University of Arizona - Tucson, AZ
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University of Arizona - Tucson, AZ
Public land grant university with unique research opportunities in sciences and business with a nationally ranked Honors College
Fun facts
Over 40% of students are from out of state Out of State Student Guide
Their motto, ‘Bear Down’, comes from their 1926 quarterback’s inspirational last words to his team.
University of AZ’s football team is now part of the Big 12 conference
Academics - Admissions
Updates (changes within last 2 years!)
1- Early Action deadline of Nov. 1st
U of AZ used to be a rolling admissions, fairly ‘accessible’ public university with generous merit scholarships. However, with financial budgetary constraints in the last few years, the new President moved more scholarship awards to AZ students. So, use their Net Price Calculator (available soon for next year) and evaluate your financial fit!
2- U of AZ has a supplemental essay
The ‘Why Univ. of AZ” 500 word (max) essay that is ‘optional’, but really must be done to be considered. The University of Arizona’s “Why AZ” is reviewed for fit to major, but the optional Common Application essay may also be used for context only (student circumstances, etc..).
3- Core Competency Requirements
There are mandatory HS courses (note math requirement - 4 years and 3 years - lab science)!
Additional Math needed:
Eller College of Management (business school) - AP Statistics and AP Calculus strongly recommended
College of Engineering - Calculus A/B strongly recommended
Unique Majors/Programs
The SALT Center (Strategic Alternative Learning Techniques)
SALT is a co-curricular academic support program for students with learning differences. It is not the Disability Resources Center (which handles ADA accommodations). SALT offers learning specialists, tutoring, structured academic support, and dedicated facilities and serves over 800 students. NOTE: there is an additional fee for this student service.
Top Research in Sciences
NASA funded activities - top 5 in US plus access to telescopes (Kitt Peak, Steward Observatory)
Biosphere2 - a 3+ acre lab site that studies earth systems science applications (take a virtual tour)
Water Science - top 5 in Hydrology and Water Resources management
Direct BSN - Nursing
Nursing major is now Direct Admit as of Fall 2025! You only have one chance to gain admission to Nursing - freshman year.
18 different undergraduate majors, including a Business Engineering major. And, you can apply later to transfer into the College of Engineering while at University of AZ (certain prerequisites and min. GPA requirements).
Campus Culture and Sports
A wide variety of 500+ clubs and organizations
Basketball team ranked top 5 for 2026 NCAA
