Parents & Families
INFORMATION
FOR PARENTS
& FAMILIES
Looking Toward a Bright
Future – Together
When your student attends the University of Arizona, you become a part of our extended Wildcat family. Explore how the University of Arizona supports families from application to acceptance – whether they’re a first-generation student, moving to Tucson from out-of-state, or following in your alumni footsteps.
The Application Process
Your student will provide the majority of information needed for their application to the University of Arizona, but they may require a few things from you during the process.
- To apply for most financial aid, your child will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and will need information from your tax returns.
- There are also a variety of financial aid opportunities from the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.
Apart from paperwork, the best way you can be there for your student is with support and encouragement – it’s most important that your child finds the college or university that feels like the right fit!
Resources for Parents
& Families
Parent & Family Programs
The University of Arizona Office of Parent & Family Programs keeps you in the loop throughout your Wildcats’ time on campus. Explore resources such as their Cat Tracks handbook, and connect with fellow Wildcat families on the University of Arizona Parents & Family Association’s social media accounts.
Early Academic Outreach
If you have an elementary or middle-school aged student visit Early Academic Outreach for resources to help you and your student prepare for the college application process.
Information for Families of First-Year Students
Understand every aspect of being a Wildcat – from orientation to graduation. The Office of Parent & Family Programs has created a one-stop resources page with all you need to know as the parent of a first-year student. Visit the New Student & Family Programs page to learn about housing and residential life, meal plans, fraternity and sorority programs, and more.
Safety On-Campus
At the University of Arizona, our students’ well-being is our top priority. Arizona offers a number of campus safety resources that contribute to a safe and secure environment, including its own police department and the UAlert emergency notification system. When your student joins our incoming class, they will discover a learning experience that puts their safety and success first.
FERPA Compliance
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) restricts the amount of student information that advisors can share with outside parties, including parents. Get more information about FERPA compliance and accessing your student’s educational records.
Guest Center
Access can be provided to your student’s financial and academic information via Guest Center. Your student can request access in the Next Steps Center or through their UAccess Student Center. Permission is required and granted by your student through their UAccess Student Center.
Downloadable Brochures
From preparing to pay for college to creating a plan for after graduation, the Family Acceptance Brochure [PDF] helps future Wildcats and their families better understand what’s next – for the four years ahead, and beyond! Also, check out the Student/Family Agreement [PDF], a useful guide for navigating important conversations as your student prepares for college.
Events
Visiting the University of Arizona
What’s it like to be a Wildcat? See for yourself!
Student Life pages showcase where your future Wildcat could live, the campus spirit they’ll embrace, the best things to do on-campus, and more.
Current students share their favorite things about the University of Arizona on in-person and virtual campus tours that highlight historic red brick buildings, university traditions, and more.
Events for Parents and Families
As the parent or family member of an Arizona Wildcat, there are tons of opportunities for you to get involved, make connections, and support your student along their journey.
Orientation
When your student is accepted to the University of Arizona, they’ll attend an Orientation session where they will complete any final steps before the first day of classes.
Family Weekend
Experience Wildcat life with your student! Explore campus and learn what your student loves about the University of Arizona.
Contact
Contact the Office of Admissions to learn more about helping your student transition to the University of Arizona.
University of Arizona Employees
Where you work is where they’ll thrive. Arizona Family Programs is available to guide your potential future Wildcat through the application process, help them explore major and degree options, and help them understand how best to take advantage of the University of Arizona’s qualified tuition reduction program.
“I chose to attend the University of Arizona because there are so many great opportunities in place for me and everyone is so helpful and kind. The campus is beautiful with a ton of school spirit, that is what I envision for my college experience.”
—Alyssa Marquez
“I am staying in Tucson to attend the University of Arizona and I am proud to call myself an Arizona Wildcat. Bear Down!”
—Mari Urquidez
“Going to Arizona will give me the opportunity to earn a world class education within a great community of tradition and spirit all in my backyard!”
–McKenzie Meza
Arizona Family Newsletter
Share all there is to love about being a student at the University of Arizona. If you or a family member would like to receive information on becoming a Wildcat, fill out this form for information on what is happening on campus, upcoming visit programs, application deadlines, and more.
Arizona Family Contacts
We are dedicated to facilitating a successful enrollment experience for you and your family members. We’re ready to assist you with any and all steps in enrollment, and any questions you have along the way.
Get in Touch With Your Student’s Recruiter
Our recruiters serve as admissions counselors who will guide you through the admissions process and answer any questions you might have along the way.
Contact Parent & Family Programs
Interested in getting involved with Parent & Family Programs? You can reach out by emailing UAFamily@email.arizona.edu or calling 520-621-0884.
General Inquiries
Inquiries regarding recruitment, orientation, the Next Steps Center, and admissions services for employees and their children should be directed to:
Rafael A. Meza
Senior Director, Inclusive Excellence / Community Development
Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Admissions
Email: rmeza@arizona.edu
Phone: 520-621-9614
Frequently Asked Questions
We would love to show you campus! Please register for a campus tour. Note, Admissions offers additional visit opportunities such as academic and department information sessions, student panels, and specialized events periodically throughout the year. This availability will be noted on the visit registration calendar linked above.
We also offer a variety of virtual visit options including a virtual campus tour and recordings of prior information sessions and informational videos on our YouTube channel. These virtual resources are a helpful way to supplement in person visit opportunities.
The University of Arizona and the Arizona University System offer options for eligible employees and their families to further their education at reduced tuition rates. You can learn more by visiting Human Resources and Financial Aid.
As the parent or family member of a University of Arizona student, you are a valued member of the Wildcat community. We encourage you to get involved through opportunities available through our Parent & Family Programs.