Arizona State University Scholarships (2025–2026)
← Back to the Public University Scholarships hub • See Arizona state aid
- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
- Competitive and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~ 89% (recent CDS trend; most-recent official not yet posted for 2025–26)
- Testing: ACT/SAT not required; scores may be submitted
- Average HS GPA (unweighted): 3.42 (recent ASU data)
- Middle 50% ACT/SAT: Not officially published for 2025–26; varies by campus/program
Source basis: ASU Institutional Analysis/Admissions pages; ASU is test-optional and does not publish a single middle-50% for all programs.
Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
ASU at a Glance
Last verified: October 14, 2025
Arizona State University actively rewards high-achieving students, including many from out of state. ASU’s automatic merit model means that many students with strong GPAs qualify for New American University scholarships without a separate application.
This guide helps families see what “real cost” might look like, how merit awards stack with honors/unit awards, and how to maximize value across ASU’s campuses.
FAQ
Is ASU test-optional? Yes — ACT/SAT are not required for admission; scores may be submitted for placement or to strengthen merit review.
What’s the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ASU does not publish a single middle-50% range across all campuses/programs for 2025–26; ranges vary.
What’s the estimated average net price? ~ $16,400 (average after aid; individual net prices vary).
Does ASU offer WUE or reciprocity? WUE is available only for students admitted through Spring 2026; for new admits starting Fall 2026, ASU replaces WUE with the ASU Commitment Scholarship for nonresident first-years.
When do classes start? Fall 2025 classes begin Aug 21, 2025; Spring 2026 classes begin Jan 12, 2026 (ASU academic calendar).
https://tuition.asu.edu/financial-aid/scholarships
https://financialaid.asu.edu/estimator
https://barretthonors.asu.edu/cost-aid/scholarships
https://admission.asu.edu/cost-aid/wue
https://news.asu.edu/b/20241105-applications-barrett-honors-college-student-scholarships-now-open
https://www.meetyourclass.com/asu/cost
https://tuition.asu.edu/asu-commitment-scholarship
https://talk.collegeconfidential.com/t/new-american-university-scholar-presidents-scholarship/3694114
https://yourfuture.asu.edu/importantdeadlines
https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/edu/104151/arizona-state-university-tempe/tuition/
https://admission.asu.edu/cost-aid/resident-first-year
https://opportunitydesk.org/2025/10/10/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program-at-arizona-state-university-2026/
https://tuition.asu.edu/new-american-university
https://www.statepress.com/article/2025/10/politics-wue-termination-new-scholarship
💰 Cost of Attendance at Arizona State University (2025–2026)
The figures below show direct, billed costs for full-time undergraduates living on campus at ASU for two semesters. These include base tuition, mandatory fees, additional college/student-initiated fees, and on-campus housing & meals.
| In-State (AZ resident) | Out-of-State / Nonresident | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Mandatory + College & Student Fees | $11,822 (base + mandatory fees) | $36,947 (base + college & student fees) |
| Housing & Meals (on-campus) | $17,754 | $17,754 |
| Total (Direct/Billed) | $29,576 | $54,701 |
Why only these items? We include only the amounts you actually pay ASU directly — base tuition + required fees + housing & meal plan. Indirect costs like books, transportation, supplies, and personal expenses vary and are not billed by the university.
📉 Average Net Price (after aid)
Based on ASU / external sources, the average net price at ASU is ~$16,400 per year after grants and scholarships (excluding loans). For a more precise estimate, use ASU’s Net Price Calculator.
ASU participates in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) for eligible majors at the Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, and West Valley campuses. Under WUE, nonresidents pay ~150% of the in-state base rate.
Important: WUE eligibility ends for new admits starting **Fall 2026**, and the ASU Commitment Scholarship will replace it for nonresidents.
High-achieving out-of-state students may receive **$15,000 – $18,000** (or more) in automatic merit scholarships through ASU’s New American University program, which can substantially lower their net cost. (This is a typical range, not a guarantee.)
FAQ — Understanding ASU Costs
Why is the out-of-state total nearly double the in-state amount?
Nonresident tuition reflects the full cost of instruction for students not supported by Arizona state taxes. However, ASU’s New American University scholarships often reduce that gap by $15,000–$18,000 per year for strong applicants.
What does the “Total (Direct/Billed)” number include?
Only tuition, mandatory university fees, and on-campus housing and meal plans—what families actually pay ASU directly. It does not include personal, travel, or textbook costs.
How does the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) work at ASU?
Through WUE, qualified nonresidents in specific majors and campuses (Downtown, Polytechnic, West Valley) pay about 150% of the in-state base tuition instead of the full nonresident rate. WUE ends after Spring 2026 for new admits.
What replaces WUE after 2026?
Starting with Fall 2026 admits, ASU will replace WUE with the ASU Commitment Scholarship, offering new merit-based discounts for nonresident freshmen.
Does ASU charge extra fees for specific majors?
Yes. Certain colleges—like Engineering, Business, and the Arts—add small college- or program-based fees on top of base tuition. Those are already included in the figures above.
How accurate are the housing and meal numbers?
The $17,754 estimate uses a standard first-year residence hall and dining plan. Actual costs vary by campus, hall, and meal package, but this figure represents a typical on-campus setup.
What does “average net price” mean for ASU families?
It’s what families actually paid after scholarships and grants—not loans. The average is about $16,400 per year (IPEDS data), but individual costs depend heavily on GPA, FAFSA results, and scholarship eligibility.
Can students establish Arizona residency to lower tuition later?
It’s rare. Arizona has strict rules—most dependent students must have a parent living and paying taxes in Arizona for at least a year before the term begins. Plan your budget around nonresident pricing unless you clearly qualify.
https://students.asu.edu/yourtuition
https://tuition.asu.edu/cost
https://www.azregents.edu/sites/default/files/reports/2025-26-Board-Approved-Base-Tuition-and-Fees.pdf
https://www.meetyourclass.com/asu/cost
https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/edu/104151/arizona-state-university-tempe/tuition/
https://tuition.asu.edu/new-american-university
https://admission.asu.edu/cost-aid/wue
https://www.statepress.com/article/2025/10/politics-wue-termination-new-scholarship
https://tuition.asu.edu/asu-commitment-scholarship
https://housing.asu.edu/move-in
https://housing.asu.edu/node?page=2
https://admission.asu.edu/cost-aid/resident-first-year
https://tuition.asu.edu/financial-aid/scholarships
https://admission.asu.edu/cost-aid/non-resident-first-year
https://www.sofi.com/arizona-state-university-tuition-and-fees/
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships — Arizona State University (2025–2026)
(Submitting test scores is optional but can boost your award.)
| Scholarship Tier | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| President’s / Provost’s Awards | $15,500–$17,500 / yr | Top nonresident admits based on GPA in ASU competency courses and overall rigor. Test scores (if sent by May 1) can boost award amount. | No | Yes — up to 8 semesters | High-achieving nonresident admits, often with ~3.9+ GPA or strong test scores; amounts vary by campus/college. | May 1 (test score deadline) |
| Dean’s / University / Academic Achievement | $10,000–$13,500 / yr | Strong nonresident admits; GPA in ASU competency courses and overall academic record drive awards. Amounts differ by campus/college. | No | Yes — up to 8 semesters | Solid nonresident admits with GPA around 3.6–3.8; test scores optional but can strengthen offers. | May 1 (test score deadline) |
Note: Award levels vary by campus, major, and final admitted GPA. ASU automatically reviews admitted students for NAMU awards through May 1. Test scores are optional but can increase offers if received by that date.
Automatic Scholarship FAQs
Do I need to apply separately?
No. ASU automatically reviews all admitted students for merit awards. For best results, apply early and send any test scores by May 1.
Are ACT/SAT scores required?
No. They’re optional for admission and scholarships, but submitting them by May 1 can raise your NAMU award tier.
Are awards renewable?
Yes — typically for eight consecutive semesters, provided you meet renewal criteria such as GPA and full-time enrollment.
Can these stack with other aid?
Usually yes, but awards can’t exceed tuition. WUE participants follow separate rules and can’t combine WUE with other ASU nonresident NAMU scholarships.
What are the GPA/test cutoffs?
ASU does not publish fixed cutoffs for each tier. Use the ASU Scholarship Estimator to see likely awards for your student’s academic profile.
https://tuition.asu.edu/new-american-university
https://financialaid.asu.edu/estimator
https://talk.collegeconfidential.com/t/new-american-university-scholar-presidents-scholarship/3694114
https://tuition.asu.edu/financial-aid/scholarships
https://tuition.asu.edu/scholarship-renewal-guide
https://asu.my.salesforce-sites.com/kb/articles/FAQ/How-do-I-renew-my-Merit-Scholarship/?l=en_US&fs=RelatedArticle
🏆 Competitive Scholarships — Arizona State University
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leadership Scholarship Program (LSP) | Approximately $9,000 per year + leadership development, retreats, and service projects | Arizona residents with a record of sustained leadership and service; minimum 3.25 unweighted GPA; must enroll full-time at ASU in fall. | Yes — separate application with essays & resume | Yes (renewable 4 years with good standing) | Students deeply involved in civic engagement, peer mentoring, or service leadership—not necessarily perfect GPAs. | Dec 1 (2024 for 2025 entry) |
| President Barack Obama Scholar Program | Covers full ASU tuition & fees plus a standard allowance for housing and meals (first-year and Barrett sophomores) | Arizona residents who are Pell-eligible and meet ASU freshman admission requirements; must maintain ≥ 2.50 GPA for renewal. | No separate application (required: ASU admission + FAFSA) | Yes — up to 8 semesters with continued need & Satisfactory Academic Progress | Arizona students from low-income families who file the FAFSA early and commit to full-time enrollment each semester. | Admission & FAFSA by Feb 1 (2025) for 2025–26 consideration |
| Spirit of Service Scholars Program | $5,000 (one-year award) + mentorship & public policy training | Outstanding undergraduate or graduate students from any discipline with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a commitment to public service or policy. | Yes — application through ASU Watts College of Public Service | No (1-year non-renewable) | Upper-division or graduate students active in civic engagement, nonprofit leadership, or policy advocacy. | Late March (typically around Mar 25) |
Competitive Scholarship FAQs
Is the Leadership Scholarship Program only for perfect students?
No. LSP focuses on authentic leadership and community impact more than test scores or a 4.0 GPA. Students with sustained service and strong recommendations stand out.
How do I apply for these scholarships?
– LSP: Apply separately through ASU Scholarships Portal by Dec 1 with essays and a resume.
– Obama Scholars: Submit the ASU admission application and FAFSA by Feb 1 (2025).
– Spirit of Service: Apply through the Watts College portal by late March each year.
Can these awards stack with automatic merit scholarships?
Sometimes. Institutional funds generally stack up to the cost of attendance, but always review your award letter for specific language (e.g., “may replace NAMU award”).
Are test scores required?
Not for LSP or Spirit of Service. They are holistic and essay-based. Obama Scholars is need-based only.
When should students apply?
LSP by Dec 1; Obama Scholars by Feb 1 (FAFSA + ASU application); Spirit of Service by late March.
How can students strengthen their applications?
Use the Essay Toolkit for writing help and the Brag Sheet Builder to organize leadership and service records before applying.
https://eoss.asu.edu/lsp
https://eoss.asu.edu/lsp/scholarship
https://collegereadyparent.org/arizona-state-university-scholarships/
https://publicservice.asu.edu/soss
https://tuition.asu.edu/special-financial-assistance-programs-arizona-residents
https://asu.my.salesforce-sites.com/kb/articles/FAQ/What-is-the-Obama-Scholars-Program
https://www.asufoundation.org/changing-futures/empower-community-resilience/spirit-of-service-scholars-endowment-CA109946.html
https://asufoundation.org/changing-futures/empower-community-resilience/spirit-of-service-scholars-CA104539.html
https://yourfuture.asu.edu/importantdeadeadlines
Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University
Admission to Barrett is not automatic. Even top students with large automatic merit must complete a separate application. Barrett uses a holistic review (no fixed GPA/test cutoffs). Essays, recommendations, academic context, and intellectual fit matter.
Barrett is widely regarded as one of the leading public honors colleges. Students access small seminars, priority registration, dedicated housing, research and thesis support, and faculty mentoring. ~7,700+ Barrett students are enrolled across ASU’s campuses.
| Scholarship | Typical Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barrett Scholarships (general, donor-funded) | Often $1,000–$5,000; some specific awards list amounts (e.g., $2,500; up to $5,500) | Admitted or prospective Barrett students; criteria vary by donor (merit, need, major, leadership, first-gen, AZ resident, etc.) | Yes (via Scholarship Universe; “Barrett” search) | Varies by award | Competitive Barrett applicants/students who match donor criteria and submit strong apps | Opens Nov 1 • Closes Feb 1 (for next AY) |
| Barrett Travel & Study Abroad Awards | Varies; many awards in the $1,000–$5,000 range | Barrett students proposing approved global/experiential learning | Yes | No (typically one-time) | Students tying travel to academics/service with clear budgets & outcomes | Varies; key Barrett cycle closes Feb 1 |
| Barrett Research & Thesis Funding | Varies (often hundreds to low thousands) | Barrett students with approved, faculty-mentored projects/thesis | Yes | No (one-time) | Students with feasible, well-scoped proposals and faculty support | Rolling by cycle; many close Feb 1 |
| Select Named Awards (examples) | e.g., Gammage $4,500–$5,500; Garcia Family up to $5,000; others $1,000–$2,500 | Criteria vary (National Scholar status, first-gen, major, campus, service, etc.) | Yes (Scholarship Universe) | Some renewable | Applicants who directly match the donor’s profile and submit strong apps | Feb 1 |
Honors College — FAQs (Arizona State University)
Is ASU merit the same as Barrett admission?
No. Barrett is a separate, selective process. University merit awards do not guarantee Barrett admission.
Are there GPA or test score cutoffs?
No fixed cutoffs. Recent admitted first-year averages are ~3.82 unweighted GPA. For first-years, Barrett is test-optional; for transfers/current ASU students, Barrett is test-blind. Scores reported to ASU aren’t used by Barrett; applicants may self-report scores in the Barrett app for context.
Do Barrett students get extra scholarships?
Yes—Barrett administers 50+ donor scholarships (millions awarded annually), plus travel/thesis funds. Most Barrett scholarship applications open Nov 1 and close Feb 1; applicants must be admitted to Barrett by early March to receive funds.
Deadlines to know?
For the next cycle, Barrett scholarships typically open Nov 1 and close Feb 1; to receive awards, students must be admitted to Barrett by early March (exact date posted each year).
https://barretthonors.asu.edu/cost-aid/scholarships
https://barretthonors.asu.edu/admissions/first-year-student
https://news.asu.edu/b/20241105-applications-barrett-honors-college-student-scholarships-now-open
https://barretthonors.asu.edu/why-barrett/faqs
https://barretthonors.asu.edu/academics/academic-awards
https://barretthonors.asu.edu/academics/academic-awards
https://barretthonors.asu.edu/cost-aid/additional-resources
https://www.collegedata.com/scholarship-finder/270246
https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/asus-honors-college-drops-sat-act-requirement
https://barretthonors.asu.edu/admissions/transfer-student
⭐ College Specialty
Arizona State University is one of the largest and most innovative public universities in the country. Known for its forward-looking approach, ASU pairs research scale with accessibility—offering nationally ranked programs in business, engineering, sustainability, and journalism. As a public R1 research university, it provides students with access to top faculty, hands-on research, and career pipelines throughout the Phoenix metro area.
Journalism & Mass Communication — ASU has been named the nation’s #1 most innovative university for nine consecutive years, and its Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication consistently ranks among the top journalism programs in the country (U.S. News & World Report 2024).
Why it matters: Cronkite students gain newsroom experience in one of America’s fastest-growing media markets, producing real-time content for Arizona PBS and other outlets alongside award-winning faculty.
- Business (W. P. Carey School of Business) — Top 30 undergraduate business program nationwide; #3 in online MBA (U.S. News 2024).
- Engineering (Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering) — Among the largest in the U.S.; Top 40 undergraduate engineering schools (U.S. News 2024).
- Law (Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law) — Ranked #32 nationally and #1 in Arizona (U.S. News 2024).
- Earth & Environmental Sciences — Top 25 globally for Earth Sciences (ARWU Global Rankings 2023).
- Sustainability (School of Sustainability) — First stand-alone program of its kind in the U.S.; internationally recognized for climate research and policy leadership.
- Public Affairs (Watts College of Public Service & Community Solutions) — #10 nationally for Public Affairs (U.S. News 2024).