US University · Ranked #62
University of Arizona: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
University of Arizona is an accessible university in Tucson, Arizona with an acceptance rate of roughly 87%, meaning most qualified applicants are admitted. Ranked #62 nationally in our dataset, it is a strong choice for a likely or safety school: meeting the published academic minimums and applying before the deadline puts most students in good standing.
The University of Arizona is a leading research institution known for its space sciences, optical sciences, and a vibrant campus in the Sonoran Desert.
This guide breaks down University of Arizona's admission requirements, the academic profile of admitted students, how its application deadlines should shape your strategy, and the programs it is best known for — followed by answers to the questions applicants ask most.
University of Arizona admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 87%
- SAT range
- 1070–1310
- Average GPA
- 3.4
- In-state
- $12,887
- Out-of-state
- $38,217
- Enrollment
- 36,503
- Type
- Public
- Location
- Tucson, Arizona
How hard is it to get into University of Arizona?
An acceptance rate of 87% makes University of Arizona an accessible school where most qualified applicants are offered admission. For students who meet the published academic minimums, this functions as a likely or safety option. The priority is a complete, accurate, on-time application rather than a polished competitive narrative.
University of Arizona is a sensible likely or safety school. Confirm you meet the stated minimums, submit your application early in the cycle, and keep it clean and complete.
Academic profile of admitted students
Admitted students at University of Arizona typically score between 1070 and 1310 on the SAT — this is the middle 50% range, so a quarter of enrolled students scored below 1070 and a quarter above 1310. A score at or above 1310 is competitive even at the more selective end of the pool. Alongside test scores, the average GPA of admitted students is approximately 3.4 on a 4.0 scale, indicating that successful applicants generally earned mostly A's in a rigorous course load.
As a planning benchmark, aim for an SAT around 1190 or higher and a GPA at or near 3.4. Scores meaningfully below the 25th percentile (1070) are not disqualifying on their own, but they put more weight on the rest of the application to compensate.
University of Arizonaapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Regular Decision: Rolling
University of Arizona uses rolling admissions rather than a single fixed deadline: applications are reviewed as they arrive and decisions are released on a continuous basis until the class fills. The strategic implication is simple — apply as early as you reasonably can. Waiting reduces the number of remaining seats and, at some schools, the financial aid and housing still available.
Because review is continuous, prioritize accuracy and completeness over a long polishing cycle: a complete application submitted early generally beats a marginally better one submitted late.
Notable programs at University of Arizona
- Astronomy — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
- Optical Sciences — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
- Nursing — a clinical pathway with prerequisite coursework and, in some cases, separate admission.
- Engineering — typically a more selective track with specific math and science prerequisites.
- Business — often admitted directly into a named school with its own requirements.
University of Arizona is particularly known for Astronomy, Optical Sciences, Nursing, Engineering, and Business.
Strong programs matter for admissions because many schools admit by college or major, and a credible, specific interest in one of these areas — reflected in your coursework, activities, and essays — is far more persuasive than a generic application.
Cost of attending University of Arizona
As a public institution with separate in-state and out-of-state tuition, University of Arizona costs significantly less for Arizona residents: in-state tuition is about $12,887 per year versus roughly $38,217 for out-of-state students — a difference of around $25,330 annually. If you are not an Arizona resident, factor the higher rate into your list, and check whether the school offers merit scholarships or regional exchange programs that narrow the gap.
Tuition is only part of the cost — add room, board, fees, and personal expenses for a realistic total — but the in-state advantage makes University of Arizona an especially strong value for state residents.
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University of Arizona: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at University of Arizona?
- University of Arizona has an acceptance rate of 87%, which makes it accessible. University of Arizona is a sensible likely or safety school. Confirm you meet the stated minimums, submit your application early in the cycle, and keep it clean and complete.
- What SAT score do you need for University of Arizona?
- Admitted students at University of Arizona typically score between 1070 and 1310 on the SAT (the middle 50%). Aiming for 1310 or above makes you competitive, while a score below 1070 puts more weight on the rest of your application.
- What GPA do you need to get into University of Arizona?
- The average GPA of admitted students at University of Arizona is approximately 3.4 on a 4.0 scale. Competitive applicants generally have mostly A's in a rigorous course load; a GPA at or near 3.4 is the practical target.
- What is the application deadline for University of Arizona?
- University of Arizona uses rolling admissions, reviewing applications as they arrive rather than by a single deadline. Apply as early as you can — seats, aid, and housing diminish over the cycle.
- Is University of Arizona a public or private university?
- University of Arizona is a public university. In-state students from Arizona pay significantly less than out-of-state students.
- How much does it cost to attend University of Arizona?
- As a public institution with separate in-state and out-of-state tuition, University of Arizona costs significantly less for Arizona residents: in-state tuition is about $12,887 per year versus roughly $38,217 for out-of-state students — a difference of around $25,330 annually. If you are not an Arizona resident, factor the higher rate into your list, and check whether the school offers merit scholarships or regional exchange programs that narrow the gap.