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Start Now! College Planning Guide

It's never too early to start planning for college. No matter where you are in your educational journey, now’s the perfect time to get started on the road to college.

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Plan for College

To get to college, students can take three main pathways: assured admission, comprehensive admission or transfer. Each requires careful planning.

Start Planning

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Course Requirements

Students need to complete 16 classes during high school to assure admission to a public university in Arizona. We refer to these courses as the Sweet 16.

See Requirements

Grades & GPA

Students should graduate in the top 25% of their high school class or earn a 3.0 GPA in the Sweet 16 required courses.

Explore Grades & GPA 

Extracurricular Activities

Participation in clubs, sports or other activities can speak to your development as a person and offer opportunities to gain leadership.

Learn More

College Testing

Arizona universities do not require students to take standardized tests, but some colleges and universities do.

Testing Basics 

Aspire to College

College can be a great investment in your future, opening opportunities for higher pay and more fulfilling careers.​​​​

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High School Students

Throughout each year of high school, there are different things you can focus on to help you get ready for college.

Find High School Recommendations

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K-8 Students

During elementary and middle school, students can take steps to increase their chances of ultimately getting into college and exploring areas of personal interest that could result in a future area of study.

Find K-8 Recommendations

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Parents & Families

Parents and families play a crucial role in helping students reach their goal of going to college. Learn how you can help your student along their journey.

Find Family Recommendations

Apply for College

Most applications for colleges and universities require several pieces of supporting documentation to make their admission decision. Find out what you might need and start filling out applications now.

Start Applying

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Applying in Arizona

For Arizona residents, admission to the three schools in Arizona’s public university system is as easy as 1, 2, 3. 

Start Now

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Applying Out of State

If you are looking to attend a college outside Arizona, start researching the admissions process for the school(s) you want to attend.

Explore Your Options

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Career Exploration

Earning a college degree will greatly boost your chances of reaching your dream career. Explore how your interests may lead you to your possible career paths.

Explore Degrees & Careers

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Pay for College

You might be surprised to learn how much help is available to assist students in paying for college expenses.

Succeed in College

All students — even undocumented students and regardless of citizenship status — can plan for and succeed in college. And the University of Arizona has countless resource centers and student services available to help all students achieve their goals.

Learn More

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¿Quieres leer en español?

¡Ahora usted puede! Comienza a planificar para la universidad con nuestros recursos completos en español. Descubre los pasos esenciales para prepararte, desde los requisitos del curso hasta la ayuda financiera y más.

¡Empieza Hoy!