New approaches to housing and admissions support student success
The new expectation that most first-time, full-time students live on campus begins in fall 2026.
Chris Richards/University Communications
The university has announced a new expectation that most first-time, full-time students live on campus beginning in fall 2026. The change, along with a shift to a new Early Action admission process, will support the success of first-year students and create a smoother start to the Wildcat journey.
A foundation for first-year success
Living on campus is a strong predictor of student success, said Amanda Kraus, vice president for student affairs.
"Student success is our highest priority, and the data are clear – students who live on campus tend to earn higher grades, stay enrolled at higher rates and graduate sooner," Kraus said.
Amanda Kraus
Since 1988, first-year students living on campus have averaged 81% first-to-second-year retention, compared to 73% for those living off campus, according to University Analytics and Institutional Research data. In addition, students who live on campus for at least one year have a 50% higher four-year graduation rate than those who never live on campus.
"Living on campus also helps students build community, find support more easily and feel connected as they adjust to college life," Kraus added.
On-campus living also gives students extra layers of safety, including CatCard-controlled access to residence halls, University of Arizona Police Department presence, emergency blue light phones throughout campus and late-night transportation services.
While the change is new to the University of Arizona, the expectation that first-year students live on campus is common nationally. The housing expectation applies to most first-time, full-time students, regardless of admission pathway with exceptions for students living within 30 miles of campus or those who are facing specific circumstances or hardships.
Earlier admissions
The university is also moving toward earlier, more coordinated admission decisions through Early Action. The shift aims to attract students most likely to find success at the university while giving students and their families greater clarity as they plan for their first-year college experience.
Kristina Wong Davis
On Jan. 15, the university released admission decisions for nearly 25,000 undergraduate students who applied through Early Action. Kristina Wong Davis, vice president for enrollment management and dean of admissions, said the move marks an important milestone.
"Early Action is a positive shift for us, moving away from rolling admission to a clearer timeline that helps students make informed decisions and supports better planning across campus," she said. "By connecting earlier with students who want to be here, we're better positioned to support their success from the very beginning."
With the release of admission decisions, some departments may receive more calls and messages. Students and families with questions can reach out to their recruiter or contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@arizona.edu. The university will review additional applications throughout the coming months and host admitted students for customized tours beginning in February.
A 'new era of student success'
Guided by the university's strategic imperative of Success for Every Student as well as the Academic Success Goals, Student Affairs, Housing and Residential Life, Enrollment Management and other campus partners are working to create a clearer, more supportive path for students beginning their academic journey at the university.
"This is significant work, and it won't be without challenges, but I believe it will help usher the university into a new era of student success," Kraus said.