Parents and family
Helping your student choose the right college is a big moment, and you don’t have to do it alone. At NAU, we team up with families to provide guidance, support, and peace of mind, every step of the way.
55% of NAU students graduate debt free
$400+ million in scholarships and financial aid is awarded to NAU students annually
Why families choose Northern Arizona University
Choosing a college is a big step, for your student and for you. At NAU, we take that responsibility seriously. We provide a caring, high-quality experience where your student will be seen, supported, and set up for success, in school and in life.
When your student joins the Lumberjack family, they don’t just earn a degree, they discover who they are, build meaningful connections, and gain the skills to build a bright future.
Personal support that makes a big difference
At NAU, your student gets the best of both worlds: big opportunities and personal attention. Our professors and staff genuinely care and work with students to make sure they’re supported academically, emotionally, and professionally.
- small class sizes where students are more than just a number
- academic advising, tutoring, and career services
- first-year programs that support a smooth transition into college life
Quality education. Real value.
We know cost matters. That’s why NAU offers financial aid guides, transparent pricing, and generous scholarships that help more families make college work. We are proud to be among the most affordable four-year universities in the region.
Western Undergraduate Exchange
Students from participating Western states may qualify for major tuition savings through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program, making NAU even more affordable for out-of-state families.
WUE lets your student attend NAU at a discounted rate, up to 40% off standard out-of-state tuition! That means big savings without sacrificing quality.
A home away from home
We know you want your student to feel safe, welcomed, and happy. At NAU, they’ll find a warm, inclusive community with endless ways to get involved and make lasting friendships:
- on-campus first-year housing designed to build community
- 400+ student clubs, leadership programs, and campus events
- easy ways to get connected and find their people
Stay connected with the Lumberjack Family Hub
Our Lumberjack Family Hub is your go-to resource for tips, updates, and ways to support your student, before college and while they’re here. It’s free, helpful, and designed with you in mind.
Events for families
Family Weekend
Come see what life at NAU is all about! Family Weekend is a chance to visit campus, enjoy fun events, meet other families, and get a taste of the Lumberjack experience.
Parent and family programs
Family Engagement
Our Family Engagement team helps parents and family members of future college students understand the college journey, offering tools and guidance so you can support your student with confidence. Whether we meet at one of our Team College Bound programs, a campus or tour, or at New Student Onboarding, we're here to ensure you have the resources and connections to support your student's journey! Family Engagement empowers families with information and resources so you can encourage, guide, and cheer on your student every step of the way.
Team College Bound
Team College Bound offers fun, helpful sessions that walk parents through the entire college process, from understanding its value to navigating applications, financial aid, and more.
Topics include:
- why college matters (the value of a college education)
- supporting your student’s success
- how to apply (and what to expect)
- paying for college
- ensuring a smooth transition into the college experience
This free program is for families of Arizona high schoolers (grades 9–12) who are exploring the idea of college. Available in-person in English, Spanish, and a culturally relevant format for Indigenous families, Team College Bound meets you where you are. Sessions are just two hours a week, for five weeks.
Please note that this program is for the parent or guardian to attend. Lessons 1 through 3 will be attended by the parent/guardian without your student, while lessons 4 and 5 should be attended by you and your student(s).
2026-2027 program dates
Each lesson is approximately 2 hours long and held weekly at the same time and location.
| Curriculum type | Start date | End date | Registration deadline | Registration forms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English | September 1, 2027 | September 30, 2027 | August 26, 2027 | Coming soon |
| Spanish | March 2027 | April 2027 | March 2027 | Coming soon |
| Indigenous | March 2027 | April 2027 | March 2027 | Coming soon |