New for Fall 2027 Non-Resident Students Out-of-state tuition, cut nearly in half
Northern Arizona University’s Flagstaff Advantage Rate (FAR) drops non-resident tuition from $30,000 to $16,000 a year. Add an automatic first-year merit tuition scholarship of up to $6,500 per year, and you’re looking at one of the clearest deals for a high-quality degree in out-of-state education.
NAU at a glance
Top 10 best college towns in the nation
R1 research institution
350+ student clubs and orgs
How FAR adds up
50% less than the other in-state Arizona universities
40-60% lower than many other comparable out-of-state universities (including UC schools)
An automatic guaranteed tuition scholarship
When you apply to NAU, you’re guaranteed a first-year merit tuition scholarship – no extra steps needed.
| Scholarship | GPA (core) | 2027-28 award | 4-year savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summit | 3.75–4.00 | $6,500 | $26,000 |
| Peak | 3.50–3.74 | $6,000 | $24,000 |
| Ascent | 3.00–3.49 | $5,000 | $20,000 |
| Trailhead | Admitted–2.99 | $2,500 | $10,000 |
Tuition is set annually by the Arizona Board of Regents. Housing, meals, books, and personal expenses are not included.
Simple, transparent tuition pricing, with a view
Why pay $35,000–$60,000 a year, with complex tuition pricing and fees when you can earn a valuable degree from an R1 university, study with world-class faculty who know your name, meet life-long friends, all while living in one of the country's best college towns, for $16,000 a year in tuition?
Not just a lower price, a clear value
Here's the whole story, not just the sticker price.
College pricing got confusing, and NAU is working to make costs easier to understand. By simplifying tuition, we’re helping students and families better anticipate what they’ll pay and feel confident choosing NAU.
The numbers: $16,000.
That’s the cost of education – set upfront, before any scholarship is applied. Every eligible student is automatically considered for an additional guaranteed first-year merit tuition scholarship ($2,500—$6,500) from the moment they apply. No essay and no second portal.
A condition of the four-year merit tuition scholarship is an NAU Campus Living experience for the student’s first year. This includes NAU-managed housing and a meal plan. Students who live on campus consistently see higher GPAs, stronger retention, and an easier transition.
From students and families like yours
"Throughout my education at NAU I was provided with countless hands-on opportunities that helped me transition into the workforce seamlessly and with confidence."
"Visiting campus, understanding scholarships and working with the NAU staff who answered our questions on cost helped us make NAU a reality for our son."
"Our updated out-of-state tuition model makes NAU more affordable and accessible, ensuring geographic boundaries never stand between you and your future."
Frequently asked questions
Learn more about the benefits of FAR!
What is the FAR Tuition?
The Flagstaff Advantage Rate tuition is now $16,000. This means a 47% reduction in tuition for eligible FAR students outside of Arizona, creating a more accessible pathway to NAU.
Will current students also be charged the lower tuition amount?
Yes. Beginning in Fall 2027, all current non‑resident undergraduate students will be charged the new $16,000 tuition rate. If you receive a tuition‑based scholarship, the scholarship amount will be adjusted accordingly so that your net tuition cost (the amount you pay after scholarships) remains the same as in the 2025–26 academic year.
I am a current student; will I still receive my scholarship?
Yes. Scholarships will continue to be awarded each academic year, based on eligibility requirements. Tuition scholarships will be adjusted or removed, but NAU will ensure your tuition benefit remains the same.
How do I find out exactly how this will affect me?
Your total cost depends on your residency, GPA, and financial aid. Review your financial aid offer, use NAU’s Net Price Calculator, or connect with our team for a personalized estimate.
What's not changing (and still true for NAU)
Academic quality
Student experience
FAFSA-based aid eligibility
Student employment opportunities
College & program accreditation
