Northern Arizona University Admission

Latest Update: Most of the dates and deadlines provided focus on the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters. According to NAU’s international student checklist, the first day of classes for Fall 2025 is Monday, August 25, 2025. For Spring 2026, session calendars confirm the start date as Monday, January 12, 2026

Northern Arizona University offers three main intakes, Fall, Spring, and Summer, with most programs following rolling admissions. While flexibility exists, priority deadlines, such as March 1, 2025 (Closed) for Fall freshmen or program-specific graduate cutoffs, are key for scholarships, housing, and timely processing.

Serving over 28,000 students, including a growing international population from 80+ countries, Northern Arizona University offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate programs. Located in Flagstaff, it combines academic resources with a welcoming and safe setting. Nearly 97% of students receive financial aid, making it one of the best public universities in the USA.

Here’s a quick summary of key facts international students should know before planning to study in the USA and apply for Northern Arizona University admission:

Feature	Details
Established	1899
Campuses	Main campus in Flagstaff, NAU-Yuma, and over 20 statewide branch locations
Total Enrollment	28,194
Acceptance Rate	91%
Graduation Rate	59%
Degrees Offered	PhD in Bioengineering Master's in Engineering Physics Master’s in Athletic Training Bachelors in Engineering

With that foundation, let’s break down when you can actually start your academic journey at NAU.

Northern Arizona University Admission Dates

With a student body of over 28,000 and a reputation for accessibility, Northern Arizona University offers multiple entry points throughout the academic year. There are three main intakes at NAU, including Summer (May), Spring (January), and Fall (August).

In addition, a rolling admissions policy provides applicants with flexibility; however, priority deadlines exist for those seeking Northern Arizona University scholarships, housing, or competitive programs. 

Below, you’ll find intake-specific details to help you plan your application.

Summer (May)

The Summer term at NAU is ideal for students looking to fast-track their studies or get an early start before the busy Fall semester. While new freshmen are less common in this intake, transfer and graduate students often use the summer to begin prerequisite coursework or accelerate degree progress.

Below are the application timelines for the Summer intake 2025:

Type of Applicants	Criteria	Deadline/Date
Undergraduate Freshmen	Rolling Admission	Up to term start
Undergraduate Transfers	Rolling Admission	Up to term start
Graduate Applicants	Varies by program	Rolling/Program-specific

Note: 

• NAU’s rolling admissions policy means you are not restricted to a single application deadline for most programs.
• "Up to term start" means you can apply until the summer term begins, but spots may fill quickly. Applying early helps ensure your place and the timely processing of documents.

If you prefer a mid-academic-year start or missed earlier deadlines, Spring opens up timely opportunities for fresh applicants.

Spring (January)

Spring at NAU offers a mid-year entry point, ideal for transfers and international students. For Spring 2026, freshmen should apply by September 15, 2025, for priority. Graduate and transfer applicants follow rolling admission until seats fill. Early application helps with housing and student visa timelines.

Here are the key application dates for Spring 2026:

Type of Applicants	Criteria	Deadline/Date
Undergraduate Freshmen	Priority Deadline	September 15, 2025
Undergraduate Transfers	Rolling Admission	Up to term start
Graduate Applicants	Varies by program	Rolling/Program-specific

Note: Spring applications are accepted until seats are filled. Some programs may have earlier deadlines, especially for competitive or international tracks. Check your program’s page for details.

Fall, however, remains NAU’s central intake, offering the widest range of courses, funding options, and housing availability.

Fall (August)

Fall is NAU’s central intake, with the most courses, housing, and scholarships. For Fall 2025, freshmen should apply by March 1, 2025 (Closed) and submit final documents by July 1, 2025  (Closed). Transfers and graduate applicants follow a rolling admission process, but early submission offers better access to resources.

Review the critical Fall 2025 deadlines below:

Type of Applicants	Criteria	Deadline/Date
Undergraduate Freshmen	Priority Deadline	March 1, 2025 (Closed)
	Final Document Submission	July 1, 2025 (Closed)
Undergraduate Transfers	Rolling Admission	Up to term start
Graduate Applicants	Varies by program	Rolling/Program-specific

Note: Applications are reviewed year-round on a space-available basis. Some programs may set priority deadlines for housing or scholarships, but general admission has no fixed final cutoff.

Now that you know when college applications are due, here’s how the actual Northern Arizona University admission process works step by step.

Northern Arizona University Admission Process

Northern Arizona University acceptance rate of 91% reflects its inclusive admissions approach. Known for its high-altitude research environment, strong undergraduate teaching, and year-round entry points, NAU enrolls over 5,000 graduate students, 4% of whom are international.

Whether you're applying as a freshman, transfer, or graduate student, the application process is designed to make your transition straightforward:

• Step 1: Submit Online Application:
  • Undergraduate & Transfer: Apply anytime via NAU’s portal or Common App.
  • Graduate: Apply through the Graduate College portal; check program-specific deadlines.
• Step 2: Upload Required Documents:
  • Freshmen: High school transcripts (test-optional; core GPA ~2.75 recommended).
  • Transfers: Transcripts from every college attended (GPA thresholds around 2.0-2.5).
  • Graduate: Bachelor's transcripts (minimum ~3.0 GPA), plus resume, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters where required.
  • International Students: Passport copy, financial proof, Statement of Financial Support, and English proficiency.
• Step 3: Review Process: Applications are reviewed upon receipt; there is no single deadline for general admission. Admissions decisions are based on GPA, coursework, and alignment with program expectations.
• Step 4: Admission Decision & Next Steps:
  • Undergraduate & Transfer: After admission, submit an enrollment deposit (e.g., $325 or INR 28K for freshmen), finalize housing, and upload final transcripts.
  • Graduate: Wait for official acceptance from the Graduate College; some programs may offer conditional admission.
  • International: Receive Form I‑20 for F‑1 visa processing and complete SEVIS fee payment, DS‑160 form, embassy appointment, and passport checks. Transfers on an F-1 visa must also submit a SEVIS Transfer-In form.

Not sure about your eligibility or which course suits you best at Northern Arizona University? Connect with upGrad experts for a free one-on-one session and personalized application support.

Having outlined the general Northern Arizona University admission process, it’s important to highlight the specific pathways and requirements for Northern Arizona University courses.

Northern Arizona University MBA Admissions

NAU’s MBA program, offered through the Franke College of Business, is designed to accommodate both working professionals and recent graduates. The admission cycle accepts students for multiple terms with competitive consideration based on both academic performance and career alignment.

The international final application deadline for MBA admissions is April 1, 2025 (Closed). International applicants must follow the guidelines for documents required to study abroad and allow time for visa processing. 

Here’s a quick overview of what you need to get started:

MBA Admission Requirement

Applicants to the MBA program in the USA must show academic consistency with a 3.0 GPA or higher. While prior work experience isn't mandatory, it’s a useful addition. Documents such as a resume and proof of English proficiency are required for all, and international students must upload a valid passport for identity verification.

Below are the key criteria and documents required for NAU’s MBA admission:

Requirement Criteria	Details
Academic Requirements	Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution; minimum 3.0 GPA (4.0 scale) required for regular admission
Work Experience	Not strictly required, but professional experience is considered and can strengthen your application
Resume	Required
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL: 80-83 IELTS: 6.5+ Duolingo: 105+
Identification Document	Copy of passport required for international applicants

Once familiar with the entry criteria, prospective MBA students should also explore the financial support options that can make this advanced degree more accessible.

MBA Scholarships

Financing your MBA at NAU can be eased through assistantships and tuition reduction programs. International students who secure Graduate Assistantships can receive up to $23,984 (INR 20L) in support.

Those from WICHE member states may qualify for the WRGP tuition structure, reducing costs significantly. These awards are competitive and require full-time enrollment. Let’s explore these MBA scholarships in the USA below:

Scholarship	Details
Graduate Assistantships	Eligibility: Requires a student to be enrolled in a graduate program Benefits: Up to $23,984 (INR 20L) for international students
Western Regional Graduate Program	Eligibility: Students must be residents of a WICHE member state and apply to a WRGP participating program Benefits: 150% of resident tuition
NAU Veteran and Military Leadership Program	Eligibility: Veteran or active duty service member of the US Armed Forces who has completed the NAU MBA program application process Benefits: 100% of tuition and fees up to $250 (INR 21.5K) /credit hour

Beyond business, NAU’s graduate offerings encompass a wide range of science and technical disciplines, each with its own specific admission requirements.

Northern Arizona University MS Admissions

Northern Arizona University offers MS programs across STEM, public health, and environmental disciplines, many of which are research-driven and thesis-based. These programs are suited for applicants with a focused academic or career goal.

While most follow rolling admissions, some programs, like the MS in Forestry, have firm priority deadlines (e.g., February 15, 2025, for Fall; October 15, 2025, for Spring). 

Here’s what you need to prepare before submitting your Northern Arizona University admission application:

MS Admission Requirement

MS applicants must submit transcripts showing a minimum GPA of 3.0. A resume and detailed statement of purpose are mandatory for most programs, such as a Master's in Criminology and Athletic Training.

Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources help strengthen the profile. Additional materials like GRE scores may be required depending on the program. The required documents and academic standards include:

Requirement Criteria	Details
Academic Qualification	Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution; minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Resume	Required for MS programs; should detail academic, research, and professional experience
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: 80+ IELTS: 6.5+ Duolingo: 105+
Statement of Purpose (SOP)	Should outline academic interests, professional goals, and reasons for pursuing the MS program
Letter of Recommendation (LOR)	Typically, two required, from academic or professional references familiar with the applicant’s qualifications
Academic Transcripts	Required from all post-secondary institutions attended; must be official and sent directly to NAU
Additional Documents	May include GRE scores, proof of financial support, and portfolio or scholarly papers

Understanding the academic prerequisites is just one part of the equation; prospective MS students should also consider the scholarship opportunities available to support their studies.

MS Scholarships

Graduate scholarships at NAU are selective and often contingent upon GPA and academic background. New or continuing MS students with a GPA of 3.75+ may apply for the Graduate Studies Scholarship. Native American students meeting eligibility may receive up to $4,000 (INR 3.4L) under the Quayle Scholarship.

Below are key scholarships for MS in USA you can apply for:

Scholarship	Details
Office of Graduate & Professional Studies Scholarship	Eligibility: New or continuing graduate students with a minimum 3.75 GPA Benefits: $1,000 (INR 86K)
Louis H. and Betty J. Quayle Scholarship	Eligibility: New or continuing graduate students who are members of a federally recognized Native American tribe or nation Benefits: Up to $4,000 (INR 3.4L)
The ARCS Foundation Scholarship	Eligibility: Enrolled in a full-time degree-granting program with a GPA of 3.5 or higher Benefits: $5,000 (INR 4.3L) per year

For those exploring additional postgraduate pathways, NAU offers a diverse array of programs beyond the traditional MBA and MS tracks.

Northern Arizona University: Other PG Courses Admission

NAU’s graduate offerings go beyond MBA and MS, covering areas such as education, criminal justice, and social work. These programs often have flexible application cycles, although some, such as Biomedical Engineering and MA in Clinical Psychology, follow priority windows for competitive tracks.

Applicants are expected to match their interests clearly with program outcomes. If you’re planning to apply, these are the Northern Arizona University admission essentials to know.

Other PG Course Admission Requirements

A bachelor's degree with a GPA of at least 3.0 is a typical requirement for postgraduate degrees. Supporting documents include a resume, a motivation letter, and proof of English proficiency. For international students, a passport copy and a $75 (INR 6.4K) application fee are standard.

Here’s a checklist of general graduate admission requirements beyond MBA/MS:

Requirement Criteria	Details
Resume	Required. Should outline academic background, work experience, and relevant achievements
English Language Proficiency	Minimum scores: TOEFL iBT: 80+ IELTS: 6.5+ Duolingo: 105+
Academic Requirement	Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution; minimum GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) for regular admission
Letter of motivation	Required: should address motivation, goals, and fit with NAU’s program
Identification Document	Copy of passport required for international applicants
Application Form & Fee	Online graduate application required; application fee is $75 (INR 6.4K) for international students

NAU’s commitment to academic access begins at the undergraduate level. Here’s how its bachelor’s programs are structured for incoming students.

Northern Arizona University Bachelor's Admission

NAU offers a simplified, test-optional admission process for both freshmen and transfer applicants. International students can apply for the Fall, Spring, or Summer terms, with priority deadlines set for March 1, 2025 (Closed) for Fall and September 15, 2025, for Spring.

To confirm enrollment and access housing, students must pay a $325 (INR 28K) fee (for freshmen) by May 1, 2025 (Closed) for Fall entry. The fee is non-refundable after June 1, 2025 (Closed). Applying early helps ensure priority consideration and smoother pre-arrival steps.

However, before discussing the requirements, it’s worth understanding what makes an NAU undergraduate experience unique.

Advantages of getting into Northern Arizona University for a Bachelor's

There are several reasons to study at Northern Arizona University, which offers a practical blend of affordability, academics, and student support. With 97% of undergraduates receiving financial aid, most students benefit from reduced costs.

The Flagstaff campus adds value with its safe, high-altitude setting, which is ideal for outdoor learning and an active lifestyle. NAU also supports early research and career planning, which is key for students planning graduate study, as earning potential can rise by 18% or more. Key highlights include:

• Student Body & Support: Over 23,000 undergraduate students with a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for closer faculty interaction.
• Diverse Programs: Offers 150+ undergraduate majors, with strengths in environmental science, medical sciences, and forestry.
• Career Outcomes: Around 85% of students are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of earning their degree.
• Campus Life: Nearly 400 clubs and organizations, along with outdoor access to national parks, hiking trails, and seasonal snow sports.
• Hands-On Learning: Undergraduate research, internships, and fieldwork are widely integrated into coursework.

Having explored the benefits, prospective students can now focus on the concrete requirements needed to join NAU’s undergraduate ranks.

Bachelor's Admission Requirements at Northern Arizona University

Freshman applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.5, while transfer students must hold at least a 2.0 GPA along with a U.S. associate degree. Letters of recommendation are not required. English proficiency can be demonstrated through various options, including TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, SAT (ERW section), or ACT English scores.

Here are the key academic and document requirements:

Requirement Criteria	Details
Academic Qualification	Official transcripts; minimum GPA: 2.5 (first-year), 2.0 (with US associate degree)
Standardized Tests	Not required for general admission; SAT/ACT can meet English proficiency
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: 70 IELTS: 6 Duolingo: 95 ACT: 21 SAT ERW: 350 Pearson Test of English: 56 IB English A: 5 (HL), 6 (SL) IB English B: 7 (HL/SL)
Transfer Applicants	Submit college/university transcripts; NACES evaluation for some countries (e.g., Nigeria)
Recommendation Letter	Not required for admission
Identification Document	Copy of passport

Note: If requirements are not met, students may need to take an English placement test and/or enroll in the Program in Intensive English.

Meeting the admission criteria is just the first step; next, students should investigate the scholarship opportunities that can make their education more affordable.

Bachelor's Scholarships at Northern Arizona University

NAU provides fully funded scholarships in USA for undergraduate students, particularly first-year applicants. One notable example of bachelor's scholarships for USA at Northern Arizona University includes the President’s Excellence Award ($11,000 or INR 9.5L award amount), which supports high-GPA students.

Here are some awards currently available to undergrad students:

Scholarship	Details
A. Elaine Bychinsky Award for Writers of Promise	Eligibility: Must be 18 or older, of South-Asian origin and reside in the UK, Bangladesh, India or Pakistan Benefits: Up to $10,000 (INR 8.6L)
President’s Excellence	Eligibility: Student enrolled in a first bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 Benefits: $11,000 (INR 9.5L)
Arizona Academic Decathlon	Eligibility: Participation in the Arizona Academic Decathlon, either regional or state Benefits: $2,000 (INR 1.7L)

Securing admission and financial aid is only part of the journey. NAU’s comprehensive support services ensure students flourish throughout their academic careers.