If you have been researching some of the top schools in the country, you have likely come across the top two contenders in Arizona. The question of University of Arizona vs Arizona State University is a hot topic in The Grand Canyon State. Each of these two schools offer some top program offerings, unique campus culture, and a fair bid for Arizona’s top university. So, what’s better in the battle of ASU vs U of A? You be the judge!
Here is everything you need to know about the University of Arizona vs Arizona State University.
U of A vs. ASU: a General Comparison
| UA | ASU | |
| Location | Tempe, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
| U.S. News Ranking | #105 in National Universities (tie) | #115 in National Universities (tie) |
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | 65,492 (fall 2022) | 40,407 (fall 2022) |
| Fall 2022 Acceptance Rate | 90% | 87% |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 54% | 54% |
| Average First-Year Student Retention Rate | 86% | 85% |
| International Student Retention Rate | 92% | 88% |
| Estimated Cost of Books and Supplies | $1,320 | $900 |
| Tuition and Fees (Out-of-State) | $32,193 | $37,355 |
| Tuition and Fees (In-State) | $12,051 | $12,937 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 19:1 | 18:1 |
University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is the home of the Wildcats. It was founded in 1855 and is one of the top STEM schools in the southwest. The main campus is located in Tucson and the university also offers extensive online opportunities. The University of Arizona has been ranked a Top 50 Public University and the 10th best online Bachelor’s program in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report (2023).
There are approximately 36,503 undergraduate students, so this school is a great pick for those who want a mid-size campus feel. Students at U of A can choose from over 150 majors including Applied Biotechnology, Architectural Engineering, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Game Design and Development, Aerospace Engineering, and more. Students can also participate in various global education programs by studying abroad in locations like Australia, Cambodia, China, Denmark, and Egypt.
Student life at the University of Arizona is about much more than education. It is about building connections and getting involved. There are over 400 clubs and organizations available that offer something for everyone. Some popular clubs and organizations include Women in Medicine and Science, Arizona Club Golf, Ramblers Hiking Club, Arizona SkyVats Skydiving Club, Wildcat Formula Racing, and Arizona Swing Club. There are also 12 Greek-letter organizations.
Sports fans, there is something at U of A for you too. The University of Arizona has 18 collegiate sports offerings and is in the NCAA Pac-12 conference. Their teams have won 22 National Championships.
Alumni of the University of Arizona join stars like Rob Gronkowski, Kristen Wiig, Kourtney Kardashian, Jerry Bruckheimer, Amanda Beard, and Gilbert Arenas.
The decision of where to attend school also includes the best places to live in Arizona. U of A is in Tucson located in southern Arizona, about an hour from the Mexico border. It is Arizona’s second-largest city and is known for its culture and great southwestern fare. In fact, it is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy with food culture dating back 4,000 years. The combination of Mexican and Native American traditions is one you need to experience for yourself. Tucson puts its residents in the heart of the Sonoran Desert offering historical sites and outdoor excursions. This area is also very popular for golf as there are more than 40 courses in this region.
Video: THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA PROS AND CONS!! // WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!!
The University of Arizona is a top pick for colleges in the country. So, how does ASU compare?
Arizona State University
Arizona State University was founded in 1886, well before Arizona was a state. It has been voted the “Most Innovative” university 6 years in a row and the #1 best online bachelor’s in business programs (2023) by the U.S. News & World Report. It has also been ranked #1 in the world for International Trade and Journalism and a Top 25 U.S. school for first-year experiences.
The Tempe campus is home to over 54,000 students with an additional 80,000+ students attending online or another campus location. This schedule is ideal for those who enjoy big campuses and room to roam. ASU offers over 400 undergraduate majors and 590 graduate degrees, including several accelerated programs. Online students have access to nearly 300 degree programs and certificates. ASU also features 85 degree programs in the top 25 in the US, 38 of which rank in the country’s top 10.
ASU boasts 16 colleges and schools offering majors like Computer Science, Business Management, Construction Engineering, Entrepreneurship, and Graphic Design. It also is home to Barrett, the Honors College. Barrett has been named the best honors college in the nation and has more National Merit Scholars than MIT, Duke, Brown, Stanford, or UCLA. Students in the honors college benefit from an exclusive $12 million endowment. Students at ASU also have an opportunity to participate in a Global Education program with more than 300 programs in 65 countries. Study abroad opportunities can help students learn language skills, and leadership skills, and enhance global awareness.
Student life at ASU includes more than 1,000 student clubs and organizations. From ROTC, Aikido, Art, Figure Skating, and Performing to Greek Life, Service, Student Leadership, and beyond, you can find a way to get involved. Clubs are the perfect way to make a big campus feel more personal and help you build connections to create your own college community.
The ASU Red Devils are also well known for their athleticism. There are 650 student-athletes across 26 varsity sports programs including women’s water polo, gymnastics, triathlon, golf, and gymnastics, and Men’s football, golf, wrestling, and hockey. ASU holds 24 NCAA team national championships and is a part of the PAC 12.
The loud and proud Alumni of ASU number over 400,000 worldwide. In 2021, the university generated an economic impact of over $4 billion on the Arizona State gross product. Notable ASU alumni include Jimmy Kimmel, Phil Mickelson, Kate Spade, David Spade, Barry Bonds, Pat Tilman, and Brenda Strong.
In the battle of the University of Arizona vs Arizona State University, how does Tempe rank? Tempe sits just 20 minutes east of Phoenix. It has all the perks of being a college town with all the benefits of being near a major metropolitan area. Tempe features a 25-acre lake that’s perfect for boating, kayaks, and paddle boards. It also features a 7-mile loop for walking, running, or biking and enjoying the gorgeous Arizona weather. Downtown Tempe features several great restaurants and bars and is ideal for hopping from place to place. Tempe also hosts spring training at the Diablo Stadium as well as several outdoor festivals. Students also often frequent the Phoenix and Scottsdale areas. These locations are hot spots for high-end resorts, spectacular golfing, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
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Application Process and Deadlines
The application process for both UA and ASU is quite simple, although there are a few variations in the requirements and deadlines. Prospective students have the option to apply to UA either through the Common Application or the UA application portal.
- The deadline to submit your application for fall admission is May 1.
- SAT/ACT scores must be received by May 2.
- Notification date: On a rolling basis beginning August 15.
If you want to be considered for a merit scholarship, it is recommended to submit your application by the priority deadline in December. Along with the application form, students are required to provide their high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Arizona State University also accepts the Common Application, in addition to its own application portal.
- The application deadline to apply for fall admission is rolling.
- Notification date: On a rolling basis beginning August 1.
Along with the application form, students are required to provide their high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Candidates for ASU must also use the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) system to provide information about their high school coursework and grades. Both institutions provide application fee waivers for students who demonstrate financial need.
Admission Requirements and Criteria
Admission requirements for the University of Arizona (UA) and Arizona State University (ASU) share similarities but also have some notable differences. Here's a detailed look at what each university values and expects from prospective students:
University of Arizona Admission
The University of Arizona places significant importance on a student's high school GPA, reflecting their overall academic performance. Class rank is also considered, providing context to the student's performance relative to their peers. UA emphasizes standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) more heavily, often using them as a key criterion in their admissions process.
The rigor of the high school curriculum is scrutinized, with preference given to students who have taken advanced placement (AP), honors, or international baccalaureate (IB) courses.
While personal statements and letters of recommendation are optional components, they can help bolster an application by providing insights into the student’s personality, goals, and experiences.
Involvement in extracurricular activities, although not the primary focus, can also enhance an application.
Arizona State University Admission
Like UA, Arizona State University considers GPA an important indicator of a student’s academic abilities and takes class rank into account to provide a comparative measure of the student’s performance. While ASU considers SAT or ACT scores, it places less emphasis on them compared to UA.
The university values the rigor of the high school curriculum, looking for students who have challenged themselves academically. ASU adopts a more comprehensive review process, placing significant value on leadership experience demonstrated through roles in school or community organizations.
Community involvement, shown by engagement in community service or projects, indicates a commitment to contributing to society. Personal achievements, whether academic, artistic, or athletic, are also taken into account.
Besides that, personal statements and letters of recommendation provide further context about the student's experiences and aspirations.
Additional Insights Into The Admission Process
Acceptance Rates:
- ASU typically has a higher acceptance rate (90%) compared to UA (87%), making it slightly less competitive.
Transfer Students:
- Expected to meet certain requirements at both universities.
- These requirements typically involve completing specific courses and maintaining a minimum college GPA.
International Students:
- Both UA and ASU warmly welcome international students.
- Additional requirements include English proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS and credential evaluations.
Honors Colleges and Special Programs:
- Both universities provide honors colleges and special programs that may have additional admission requirements.
- These programs frequently offer additional academic opportunities and resources for students who excel.
Application Deadlines:
University of Arizona:
- Due date: May 1
- Common Application Accepted: Yes
- Early Decision Deadline: N/A
- Required Standardized Tests: Either SAT or ACT required for some
- SAT/ACT Scores Must Be Received By: May 2
- Notification Date: On a rolling basis beginning August 15
Arizona State University:
- Due date: Rolling
- Common Application Accepted: Yes
- Early Decision Deadline: N/A
- Required Standardized Tests: N/A
- SAT/ACT Scores Must Be Received By: N/A
- Notification Date: On a rolling basis beginning August 1
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Both the University of Arizona (UA) and Arizona State University (ASU) are committed to making higher education affordable and accessible. They offer a wide range of financial aid options including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans. Here's a comprehensive guide to navigating the financial aid process at both universities.
| Criteria | ASU | UA |
| Average Need-Based Scholarship or Grant Award | $13,649 | $16,233 |
| Average Non-Need-Based Scholarship or Grant Award | $9,185 | $12,787 |
| Average Need-Based Financial Aid Package (First-year) | $16,985 | $19,678 |
| Average Total Indebtedness of 2022 Graduating Class | $23,515 | $25,078 |
| Applied for Need-Based Aid | 70.2% | 66.2% |
| Need Was Fully Met | 17.6% | 18.1% |
| Average Need-Based Financial Aid Package (Undergraduates) | $16,382 | $16,153 |
| Separate Application Form Required | No | No |
| Application Deadlines | Fall - May 1; Spring - Nov. 1; Summer - Feb. 1 | Fall - May 15; Spring - Oct. 15; Summer - March 15 |
Types of Financial Aid
There are various types of financial aid available to assist students in managing the costs of higher education. Here are the main categories of financial aid provided by UA and ASU.
Scholarships
Both UA and ASU offer numerous scholarships based on various criteria. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership experience, community service, and other accomplishments, with examples including the UA Wildcat Excellence Scholarship and ASU's New American University Scholarship.
Need-based scholarships are awarded based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA. Specific departments within the universities may offer departmental scholarships based on your major or field of study. Additionally, many private organizations and foundations offer external scholarships that can be used at UA or ASU.
Grants
These are typically need-based and do not need to be repaid. Federal grants include Pell Grants and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG), while state grants in Arizona include the Arizona Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (AzLEAP).
Both UA and ASU also provide their own institutional grant programs to assist students with financial need.
Work-Study Programs
These programs provide part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for college expenses. Both UA and ASU participate in the Federal Work-Study Program.
Career Services and Alumni Network
Both the University of Arizona (UA) and Arizona State University (ASU) offer resources to support students in their academic and professional journeys. They help connect students with alumni mentors, explore career paths, and find job opportunities.
The UA Alumni Association provides a network of mentors who offer career development advice, job search strategies, and industry insights. They also organize networking events, career seminars, and alumni panels to connect students with successful professionals.
Similarly, ASU’s Alumni Association offers mentoring, job leads, and professional guidance. They host networking events and alumni talks, providing students with valuable connections and career advice.
Companies that most frequently hire graduates from Arizona State University:
- Wells Fargo
- Microsoft Corporation, Inc
- Arizona Department of Child Safety
- Target
- Deloitte
- Apple
Companies that most frequently hire graduates from University of Arizona:
- Bank of America Merrill Lynch
- Wells Fargo
- AXA Advisors
- KPMG
- Charles Schwab
- Protiviti
Settle the Score: U of A vs ASU
So, what is the score in the battle between ASU vs U of A? It all depends on what you are looking for. Students often ask, “Where should I go to college?” but the truth is, only you can decide which school is best for you. Each student needs to identify what colleges offer and how it will help them to be the most successful. You also need to consider which schools offer your ideal major(s), minors, location, size, living quarters, student life, and beyond.
If you have narrowed down your top schools to the University of Arizona vs ASU, here are a few more stats that you need to know.
Is ASU or U of A Bigger?
In the size competition of ASU vs U of A, ASU is much larger. ASU has one of the largest student body populations at over 54,000 at the Tempe campus, compared to the UOFA population of approximately 38,000.
Is ASU or U of A Easier To Get In To?
The ASU acceptance rate in 2021 was 88.2% compared to The University of Arizona rate of 87.3%. Both universities rate high above the average US national acceptance rate of 68%.
Is ASU or U of A More Expensive?
The University of Arizona vs ASU cost is also an important aspect of many students’ decisions. The average cost after aid at The University of Arizona is $13,358 compared to $13,107 at ASU. Fortunately, both schools cost about the same so this won’t be a deciding factor unless one school offers more in scholarships or via individual financial aid letters.
Is ASU or U of A Ranked Higher?
The University of Arizona is ranked #105 of National Universities compared to #121 Arizona State University. However, the graduation rate at ASU is 66.9% compared to the University of Arizona’s 64%. Therefore, the traditional ranking system seems to be inconclusive.
Final Thoughts
The competition between the University of Arizona vs Arizona State University is a tough one. Both universities offer an excellent education with some terrific perks. Many students love the large campus feel of ASU while others may prefer a more mid-size feel at the University of Arizona. Both campuses also have ranked highly, but for different reasons. It all comes down to deciding what features of each campus you like better.
When it comes time to fill out your college applications, it is a good idea to cast a wide net. Apply to any school you may be interested in actually attending. Many students need some extra help when it comes to finding the right school or gaining acceptance into the nation’s top universities.
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