12 Best Colleges In Arizona For International Students | How To Apply

Deciding to study in another country can change your life, and Arizona has great colleges for students from around the world. But picking the right college and figuring out how to apply can be tricky. There are lots of choices, so it’s important to get the right info to make good decisions.

For students coming from other countries, the college you pick matters for your learning and personal development. It’s important to choose a college that is friendly and supportive to international students for a positive college experience.

In this article, we’ll talk about the 12 best colleges in Arizona for international students. We’ll give you useful information and advice on how to go through the application process.

If you’re dreaming about studying in the beautiful state of Arizona, just keep reading. We’ll help you find the perfect college for you.

Is Arizona Good For International Students?

Arizona could be a great place for students from other countries. It has good universities like Arizona State University (ASU), the University of Arizona, and Northern Arizona University. These schools offer many different programs, and lots of students from all over the world go there.

The weather in Arizona is diverse, with hot summers and mild winters in most places. If you like warm weather, it’s a good fit. But the desert climate might not be for everyone, so it’s important to think about what you like.

Arizona has many different people, and its cities have lots of cultural events and activities. This can make it a cool experience for international students. Before deciding, it’s important to check out specific universities, think about what you want in a school, and understand the rules for students from other countries in Arizona. Talking to students who are already there can also help you decide.

Factors To Consider While Choosing A College In Arizona

Picking the right college in Arizona as an international student is a big decision that affects your school journey and future. Here are some things to think about when looking at your options:

Academic Programs and Majors:

Look at the different subjects and majors each college offers. Make sure they have what you’re interested in and what you want to study for your future job. Check how good the teachers are in those subjects, what they specialize in, and if there are chances for research.

Read Also: Best Computer Science Universities in USA for International Students

Location and Campus:

Think about where the college is. Do you like busy cities or quieter places? Choose a location that matches your lifestyle. Also, check out what the campus is like. Are there clubs or activities you’re interested in? Make sure the college has things you enjoy outside of classes.

Cultural Diversity and International Student Support

Check if the college has a lot of different students from different places and see if they have good support for students from other countries. A friendly campus that includes everyone helps you feel like you belong and makes it easier to adjust.

Look at the costs and if there’s help with money

See how much it costs to go to the college, including living expenses. Also, find out if there are scholarships or financial aid to help with the overall cost. Check if there are opportunities to work while studying or find part-time jobs.

See what fun things you can do outside of classes

Check out the clubs, sports, and groups at the college that match what you like. Having a lively student life that goes along with your studies helps you grow personally.

When you decide on a college in Arizona, remember it’s not just about classes. It’s about picking a place where you can be part of a community that helps you grow, shares different cultures, and gets you ready for a successful future.

12 Best Colleges In Arizona For International Students

We figured out the top colleges in Arizona for international students by looking at important stuff like classes, getting in, cost, and student life. We used info from the U.S. Department of Education and checked lots of reviews from good websites like Niche and US News.

Here are the 12 best colleges in Arizona for international students:

1. University of Arizona

Cost: $37,355 (for students from outside Arizona), $12,937 (for Arizona residents)

In the lively city of Tucson, the University of Arizona is a top choice among Arizona colleges for students from around the world. The campus is welcoming and diverse, offering programs designed for global learners. International students can explore cutting-edge research and join various cultural clubs, creating a supportive community. With excellent professors, modern facilities, and a focus on innovation, the University of Arizona offers an exciting educational experience for those who want to make a positive impact globally.

2. Arizona State University

Tuition is around $34,398.

ASU is all about being innovative and working together worldwide. They have campuses in different parts of the state, offering lots of programs in arts, sciences, engineering, and business.

The teachers at ASU are experts who bring a lot of passion to their classes, making sure you get a top-notch education. But it’s not just about books – ASU goes beyond regular learning. They focus on making a real impact through research, community work, and internships. The campus is like a big family that welcomes everyone, celebrating differences and making it a great place for international students. ASU is dedicated to being excellent and globally aware, making it a fantastic choice for your academic journey.

3. Northern Arizona University (NAU)

Cost of attending: $11,352 (for local students), $28,600 (for international students)

Northern Arizona University (NAU) really likes students from different countries. They have many programs for you to choose from, like art, education, engineering, forestry, social science, and business. NAU’s campus is lively, and you can also explore the outdoors. They want to make sure you get a good education and feel supported, making NAU a great choice for people who want to learn a lot and enjoy nature at the same time.

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4. Grand Canyon University (GCU)

Cost: $16,500 for everyone, whether you’re from Arizona or not.

Grand Canyon University (GCU) is in the middle of Phoenix, and it has students from all different backgrounds. It’s one of the top colleges in Arizona. They give you three ways to learn: you can go to classes on campus, take evening classes, or do online degree programs.

If you want to save money on your education, GCU has different scholarships available. These can help you pay less for your studies if you meet certain requirements.

5. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

The cost for international students at Embry-Riddle is $44,324.

Embry-Riddle is a university where you can learn by doing things. From the first day you arrive on campus, you’ll do hands-on activities. You can study the sky, work on launching rockets, practice handling conflicts in a special room, and even design airlines, networks, and fleets to help your brain grow.

What’s cool about this university is that the teachers are experts in the field. They have real-world experience and share that with students. The focus here is on learning by doing, especially in aviation and aerospace. According to U.S. News & World Report, it’s ranked as the 5th best Aerospace Engineering program. This makes it a special and unique choice for international students looking for the best colleges in Arizona.

6. Thunderbird School of Global Management (ASU)

Tuition at Thunderbird varies: $12,398 per year for Arizona residents, $31,238 for non-residents, and $36,699 for international students.

Discovering the Best college in Arizona for international students? Look no further than Thunderbird, linked with Arizona State University. It stands out for global management education.

At Thunderbird, you step into a diverse campus where students from everywhere come together to learn about international business and management. What sets Thunderbird apart is its hands-on focus. It goes beyond just theory, emphasizing real-world learning through experiences and global immersion programs.

7. Prescott College

Cost: $32,976

Prescott College is not just about sitting in classrooms. They want students to really get involved in what’s around them. The college likes it when students do things like internships, hands-on experiences, and join the community. This helps students get a complete education.

What’s special about Prescott College is how much they care about the environment. They include things like taking care of the environment and being socially responsible in different subjects. This gives students a full view of things.

Read Aso, Top 15 Universities in USA for MS in Computer Science

Prescott College is one of the best colleges in Arizona. They want students to think creatively, work together, and come up with new ideas. The classes are designed to challenge what we already know and think.

8. The College of St. Scholastica

One of the top choices for international students in Arizona, St. Scholastica is well-known for its programs in healthcare and education. The school focuses on practical skills and hands-on learning, helping students gain real-world knowledge. St. Scholastica has strong connections to the healthcare and education industries, providing opportunities for internships and practical experiences.

The school is dedicated to supporting international students with personalized guidance and a welcoming community, making their academic journey smoother.

In a sea of options, St. Scholastica stands out as a pathway to meaningful careers, especially for those aiming for success in healthcare and education.

9. Aspen University

Affordable Tuition: $37,550.00

Aspen wants to give any hardworking student a chance to get a good education without breaking the bank. They provide online courses for different levels of education, from certificates to doctoral degrees. They have schools for nursing, business, technology, education, and general studies. Aspen is accredited, meaning they meet certain educational standards. Their goal is to help students and their families by offering quality education at a reasonable cost.

10. University of Phoenix

Tuition per credit: $398 (undergraduate), $698 (master)

The University of Phoenix stands out as one of the top choices for international students looking for good colleges in Arizona. They focus on helping adults learn and offer high-quality online education. This makes it a great option for international students who want to reach their academic and career goals.

At the University of Phoenix, you can pursue associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. They also have different certificate programs, so you can choose a study path that matches your interests and career aspirations.

11. Benedictine University Mesa

Cost: $34,290

At Benedictine University – Mesa, you’ll find a special educational experience inspired by Catholic traditions. The small class sizes create a close-knit learning environment, allowing students to connect closely with their professors. The curriculum focuses on important values, blending academics with ethics.

This combination of education and spirituality makes Benedictine University – Mesa a great option for anyone looking for a learning adventure that not only stimulates their mind but also enriches their soul.

12. Arizona Christian University

Annual Tuition: $32,898

If you’re an international student looking for the best colleges in Arizona, consider Arizona Christian University. It’s been named one of the nation’s top colleges for seven years in a row by U.S. News & World Report. This university stands out in Arizona for its diverse community based on Christian values.

At Arizona Christian University, you’ll find a mix of programs that combine challenging academics with spiritual development. This unique blend of learning and faith makes ACU special, providing an educational journey that not only stimulates the mind but also nurtures the spirit.

ACU is known for its excellent academics, reasonable tuition costs, and dedication to giving opportunities to students who may not have had access to higher education before. If you’re seeking a welcoming and quality education in Arizona, ACU is worth considering.

How To Apply To Study In Arizona As An International Student

Deciding to study in Arizona as a student from another country might feel a bit overwhelming, but with some careful planning, it can turn into a cool experience. Let’s break down the steps to help you apply to the best colleges in Arizona for international students:

Step 1: Figuring Out What You Like Think about where you’d like to study – maybe the city, the courses they offer, and what the campus is like. Look into what each college needs from you, like tests you might have to take and when you need to apply.

Step 2: Tests and Language Skills Check if the colleges want you to take any tests like SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT, and find out what scores they prefer. Also, see if you need to prove you’re good at English with tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Step 3: Applying to Colleges Fill out the online application forms for the colleges you picked. Make sure you give them all the right info. Get your school records, recommendation letters, essays, and whatever else they ask for ready. Some colleges might need you to pay a fee, so keep track of that.

Step 4: Money Stuff and Scholarships Look into the different ways you can get money to study – like scholarships or financial aid. Check when you need to apply for these and what documents you need to send.

Step 5: Getting Your Visa If a college accepts you, they’ll send you a letter saying so. You’ll need this letter to apply for a student visa. Head to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country to get the visa process started.

You’ll have to show them your acceptance letter, proof that you can afford to study, and fill out some visa forms. Then, get ready for a chat at the visa interview, where they might ask about your study plans and how you’re going to manage financially.

Tips For A Successful Application

To get into the best colleges in Arizona as an international student, you need to be organized and understand what each college wants. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start Early: Begin your application early so you have enough time to finish everything.
2. Tailor Your Essays: Write essays that talk about why you want to go to college, your experiences, and how you can contribute to the college community.
3. Seek Guidance: Ask for help from your school counselors, educational consultants, or the college admissions offices. They can give you advice and support.
4. Proofread: Double-check your application to make sure everything is correct and easy to understand before you submit it.

FAQs On How To Study In Arizona

Which tests can I take to show I’m good at English for Arizona colleges?

Arizona colleges usually accept TOEFL and IELTS scores as proof of English skills. Each college has its own score requirements, so check what they need.

Are there any free money or help for international students in Arizona?

Many Arizona colleges have scholarships or aid for international students. Some are based on grades, some on need, and others on your program. Look into these early because deadlines can be different.

Can I work while studying in Arizona if I’m from another country?

Yes, international students in Arizona can often work part-time on campus. Some colleges might also have programs that let you work off-campus in your study field. Make sure you know the rules and what options you have.

How much money do I need to live in Arizona as an international student?

Living costs can change based on where you are and your lifestyle. Smaller cities like Tucson and Flagstaff might be cheaper than big ones. When planning, think about housing, food, travel, and health insurance.

How do I join activities and meet other international students on campus?

Arizona colleges have clubs, events, and groups where you can connect with other students and enjoy campus life. Look for orientation programs, international student groups, and events that let you meet people from different cultures.