About Arizona State University

Arizona State University is leading the way in next-level higher education. As the top university in the U.S. for innovation for five consecutive years, ASU is creating ways to ensure that all students have access to a high-quality education.

With a commitment to outstanding academics and student access, ASU offers a faculty that includes some of the world’s top experts in their fields, and an academic community and environment designed for any qualified student with a passion for and commitment to learning.

More than 100,000 currently enrolled students from all 50 states in the U.S. and more than 130 countries have chosen ASU as their higher education home. These students are guided and mentored by their professors as they help to find or create solutions to some of the world’s toughest challenges, express their creativity and make a positive impact. With the experience they gain at ASU, students graduate prepared to create a successful future for themselves and to thrive in their endeavors.

Quick overview

Name: Arizona State University (ASU)
Locations: Multiple campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area, plus online programs. The flagship campus is ASU Tempe.
Type: Large public research university system
Founded: 1885 (originally Territorial Normal School; became ASU in 1958)
Motto: “Get down to business” (informal reflection of innovation and impact)
Enrollment: Tens of thousands of undergraduate students across all campuses; one of the largest universities in the U.S.
President (as of 2024–25): Numerous leadership transitions occur; please confirm if you need the current president.

Campuses and locations

Tempe Campus: The primary campus with extensive undergraduate and graduate programs, housing, labs, and student life.
Downtown Phoenix Campus: Programs focused on health, journalism, law, and business outreach; connected to Phoenix Biomedical Campus.
** polytechnic Campus (Mesa/Poly):** Engineering, technology, and STEM-focused programs with rock-bottom class sizes.
West Campus (Glendale): Growing programs and outreach; smaller but expanding.
ASU Online: Nationwide and international online degree programs across many disciplines.
Other facilities: ASU has multiple research centers, satellite campuses, and partnerships (e.g., with community colleges and local industries).

Programs and schools

Colleges within ASU:
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- W.P. Carey School of Business (now just Carey School of Business)
- Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts
- Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
- School of Molecular Sciences
- College of Health Solutions
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation
- College of Education
- Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions
- Barrett, The Honors College
- And more across sciences, journalism, law, and tech
Popular majors: Engineering (especially chemical, mechanical, electrical), biological sciences, business, computer science, psychology, communications, education, design and arts.
Research strengths: engineering, computer science, life sciences, sustainability, energy, health informatics, and social sciences.

Admissions & financial aid

Undergraduate admissions: Competitive but varies by campus and program. Tempe tends to have higher applicant numbers; online programs have their own criteria.
Important factors: GPA, standardized tests (note: many programs have test-optional policies, but some professional programs may require tests or portfolio materials), extracurriculars, and essays for certain schools.
Financial aid: FAFSA required for need-based aid; ASU also offers merit scholarships (varies by college and year), grants, work-study, and departmental scholarships. International students have separate aid considerations.
Deadlines: Vary by campus and program; often fall for fall entry, with spring entries for some programs.

Tuition & costs

In-state vs out-of-state: ASU has different tuition rates for Arizona residents and non-residents; online programs may have different pricing.
Other costs: housing, meals, fees, books, and living expenses vary by campus and lifestyle.
Potential aid impact: Financial aid packages depend on need and merit indicators, as well as campus-specific scholarships.

Rankings & reputation

ASU is widely recognized for innovation and scale. It has earned attention for online education through ASU Online and for expanding access and partnerships. National rankings fluctuate by program, but engineering, business, and education programs are commonly well-regarded regionally and nationally.

Research & innovation

Large public research university with numerous research centers.
Notable initiatives include sustainable energy, materials science, health informatics, and social science research.
Strong entrepreneurial ecosystem; many startups arise from student and faculty research.

Student life

Housing: On-campus housing options at multiple campuses; housing near Tempe campus is particularly vibrant.
Clubs & activities: Hundreds of student organizations, volunteering, cultural groups, and professional student associations.
Athletics: Part of NCAA Division I; ASU Sun Devils compete in multiple sports.
Campus culture: Diverse student body with a focus on innovation, community engagement, and real-world impact.

Notable alumni and facts

Alumni span business, government, science, entertainment, and sports.
Notable sectors include technology executives, researchers, and public service leaders.
ASU has a strong emphasis on access and inclusion, scalability in higher education, and public partnerships.

History and timeline (high-level)

1885: Founded as the Territorial Normal School for the Territory of Arizona.
1958: Becomes Arizona State University.
Late 20th–early 21st century: Rapid expansion across multiple campuses; major focus on online education and research infrastructure.
Ongoing: Continues to broaden programs, partnerships, and innovation initiatives.

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