What is the First Year Student Fee (FYF)

The Arizona Board of Regents approved the First Year Student Fee (FYF) in 2010 as a one-time $20 fee for all incoming main campus first-year students. The fee supports programs and services that enhance first-year student success and the overall first-year experience.

In 2025, to simplify billing and streamline administration, the FYF was combined with another one-time fee to create the Incoming Student Fee. The FYF component remains $20, is still charged to all incoming main campus first-year students and continues to be managed and used as originally intended.

Why does the fee matter?

The First Year Student Fee is designed to fund programs and projects targeting first year student interests and aligning with the Office of the Provost's goal of creating an exceptional student experience at UA.  Previously funded projects include Bear Down Camp, Family Weekend, SafeCats and Finding Community Welcome.  Funded programs and projects target aspects of the first year student experience and are designed to have a positive impact on students. 

Who gets involved?

UA students help determine where funds are directed, via comprehensive surveys issued bi-annually. and the First Year Student Fee Advisory Board (FYFAB) recommends funding priorities. University oversight of the Board is provided through the Office of the Provost, and funds are distributed following established University business procedures and policies.  Any university department or organization may apply for First Year Fee funding provided that the program is open to first year students of the university regardless of academic discipline and fulfills the mission of the fee.

Can I apply for funding?

Applications for project proposals are typically submitted beginning in February and review of proposals begins in March. Information about how to apply for funding and the specific dates that the application opens and closes may be found on the News Page.