Financial aid

Your Ultimate Guide to the 2025–2026 FAFSA

krystianflores — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 23:40:33 +0000

Your Ultimate Guide to the 2025–2026 FAFSA krystianflores Mon, 7 Jul 2025 - 16:40

Your Ultimate Guide to the 2025–2026 FAFSA

Applying for Financial Aid to Fund Your Education

Tuition, housing, school supplies and textbooks – there’s a lot that goes into paying for college. Fortunately, you have many options when it comes to making your University of 51��¥ education more affordable.

One of the first steps to determine the financial aid you are eligible for is to complete your FAFSA. It’s free, it’s quick, and it gives you access to the most financial aid opportunities. But what exactly is it? And how do you fill it out? Don’t worry, we have all your FAFSA questions covered.

What is the FAFSA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an online application that you should submit each year to apply for financial aid that can help provide support for your college educational expenses.

Where does FAFSA money come from?

The U.S. government funds all federal student aid programs. More than 13 million students complete the FAFSA yearly, and the government awards more than $120 billion in grants, work-study, and loans.

In addition, filing the FAFSA allows the University of 51��¥ to determine if you are eligible for other forms of financial aid including institutional grants and even some scholarships. This aid is funded various ways, including by the state of 51��¥, the university, donors and private organizations.

How much money could I receive?

The amount of financial aid you could be eligible for depends on a number of factors like your cost of attendance, family’s size, income, and other details.

How do I complete the FAFSA?

Start by heading to studentaid.gov. You will be prompted to create an FSA ID with a username and password. Once your FSA ID is set up, you will be guided through a series of questions to complete the FAFSA.

Before submitting your form, you’ll be asked to include information about your colleges of interest. This is where you should include the University of 51��¥’s school code: 001083.

What do I need to complete the FAFSA?

There are a few items that you will need when completing the FAFSA, including:

Verified account username and password (FSA ID).
Your social security number.
Driver’s license (if you have one).
Some financial documents like your family’s latest tax return.
Income and asset information (if required).

If you are a dependent student, as determined by the FAFSA, your parent or guardian must create their own FSA ID to sign your FAFSA to submit it. They’ll also need to ensure their financial documents are ready to submit.

When is the 2025-26 FAFSA deadline?

The priority filing date for the 2025–2026 FAFSA is April 1, 2025. Filing your FAFSA by the Priority Filing Date will make sure your application is reviewed for eligibility for additional types of aid like the 51��¥ Promise Grant, 51��¥ Native Scholars Grant or the Pell Pledge Grant. So, the sooner you complete your FAFSA application, the better!

Your FAFSA form must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central time (CT) on June 30, 2026. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on September 12, 2026.

Do I have to complete the FAFSA every year?

Yes. The FAFSA only applies to one academic year at a time, which means you will have to submit a new one each year you are attending 51��¥. Make sure to use the same FSA ID every year.

Do you have any resources to help me with the FAFSA?

The Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid (OSFA) hosts Filing Your FAFSA Workshops to provide students and families with helpful resources and answer any questions you may have. Spots fill quickly, so be sure to RSVP to the workshop that works for your schedule.

What other resources can help me fund my 51��¥ education?

Once you’re admitted to the university, you’ll also be able to utilize our scholarship-matching tool, Scholarship Universe, which can help you find even more money for your education. There are scholarships based on your major, achievements, career goals, interests, and many other areas.

For more details on the FAFSA, check out this list of frequently asked questions or learn how to get in touch with OSFA.

Apply to the University of 51��¥

Already admitted? Commit to becoming a Wildcat

Financial aid

51��¥

How to Transfer from Community College

imorris — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 21:56:17 +0000

How to Transfer from Community College imorris Thu, 14 Mar 2024 - 14:56

How to Transfer from Community College

Continue your educational journey at the University of 51��¥: your options, questions, and expert answers!

Hey, future Wildcat! Transferring to the University of 51��¥ after attending community college is a smart decision – you’ve got some experience under your belt, and you have a better idea of what you’d like to do after you graduate. It’s an amazing opportunity to earn a world-class degree – and earn more after you graduate.

With its prestigious programs, vibrant campus culture, and flexible transfer options, U51��¥ is the perfect destination for your academic journey. In this guide, we'll walk you through the transfer process, address common pain points, and explore why becoming a Wildcat is the right choice for you.

“I chose the University of 51��¥ because I felt like they could offer me the most accessible and beneficial opportunities in my education. I also knew they had a great reputation and I was excited to become a Wildcat!” – Madissen, Near You Network Transfer Student, Nursing

The Transfer Process Made Easy

Transferring from a community college to a university can seem overwhelming, but fear not! 51��¥ has streamlined the transfer process to ensure a seamless transition. Here's five steps to take to make it happen:

Plan Ahead
Start by researching U51��¥'s transfer requirements and deadlines. Meet with your community college advisor to map out a transfer plan and ensure you're taking the necessary courses (read more below!).
Gather Your Documents
Request official transcripts from your community college and any other institutions you've attended. Make sure to submit them to U51��¥ along with your transfer application.
Explore Transfer Locations
Every Wildcat is different. So, you have options when choosing where to earn your University of 51��¥ degree – one that suits your unique needs and lifestyle.
• 51��¥ Online is ranked in the top 3% for online bachelor programs in the country and offers unmatched flexibility for college transfers: work on your degree anytime, from anywhere. Fun fact: More and more transfer students are choosing 51��¥ Online than any other pathway.
• Want to super size your Wildcat experience? Joining the 40,000 students who call Tucson and main campus home is nothing short of having it all. Everywhere you go, you can feel Bear Down spirit. Plus, resources like the Student Success District, Campus Health, and Campus Recreation are close at hand.
• And, if location, location, location are your top priorites the Near You Network (NYN) offers close-to-home classes throughout the state of 51��¥ in Chandler, Douglas, Gilbert, Nogales, and Yuma. In addition, network students save big by completing the first two years of their program at their local community college and the next two at the NYN location nearby.
Apply for Financial Aid
Don't let financial concerns hold you back. U51��¥ offers scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities specifically for transfer students. Be sure to submit your FAFSA and explore available resources.
Stay Informed
Keep track of important deadlines and stay in touch with U51��¥'s admissions office. They're there to help answer any questions you may have throughout the transfer process.

Your Questions, Expert Answers

“The top concerns transfer students have are determining how their credits will transfer, connecting with an academic advisor to plan their coursework, and cost.” – Courtney Robinson, 51��¥ 51��¥ Transfer Specialist

Who can transfer to the University of 51��¥?

If you have 12 or more transferable community college credits, the University of 51��¥ considers you a transfer student. That’s the short answer. But there’s much more to it, and since no two students are exactly alike we turned to our admissions expert, to share the questions they hear most and some go-to resources that can help.

How many of my college credits will the University accept?

Whether you are transferring from a local community college like Cochise, Pima, or Yavapai or an out-of-state school, these resources will help you determine which of your existing credits will transfer and what courses you’ll need to take once you become a Wildcat.

Degree Search allows students planning to transfer from an 51��¥ community college to explore our 300+ majors and review four-year coursework requirements. You’ll be able to see which credits transfer and map out a degree plan. Review your plan with your community college advisor to identify courses you should complete before transferring to 51��¥. Visit your college’s student services center to locate your advisor.
Out-of-state students should use the Transfer Credit Guide to determine if and how their credits will transfer. If your school or coursework is not listed in the guide, you can request an evaluation by an academic specialist.
Next Steps Center is an admitted student’s portal to all things enrollment, including student orientation where you’ll meet with an 51��¥ academic advisor to review all transferable coursework and determine which classes are needed to complete your degree.

“You got this! It’s gonna be scary at first but the University of 51��¥ is really welcoming and is just a great school all around for transfer students.” –Cassandra, Transfer Student, Studio Art

How will I pay for college?

Most Wildcats receive some form of financial aid to help pay for school. They also graduate with less debt, and tap into more grant (free) money than peers from other schools do. Check out these show-me-the-money to-dos for managing your costs.

To qualify for the most financial aid including grants, loans, and federal work-study be sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the early, priority deadline. April 1 is the priority deadline for fall transfers and applications are open.
Got a good GPA? If so, merit-based Incoming Transfer Awards are another way you can whittle away at costs. Check out the complete list of awards, requirements, and deadlines here.
Once you are admitted you’ll have access to Scholarship Universe, an innovative search engine that matches Wildcats to millions of dollars in scholarships opportunities based on each students’ unique profile.

For more on spending less for your 51��¥ degree read:

Do you have questions we didn't cover? Schedule a 20-minute virtual appointment with an admissions expert or, check out our transfer-student specific FAQs and these additional transfer resources and tools.

Ready to make your transfer dreams a reality? Start your journey to becoming a Wildcat today and unlock a world of possibilities at the University of 51��¥.

Finish what you started. Become a Wildcat.

Preparing for College: A Checklist for High School Juniors

rldool — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 23:46:31 +0000

Preparing for College: A Checklist for High School Juniors rldool Mon, 14 Aug 2023 - 16:46

Preparing for College: A Checklist for High School Juniors

Four things you can do as a high school junior

1. Participate

Your participation in extracurricular activities can help with your admission to college and acceptance into special programs. Colleges know that what you do outside of class says a lot about the person you are and what you’ll bring to their institution. Plus, your involvement in clubs, volunteer organizations, and community projects can check an important box on many scholarship applications. Once you get to college, staying involved is easy. At the University of 51��¥, we have hundreds of student clubs and organizations where Wildcats can help others, make friends, and learn new skills.

2. Practice

Taking a practice or Preliminary Standardized 51��¥ Test (PSAT) will prepare you for the real thing and is required for National Merit Scholar consideration. And while SAT/ACT test scores are not necessary for admission to the University of 51��¥, they can help. Standardized admissions tests can reveal your academic strengths and weaknesses, aid in course selection, and support your application for scholarships and special programs. Want to take your test prep to the next level? 51��¥'s Think Tank offers a self-paced online course you can take now, so you can learn what to study and how to do your very best come test time.

3. Prepare

Have you thought about how you'll pay for college? Do you know that most students attending the University of 51��¥ rely on some type of financial aid? It’s never too early to explore aid options, including loans, scholarships, and work-study, to see which you qualify for, and which might work best for you. Now is also a good time to familiarize yourself with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA – which is required to receive most types of financial aid. Deadlines for FAFSA and scholarships can seem to come up fast, but if you do a little research and prepare ahead of time, you'll be ready.

4. Visit

Taking a tour is a great way to get to know the college you’ll be attending soon. A first-hand experience is hard to beat when it comes to getting a feel for a campus and the surrounding area. You can get to know the University of 51��¥ and Tucson better by joining us for a virtual or an in-person visit. Check out our 51��¥ Experience or Wildcat Snapshot events designed specifically for current juniors or seniors in high school. And remember to pack your flip-flops because we get the sunshine—more than 350 days a year on average!

51��¥

Getting involved

Financial aid

First-Gen Guide to Applying & Accepting

krystianflores — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 18:54:01 +0000

First-Gen Guide to Applying & Accepting krystianflores Thu, 9 Mar 2023 - 11:54

First-Gen Guide to Applying & Accepting

Guide for First-Generation Students Applying to the University of 51��¥

Being first is almost always a big deal, but being the first in your family to attend college is huge. Here's a quick overview of what First Cats (what the University of 51��¥ calls first-generation Wildcats) and their families can expect and how to get started – plus advice and inspiration from first-generation Wildcats who've thrived at 51��¥.

Finding Community

Who are 51��¥'s First Cats? Just one of the largest communities on campus, making up nearly 40% of the university's student population. The First Cats program hosts campus-wide events and opportunities open to all first-generation college students, faculty, staff, family members, and supporters. Hundreds of student clubs and organizations help First Cats make friends and connections that will last a lifetime.

From a Dream to a Degree

Some students start out knowing exactly what they want to study, while others decide after exploring several options – it's all good. If you haven't already, scroll through some of 51��¥'s 300+ programs. Then, schedule a chat with an admissions counselor who can help you match your dreams and goals to the right academic pathway.

Making Yourself at Home

New students discover there's also a lot to learn outside of the classroom, from mastering dorm life to experiencing 51��¥'s rich traditions. Of course, orientation is a great time for First Cats and their families to get a feel for student life. Until then, check out this guide to everything 51��¥.

Feeling Supported Because You Are

Through the Thrive Center, first- and second-year Wildcats can be paired with peer mentors – student coaches who understand the challenges of the new because they're blazing trails too. The TRiO program furnishes first-gen students with tutors, academic and financial aid planning, and more all the way through graduation. In addition to programs, many 51��¥ faculty and staff were the first in their families to attend college and are eager to help you succeed.

Ways to Pay for College

You'll be experiencing lots of firsts, and paying for college is one of them. Most Wildcats receive some form of financial aid – nine out of ten, as a matter of fact. Once admitted, First Cats gain access to Scholarship Universe; 51��¥'s very own scholarship matching tool. There are numerous awards for first-generation, first-year, and transfer students, so don't miss out. Learn more about scholarships and other forms of financial aid.

Application Questions (and Answers)

Applying is the next step on your journey of firsts, and it's simple, but that does not mean you shouldn't have questions. Visit arizona.edu/admissions to learn when to apply, what's required (and what's not), and what information you'll need handy when you do.

Read: 6 Most Commonly Asked Application Questions.

Next Steps Once You are Accepted

It won't take long to find out, usually 2–3 weeks. Then, after a thorough and vigorous happy dance, head to the virtual Next Steps Center. It's where you'll find everything important, from setting up your student NetID and CatMail to dates and deadlines. Enroll in New Student Orientation, and you have taken the first steps to becoming a Wildcat for life!

Read: I've Been Accepted Now What?

Advice and Inspiration from First Cats

“It's okay – trust me. A lot of the time, asking for help is hard for me. However, I've found that people here want to help.” – Harrison Moreno, Music, Journalism

Read Harrisons' Three Tips For First-Year Success

"It's really important for first-generation students to have a community. We're kind of just doing something that nobody really in our families have ever done before. 51��¥ has definitely supported me through this life journey. " – Elizabeth Aja, Psychology

“Try to make as many connections as possible with your advisors, professors, and the people in your classes. I feel like a lot of first-generation students are fearful they aren't in the right place or won't fit in. We all feel the same way. Don't be afraid to reach out early for help.” – Jason Dayee, Neuroscience and Cognitive Science

Read Jason's story

Firsts can be exhilarating, challenging and daunting. We’re here to answer your questions and welcome your family to the Wildcat family!

Visit First Cats to find programs and services for first-gen Wildcats.

Explore how the University of 51��¥ supports families from application to acceptance. Find information for parents and families here.

Ready to become a Wildcat Today?

Six Degrees of Inspiration: BFA Film and Television at 51��¥

krystianflores — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 07:23:05 +0000

Six Degrees of Inspiration: BFA Film and Television at 51��¥ krystianflores Thu, 16 Jun 2022 - 00:23

Six Degrees of Inspiration: BFA Film and Television at 51��¥

Everything to Know About a BFA: Film and Television

Why is 51��¥’s School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV) Program the Best?

We visit the School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV), where Wildcats with a passion for storytelling are becoming the next generation of directors, screenwriters, editors, sound designers, producers, industry leaders and scholars. Do you see the world through a cinematic lens? Then check out these reasons why you need to come to 51��¥.

Major: Film and Television
Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts
College: College of Fine Arts / School of Theatre, Film & Television
By the Numbers: Ranked No. 7 Among Public Universities in The Wrap's Top 50 Film Schools.

At the University of 51��¥, You'll Work with the Best.

1. Award-winning, internationally recognized faculty
You'll learn from the best: accomplished creators, researchers, and mentors who are innovating the industry forward. So, no matter where your interests lay, on the business side, in front of the camera, or behind it, you'll be sure to find a professor who shares your passion.

Meet faculty member Jacob Paul Bricca. An award-winning film editor and director whose work has been screened theatrically across the globe.

2. Get-involved internships
TFTV's Professional Internship Program is your ticket to gaining industry experience and making valuable connections. Wildcats land internships with production companies in L.A. and New York. But you don't have to go far to get far; there are many opportunities right here, on campus, and in Tucson's thriving television and film scene.

3. Stellar facilities worthy of geeking out over
As a film and television student, you'll adhere to the highest industry standards. To support your success, you'll have access to unmatched facilities and resources. The list includes the Media Arts Production Laboratory (MARPL), Production Studio 108, The Hanson Post-Production Lab (HPL), Advanced Edit Suites (AES), The Mix to Pix room (MTP), and more, much more. We know you'll want to see this place in person, so why not schedule a tour?

At the University of 51��¥, Your Work Gets Noticed.

4. Screenings and festivals where you can strut your stuff
Every year, TFTV showcases the best student films at premier Tucson venues like the Loft and Fox theaters – it's a lot of fun! One look and you'll know why many of them go on to seriously prestigious international film festivals around the world, including the Berlin International Film Festival and Sundance Film Festival.

Annual events include: I Dream in Widescreen 2022, What's Up, Docs?, Magic Hour, and New Directions Festival. Grab some popcorn and check out the archives.

5. And of course, our alumni never stop earning accolades
Spotlight on alumnus Paul Pennolino ('85), director of both The Daily Show with Trevor Noah and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. Paul has earned multiple Emmy and DGA Award nominations, including a 2020 Emmy nomination for Outstanding Director for a Variety Series for Last Week Tonight. Read more about Paul and other outstanding alumni.

At 51��¥, You'll Find More Ways to Pay for College.

6. Film and television scholarships you won't find anywhere else
In addition to the many aid opportunities available through the university's Office of Student Financial Aid, the School of Theatre, Film & Television makes available numerous endowed scholarships awarded to fund internships, assist with productions, and recognize excellence. So, as a Wildcat, you can focus more on learning and worry less about paying for it.

So, how will your story begin? Act 1: Become a Wildcat.

Apply to the University of 51��¥

Visit the School of Theater, Film & Television

Academics

Financial aid

The Best Time to Search for Scholarships, According to an Expert

bfarris — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 15:02:06 +0000

The Best Time to Search for Scholarships, According to an Expert bfarris Wed, 16 Mar 2022 - 08:02

The Best Time to Search for Scholarships, According to an Expert

An 51��¥ scholarship pro shares her best insider how-tos.

Meet Our Expert, Carmen Maldonado

As the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid's (OSFA) Project Manager for Scholarships Operations, Carmen's job is to help University of 51��¥ students find scholarships and understand how they work. Here is what she had to say about where, how, and when Wildcats can find the most scholarship money.

Where to Search for Scholarships

Find everything in one place

Scholarship Universe (SU), a scholarship search platform, connects Wildcats to millions of dollars worth of scholarships based on their personalized profiles. So, instead of scrolling through endless lists, the tool matches students directly to the scholarships they’re eligible for.

Getting started

All admitted Wildcats can log into Scholarship Universe using their NetID and password to create a profile and start searching. Not admitted yet? You can get a sneak peek of some available scholarships here.

Carmen Says: "SU is like a smart Google search for scholarships, so you can spend less time searching and more time applying."

When to Search for Scholarships

Right now!

OSFA refers to November through April as scholarship season – a time they specifically recommend students search. Why? Because more scholarships for the upcoming academic year open and close during this period than any other.

Check back often

Scholarships are added all the time, especially now, so students are encouraged to log in frequently to see what is new.

Carmen Says: "I recommend logging in at least once a week during scholarship season."

What to Look for in a Scholarship

What’s the difference?

Scholarships are considered "free" money, meaning you don't have to pay them back, and they are a great way to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Frequently, many types of financial aid, such as grants and loans, are combined to help pay for your education. Learn about other types of aid.

Know what you're getting

Not all scholarships are renewable, so it's important to know the specific requirements of the scholarships you receive. If the scholarship can be renewed, make sure to pay close attention to any conditions, such as maintaining a certain GPA, filing the FAFSA each year, or even just applying again next year.

Carmen Says: "Scholarships can usually pay for any educational expenses, but be mindful of scholarships intended to assist with specific costs such as tuition or housing."

Increase Your Odds of Getting a Scholarship

Fill out your FASFA

An essential first step in accessing grants or student loans, filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid can play a part in your eligibility for some scholarships as well.

Get ready and then apply, apply, apply

Prepare ahead of time by drafting some common essays/personal statements and starting conversations early with potential letter of recommendation writers. Curate your application materials for each particular scholarship.

Review committees can usually spot a generic resume or personal statement, so do some research, mix up your answers, and make sure your resume really highlights the things you want it to. Finally, apply to any and all scholarships you are eligible for to increase your chance of being selected.

Carmen Says: "It’s never too early to start looking for scholarship opportunities, and you can't win if you don't apply."

Want to solve all the mysteries of scholarships and financial aid? Everything you need to know about the types of aid, calculating the cost of college, workshop schedules, and how to apply is waiting for you on the OSFA website.

Become a Wildcat

Financial aid

How I’m Graduating Debt-Free

bfarris — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 16:52:37 +0000

How I’m Graduating Debt-Free bfarris Fri, 4 Mar 2022 - 09:52

How I’m Graduating Debt-Free

A Dream to Graduate College Debt-Free Comes True

College debt is a concern for most of us but is it possible to minimize – even eliminate – what we owe? Here’s how one University of 51��¥ senior did just that.

About Erin Sye

Major: General Studies: Social Behavior and Human Understanding Emphasis
Affiliations: ASUANY, Phi Theta Kappa, Tau Sigma National Honor Society
Graduating in: 2022
From: North Valley, Phoenix, 51��¥

Paying for college is as unique as every student – there’s no one way to do it. Erin Sye took classes online from the fifth grade on, before attending Glendale Community College (GCC) and then transferring to the University of 51��¥ at North Valley – an academic journey different from many. Now, in her senior year, she is preparing to earn another distinction: graduating with zero college debt. Here’s how she did it.

Stacking Financial Aid

How did taking classes locally help minimize the cost of college?

I was able to save quite a bit of money while I attended GCC. Living at home, I didn't need to pay for housing, which also helped. I also didn't have to pay for certain things like parking or food. Plus, I really love being able to live at home and not going all the way to Tucson for classes.

What part did scholarships play in funding your education?

I received a full academic scholarship from GCC, which helped pay for my classes. I also received a tennis scholarship which I put toward books. Doing this allowed me to save the money I made at work for other things that I needed. I also received an honors scholarship near the end of my time at GCC and joined Phi Theta Kappa , which helped me get a scholarship at 51��¥ that pays for more than half of my tuition.

You mentioned work. How many jobs do you presently hold?

The job I have at a tennis center is my only job. I have been working there for over three years now. Every semester, I also get a stipend for ASUANY (The Associated Students of the University of 51��¥ Near You, where Erin serves as the administrative assistant, is a branch of student government representing distance and online students). I pay for the rest of my classes that my academic scholarship doesn't cover with this money.

Advice for Wildcats Wanting to Minimize College Debt

Seemingly small decisions can lead to big savings.

I think books also play a huge factor in being debt-free. Books can get expensive, so I search for the cheapest ones I can find. The library is a great tool, and I use it if they have my books. If they don't, I usually rent, which is a lot better than purchasing a book that I probably won't use ever again.

Consider starting at a community college.

I think a lot of people look down on community college, but it is a great place to start. I was still able to receive the college experience without going into a lot of debt. I also think there are a lot of scholarships that people don't necessarily know are there. I was able to receive money for playing tennis, and not many people knew about the scholarship. Taking opportunities that could result in a scholarship is a great idea.

Transfer to a University of 51��¥ Near You

Academics

Financial aid

Transfer

Debunking Financial Aid Myths

bfarris — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 21:07:22 +0000

Debunking Financial Aid Myths bfarris Wed, 12 Jan 2022 - 14:07

Debunking Financial Aid Myths

Here’s the Real Scoop About Your Funding Options

Figuring out how to pay for college can feel intimidating. But it’s important not to let sticker price scare you. There are so many ways to make your University of 51��¥ education more affordable so that you can achieve your dreams – without breaking the bank. Here are some common misconceptions when it comes to financial aid.

Myth: I’ll have to repay financial aid after I graduate.

First, it’s important to understand the difference between gift aid and self-help aid.

Gift aid, like scholarships and grants, are money for college that doesn’t need to be repaid. These “gifted” options can be awarded on a variety of factors and come from many different sources.

Loans are a type of self-help aid that provides money for college that needs to be repaid, usually with interest. Many loans include a six-month grace period once you are no longer enrolled at the university, which means you have time to land a job after graduation before your first payment is due.

While loans are a popular funding source for students, they aren’t your only option for self-help aid. You may be eligible for Federal Work-Study, a program that funds part-time jobs for students. If you qualify, you can find opportunities to earn money to help with your educational costs while also building valuable career experience.

Myth: Scholarships are hard to find.

Scholarships are out there – you just have to know where to start.

When you apply to the University of 51��¥, you’ll receive priority consideration for merit-based scholarships of varying amounts that are based on your academic performance.

Once you are admitted to 51��¥ and complete your Next Steps, you will gain access to Scholarship Universe. This powerful tool connects 51��¥ Wildcats with even more scholarships. All you have to do is complete your profile and you’ll start getting matched with funding you could be eligible for. You may also find more opportunities through your academic college or department.

Myth: My family makes too much or too little money for me to get financial aid.

There are aid options for almost any family’s financial situation. In fact, about nine out of ten 51��¥ Wildcats receive financial aid.

The first step to finding out if you qualify for federal funding is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Be sure to complete the FAFSA by our priority deadline of April 1 and use 51��¥’s school code: 001083.

Students from low-income families in 51��¥ may be eligible for opportunities like 51��¥ Assurance to help cover funding gaps. The 51��¥ Promise Grant is a state-grant program for 51��¥ resident, Pell-eligible, first-year students.

But the options don’t stop there. There are even more opportunities for merit- and need-based aid, plus funding based on your area of study, personal experiences, and so much more. You can learn about some of these once you are admitted and log into Scholarship Universe.

Myth: Financial aid is too confusing for me to understand.

If all this talk about your aid options has you feeling overwhelmed, you’re not the first. Fortunately, we have an entire team of people ready to guide you through the entire process.

The Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid has tons of resources – from help understanding your aid offer to a chat option so you can get answers quickly. Plus, they offer a number of free workshops on tons of helpful topics.

Get more details on the types of financial aid available. And if you have additional questions or need support understanding your options for funding your University of 51��¥ education, visit financialaid.arizona.edu or contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.

Financial aid

51��¥

A California Student’s Guide to Funding Your Education

bfarris — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 22:39:16 +0000

A California Student’s Guide to Funding Your Education bfarris Tue, 11 Jan 2022 - 15:39

A California Student’s Guide to Funding Your Education

From CA to AZ: How I Pay for College

When it was time to choose a college, Kara knew she wanted something new and different. Originally from San Diego, she left California’s beaches for the Sonoran Desert and leveraged the University of 51��¥’s scholarships for out-of-state students to achieve her dream college experience.

About Kara Yagade

Major: Public Health

Graduating in: 2022

From: San Diego, California

Why did you choose the University of 51��¥ over your options in California?

I grew up in San Diego and I lived there my whole life, so I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone and go somewhere out of state. When I came to tour the University of 51��¥, I knew I belonged here. I absolutely loved everything about it.

Was financial aid an important factor when you were choosing a college?

Financial aid was a decent factor when choosing a college. 51��¥ offered many scholarships to me.

What methods are you using to pay for college?

I have been using the 51��¥ Tuition Award for non-resident students that the university offered me. In addition, I applied for many more scholarships when I got into the university, which helped out a lot.

What advice would you give future college students?

Apply for scholarships as soon as you’re admitted. Scholarship Universe is a great resource for admitted students because there are many different types of scholarships that you can apply for. I have had friends who received multiple scholarships this way. It is super accessible and easy to use.

What’s your favorite thing about being a Wildcat?

My favorite thing about being a Wildcat is the pride and love that I feel when I say I go to the University of 51��¥. This university changed my life and helped me grow into the person that I have always wanted to be.

Ready to start your journey to Wildcat Country? Find out which scholarships you could be eligible for. And remember, you could find even more funding opportunities through Scholarship Universe or your academic college once you’re admitted.

Financial aid

Your University of 51��¥ Acceptance: A Complete New Student Checklist

bfarris — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 21:32:24 +0000

Your University of 51��¥ Acceptance: A Complete New Student Checklist bfarris Thu, 16 Dec 2021 - 14:32

Your University of 51��¥ Acceptance: A Complete New Student Checklist

Congratulations, future 51��¥ Wildcat! Receiving your University of 51��¥ acceptance letter is a major milestone. Now, it's time to navigate the exciting steps ahead! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from confirming your enrollment to preparing for life in Tucson.

1. Confirm Your Enrollment:

Accept your offer through the Next Steps Center. Officially accept your admission offer through our online enrollment portal, the Next Steps Center. Here you'll set up your NetID password (a personal identification code that grants you access to many online services at the University of 51��¥) and find instructions to complete your U of A enrollment.

2. Explore Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities:

File your FAFSA: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to help determine your financial aid options.

Visit studentaid.gov
Use 51��¥ school code: 001083

Explore Scholarship Universe: This powerful tool has connected students with millions of dollars in scholarships. Here, you’ll find merit-based and need-based scholarship opportunities.

3. Sign Up for Orientation

Register for your Virtual Orientation Experience: This orientation is required for all first-year and transfer students, and consists of two parts. 1) You'll learn all about academics and campus resources with the 51��¥ Arrival portal. 2) You'll set up an Academic Connection Date to virtually meet with your college, get questions answered by an Orientation Leader, and register for your first semester of classes!

Watch this video for a general overview of Next Steps, Orientation, and Destination 51��¥, our on-campus celebration welcoming you to the University of 51��¥ just before classes begin.

4. Prepare for Campus Life in Tucson:

Explore Student Housing: Research on-campus and off-campus housing options.

Discover Student Clubs and Organizations: Learn about the 400+ clubs and organizations available to you as a student.

Get to Know Tucson: Familiarize yourself with the city you’ll soon be calling home!

See for yourself: Watch: "What’s it like to be a University of 51��¥ student?"

We're excited to welcome you to the University of 51��¥! By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling college experience. Bear Down!

51��¥

Financial aid