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Arizona State University 2026 Guide
Where Innovation Meets Opportunity
Arizona State University (ASU) ranks among the largest and most pioneering public research institutions in the United States. Recognised for its dedication to accessibility, quality, innovation, and student achievement, Arizona State University aims to support learners from varied backgrounds in reaching their academic and professional goals.
About Arizona State University
ASU is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the US for innovation and global impact, as well as producing many graduates with strong career outcomes. According to the Global Employability University Ranking and Survey, ASU ranks second in the US for graduate employability. It has over 150,000 students across its on-campus and online programs. To learn more about Arizona State University’s rankings, tuition fees, and student insights, explore our in-depth ASU guide for prospective students
Type: Public research university with multiple campuses, including Tempe, Polytechnic, Downtown Phoenix, and West.
Founded: 1885
International Diversity: Students from 160+ countries.
Admissions: Broadly accessible with competitive international applications
Total Enrollment: 150,000+ students across on-campus and online programs
Undergraduate Students: Over 120,000 enrolled
Graduate Students: More than 30,000 are pursuing advanced degrees
Student–Faculty Ratio: Approximately 18:1, supporting academic engagement
Campus Locations: Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, and West campuses
Global Ranking Presence: Strong representation in QS and Times Higher Education rankings
Innovation Ranking: Ranked #1 Most Innovative University by U.S. News for multiple consecutive years. It is also ranked among the top 20 public universities for international students.
| Category | Rank / Position |
|---|---|
| Criminology program (US) | #2 (tie) among U.S public universities |
| Public Affairs (US) | #11 (tie) |
| Engineering & Computer Science (US) | Top programs nationally |
| Global Rankings | Strong global presence (QS, THE) |
| MBA Programs | #1 in US for entrepreneurship & top supply chain (Poets&Quants, U.S. News) |
Arizona State University Admissions and Acceptance Rate
ASU’s admissions policy places a strong emphasis on inclusion, as determined by who is accepted and how successful they are, rather than by who is excluded. The intellectual and cultural backgrounds of ASU’s admitted students are diverse. Arizona State University's acceptance rate is 88%. Admitted students at ASU have access to top-notch undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as various chances to personalise their academic journeys with interdisciplinary studies, double majors, minors, and certificates. ASU offers a tailored admission process for first-year students, transfer students, international students, Graduate students, Online students, veterans, and non-degree seekers.
| Requirement | ASU (Official) |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | ~88% |
| SAT / ACT | Optional; not required |
| GPA | Competency requirements; ~3.0+ recommended |
| Application Method | ASU Application or Common App |
| Intake Seasons | Fall, Spring, Summer |
| English Proficiency (Intl.) | TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/Duolingo required if education is not in English |
| Transcripts | Official high school/college transcripts (with English translations) |
Arizona State University Campus Experience
Being a student at ASU means being a part of a vibrant and research-focused community. The flagship campus, Tempe, is renowned for its extensive academic programs, active student body, and research efforts. Other campuses provide other experiences, such as professional interaction in Downtown Phoenix and experiential learning at the Polytechnic campus. Through their multidisciplinary programs and cutting-edge instruction, ASU’s academic experience is meant to be transformative and adaptive while promoting creativity, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving.
Each of Arizona State University's four separate campuses in the Phoenix metropolitan area offers a variety of academic and lifestyle experiences while upholding the same academic standards.
Tempe Campus (Flagship)
ASU's largest and most research-oriented campus is in Tempe. Numerous undergraduate and graduate programs, significant research facilities, NCAA Division I athletics, and a lively student body are all located there.
Campus in Downtown Phoenix
This Downtown Phoenix campus, which focuses on media, public service, business, law, and health studies, is situated in the center of Phoenix. Because of its proximity to corporate centers and government buildings, it offers excellent industry exposure and internship opportunities.
Campus of Polytechnic
The Polytechnic campus places a strong focus on practical, applied learning. It is well-known for its engineering, aviation, technology, and sustainability programs that combine project-based learning with practical problem-solving.
West Valley
With strengths in the liberal arts, education, psychology, and social sciences, ASU West Valley provides a tight-knit academic community. Students looking for more community-focused campus life and smaller class sizes will find it appealing.
Why Choose Arizona State University
Arizona State University's dedication to innovation, diversity, and job preparedness sets it apart on a worldwide scale.
ASU is chosen by students for:
- #1 in U.S. innovation for several years in a row.
- 800+ programs, including Arizona State University's online degrees via the Arizona Global Campus.
- Hands-on, transdisciplinary learning for real-world skills.
- Strong Arizona State University career support and excellent graduate outcomes.
- Prime Phoenix location, a hub for business, tech, and healthcare.
- Accessible Arizona State University admission and tuition options.
Student Housing
Arizona State University has on-campus housing alternatives that are conveniently located near academic buildings, food facilities, recreation centers, and campus events. Living on campus develops community, encourages student participation, and boosts academic performance. On-campus housing options vary by location, but commonly include classic residence halls, apartment-style accommodations, and special interest communities. In contrast, off-campus housing is also well-liked, especially in the areas of the Tempe and Downtown Phoenix campuses. Due to their increased freedom, contemporary facilities, and flexible price alternatives, private flats and accommodations are preferred by many students. Browse affordable and verified student housing options with amber near Arizona State University, just minutes from campus.
Closest Student Accommodations Near Arizona State University:
1. University House Tempe – from USD 809/month
2. Alight Tempe – from USD 730/month
3. Gateway at Tempe – from USD 680/month
4. Emerson Park Apartment Homes – from USD 970/month
5. Rambler Tempe – from USD 1,479/month
Arizona State University Courses and Degrees
Arizona State University’s academic offerings are wide, which include more than 400 undergraduate degree programs and 450 graduate degree programs. These include sectors like business, engineering, arts & design, humanities, sciences, health, sustainability, and more. Students can study majors, minors, and certificates in various areas to tailor their education to their professional and intellectual interests. ASU offers programs on four metro Phoenix campuses, Online and in selected locations around the U.S. Notable speciality programs include Barrett The Honors college-an expanded honours experience, and renowned colleges like Thunderbird School of Global Management and the Ira A.Fultom Schools of Engineering.
| Degree Level | Number of Programs (Official) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) | Over 400+ undergraduate degree programs and majors are offered by ASU faculties. |
| Graduate (Master’s & Doctoral) | Over 450+ graduate degree programs across disciplines. |
| Total Degrees (UG + Grad) | 800+ total academic degree programs available. |
| Certificate Programs | Academic certificates available (undergrad & graduate) - multiple certificate options across fields. |
Arizona State University Careers and Employability
ASU provides students with extensive career services that assist with job discovery, resume development, interview preparation, internship placement, and networking opportunities. Students can connect with employers and job prospects through, attend career fairs, access mentorship programs, and receive personalised career advice. ASU’s emphasis on career preparedness, including a ranking among the top colleges in the United States for graduate employability, with graduates working at large firms across industries.
| Service | Availability |
|---|---|
| Career Counseling | Yes |
| Internship Support | Yes |
| On-Campus Job Fairs | Regular |
| Employer Partnerships | 3,000+ |
Arizona State University Tuition and Cost
Arizona State University tuition and cost varies greatly depending on student level, campus living options, and Residency. Students can compute their own costs using ASU’s cost of attendance tools and tuition estimator. Additionally, ASU offers a wide range of financial assistance and scholarship alternatives, including work-study, resident -focused grant programs,merit-based scholarships like the New American University Scholarship, and federal aid.
| Category | Arizona Resident | International Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | USD 11,500–13,500 | USD 32,000–35,000 |
| Graduate Tuition | USD 12,000–15,000 | USD 28,000–38,000 |
| Room and Board | ~USD 14,000 | ~USD 14,000 |
| Books and Supplies | ~USD 1,300 | ~USD 1,300 |
Notable Alumni
Here are the top 5 most notable and famous alumni of Arizona State University (ASU), widely recognised across sports, business, media, and entertainment
- Jimmy Kimmel: Renowned television host and comedian, best known for Jimmy Kimmel Live!
- Phil Mickelson: Legendary professional golfer and multiple major championship winner.
- Kate Spade: Iconic fashion designer and founder of the global brand Kate Spade New York.
- Barry Bonds: Baseball legend and MLB’s all-time home run leader.
- Reggie Jackson: Hall of Fame baseball player, famously known as “Mr October.”
- James Harden: a notable alumnus known as an NBA superstar, former MVP, and one of the most prolific scorers in modern basketball history.
Conclusion
Arizona State University is a worldwide-renowned university that combines inclusive opportunities, varied learning settings, job preparation, and academic success. ASU equips students for success in a constantly shifting global environment with a wide range of programs, strong career assistance, reasonable tuition costs, and a focus on practical experience. Arizona State University continues to be a top option for students looking for a progressive university with a wide range of programs, excellent employability results, and a lively student body. Discover the safest places in Arizona and find the ideal city for your studies and lifestyle in our in-depth safety guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arizona a Good University?
Yes, it is a very good University, it is well established, and ranked #1 for innovation by U.S. News and World Report. It is also recognized for its global impact and sustainability and for being an R1 research institution.
Where is Arizona College located?
ASU is located in a metropolitan area, with its main and largest campus in Tempe, Arizona. It also has other campuses in Mesa, Glendale, and downtown Phoenix, and various global and online locations.
Is Arizona State University costly?
The cost of tuition at ASU is around the same as that of a top colleges in the U.S. and varies a lot based on the program. International first-year students can expect $33,000 a year for fees, which does not include housing and living costs.
Why is ASU so popular?
ASU has a culture of innovation and inclusion, which draws researchers to its faculty and attracts highly qualified students from all over the world. ASU gives students academic and entrepreneurial opportunities for every type of learners thats the reason it is popular.
Is ASU 100% acceptance rate?
No, Arizona State University does not have 100% acceptance rate. It's around 90%, making it moderately selective.