Choosing where to study is a big decision, but Arizona State University makes it easier. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., ASU is known for its top-ranked programs, culture of innovation, and focus on student success. In this guide, we’ll share the top 6 reasons to study at Arizona State University and show you how this university can power your academic and career goals.
Reason #1: Ranked Top 10 Globally for Research Impact
ASU isn’t just a place to study — it’s a place to create.
In 2025, U.S. News & World Report ranked ASU #1 in Most Innovative Schools, ahead of MIT and Stanford. ASU also ranks Top 10 globally for research impact, showing that what happens here changes the world.
And the best part? You don’t have to wait until graduation to get started.
At ASU, research starts early, sometimes in your first semester. Professors invite students to join projects, so you learn by doing, not just by reading.
Here’s what your experience could look like:
- Build Your Ideas: Design and test prototypes at ASU’s Chandler Innovation Center, a 17,000 sq. ft. fabrication shop open at no cost to students, staff, and faculty.
- Tackle Global Challenges: Analyze climate data and develop solutions with the Global Futures Laboratory, ASU’s hub for solving worldwide sustainability issues.
- Create Real Solutions: Work with EPICS (Engineering Projects in Community Service) to design engineering solutions that help charities, schools, and communities.
ASU gives you everything you need to succeed. You’ll find mentoring, funding programs like UREP to support your research, and entrepreneurship hubs like Venture Devils to turn your project into a startup.
By graduation, you will have far more than credits. You’ll have a portfolio of projects and research experience that makes you stand out to employers, graduate schools, and beyond.
Reason #2: Top Academic Reputation
ASU is one of the most respected universities in the U.S., and its reputation is built on choice, support, and results.
ASU Key Rankings & Recognitions:
- #2 in the U.S. for employability among public universities (Global Employability University Ranking and Survey 2025).
- #2 for Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs (U.S. News & World Report).
- #1 in the world for International Trade (QS International Trade Rankings, 2023–2025).
- #1 Journalism School in five categories (Broadcast Education Association, 2024).
- #7 in the U.S. for Undergraduate Teaching (U.S. News & World Report, 2025).
- #3 among U.S. public universities for First-Year Experiences (U.S. News & World Report, 2025).
- #1 in the U.S. chosen by international students among public universities (Institute of International Education, 2021–2024).
You can choose from 800+ undergraduate and graduate programs, more options than most universities offer. But you won’t feel lost. Guided course maps and helpful advisors show you exactly what to take each semester.
If your interests change, ASU makes it easy to switch to a related major without losing credits. You can explore programs in business, engineering, health, design, arts, and more. You can also add certificates, minors, and even a 4+1 fast-track program to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time.
With four campuses — Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, West, and Polytechnic — you can study where it works best for you. Graduate students have flexible evening, hybrid, and online options that fit busy schedules.
Reason #3: Launch Your Career in Phoenix
At ASU, your degree is more than a set of classes, it’s the start of your career. And where better to launch than Phoenix, one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.?
You’ll be surrounded by tech, healthcare, aerospace, and finance companies that are actively hiring. Career fairs, co-ops, and part-time roles are close by, giving you a chance to gain experience while you study. Many ASU students even land full-time jobs before graduation.
ASU’s career coaches, advisors, and alumni mentors are there to guide you every step of the way. They’ll help you explore career paths, build connections, and polish your résumé and interview skills so you feel confident and prepared.
ASU also gives you tools that go beyond the classroom:
- Workshops and training to practice pitching your ideas.
- Funding programs like UREP to support your research projects and materials.
- Venture Devils to turn your ideas into startups and compete for funding.
By graduation, you’ll have a portfolio of projects, real-world experience and a diploma that make you stand out.
Reason #4: Scholarships & Funding
At ASU, your education is an investment and ASU helps you make every dollar count. ASU awards over $115 million in scholarships every year. From the start, you can explore scholarships for international students, apply for departmental awards, and even find on-campus jobs to help cover costs.
Even if you don’t receive a full scholarship, you can still save:
- Advisors guide you through flexible payment plans and budgeting tools.
- You can transfer credits, take online classes, or choose cost-effective housing to lower expenses.
- ASU clearly shows costs for meal plans, books, and transportation so you can plan ahead.
Timing matters. Scholarship deadlines come quickly, and UniApplyNow advisors can help you get ready early, match you with the right awards, and submit strong applications.
For extra support, you can contact a UniApplyNow representative for the latest scholarship updates and tips for international students.
Reason #5: International Student Support
In 2024-25, ASU enrolled more than 17,900 international students from 165 countries, making it one of the most globally diverse campuses in the U.S.
The university offers:
- Immigration workshops and visa sessions to guide you step by step
- Social events where you can meet friends and join fun activities
- Peer mentors who share tips and help you adjust to life at ASU
- Support with housing, banking, and healthcare so you feel comfortable from day one
If you want extra language help, ASU offers ESL support through tutoring and language labs for extra practice, conversation groups to boost your speaking confidence, and workshops designed to improve your academic writing and listening skills.
Finally, ASU supports F-1 students from the start, connecting you with networking events, internships, and career fairs so you can gain valuable experience during your studies and be career-ready after graduation.
Reason #6: Student Life, Housing & Wellness
At Arizona State University, student life is full of opportunities to connect and belong. With dozens of clubs, cultural groups, and weekly events, there’s always something new to try, from sports and music to leadership activities and volunteer projects.
You can join:
- Sports teams and fitness clubs
- Cultural and language groups
- Music, arts, and performance clubs
- Leadership activities and volunteer projects
Housing is designed to make your life easier. You can choose residence halls close to your classes or furnished off-campus apartments. Most options include internet, utilities, and shared spaces, so you can focus on studying and spending time with friends instead of worrying about logistics.
ASU housing options include:
- On-campus residence halls near classes
- Furnished off-campus apartments
- Quiet spaces or active community-style living
- Staff support to help you find the right fit
Wellness is a top priority. Counseling Services support thousands of students each year with same-day appointments, group programs, and even 24/7 crisis support through the EMPACT hotline.
You can access:
- Same-day counseling sessions and group programs
- Fitness centers and group exercise classes
- Health workshops to stay balanced and healthy
Living in Phoenix means enjoying sunshine almost all year long, perfect for weekend hikes, local festivals, and cheering on your favorite sports teams. And when you need a quiet moment, there are calm study zones and libraries across campus where you can recharge.
Together, ASU’s student life, housing, and wellness programs create a full, supportive experience. You’ll grow academically, socially, and personally.
Ready to Apply? Here’s How
Dreaming of joining ASU? You can apply directly through UniApplyNow — and the process is simple!
- Choose your program – Explore ASU’s 800+ majors on UniApplyNow and pick the one that matches your goals.
- Prepare your documents – Gather transcripts, English test scores (or request conditional admission), and your passport page.
- Check deadlines early – UniApplyNow shows you application deadlines so you can apply early and get the best course and housing options.
- Apply online – Submit your documents through UniApplyNow and track your progress step by step.
- Get support – UniApplyNow advisors guide you on scholarships, housing, and course selection.
- Confirm and secure your spot – Pay your deposit, apply for your visa, and get ready for orientation week.
📢 Tip: International students should apply 6–8 months before classes start to allow enough time for visa processing.
✨ Start Now: Book a free advising call with UniApplyNow to review your program options and apply with confidence.
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