geosciences | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 30 Worldwide |
| Management Information Systems | U.S. News & World Report | Top 5 in the U.S. |
| Planetary Sciences | National Science Foundation | #4 NASA-funded Public University |
Features
\nThe University of Arizona is a leading public research university offering over 300 academic programs. Known for its strong research in space, health, and environmental sciences, it has a diverse international student body. The campus features modern facilities, and the university boasts strong career outcomes and competitive NCAA Division I athletics.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
December - March
August - October
Location
1200 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85721, United States
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
