On this page: Education and Childcare • Healthcare • Family-Friendly Spaces on Campus • Things to Do
Bringing your family to Tucson can make your time at the University of Arizona even more meaningful. Review this page for practical information to help you plan for schools, healthcare and adjusting to life as a family in Tucson.
Education and Childcare
Children in the U.S. usually start school at five or six years old, beginning with kindergarten and continuing through 12 years of primary and secondary education (this is commonly known as "K-12"). In Arizona, school attendance is mandatory for children ages 6-16.
F-2 and J-2 dependents may attend public K-12 schools at the appropriate grade level without any special permission or documentation from SEVP. For details about enrollment and required paperwork, contact your local school district.
Arizona’s K–12 education system includes public, charter, and private schools.
- Public schools in most cases must accept students who live within their district boundaries.
- Charter schools are publicly funded but independently operated and may have limited enrollment.
- Private schools set their own admission requirements and are not overseen by the Arizona Department of Education.
Families may choose open enrollment, which allows students to attend a public school outside their assigned district. Contact individual schools for details about enrollment and deadlines.
Resources:
Arizona does not have a law specifying the minimum age when a child can be left home alone. Families are encouraged to use good judgment and consider certified childcare providers when care or supervision is needed. For more information, visit the Arizona Department of Child Safety website.
Campus and Community Resources:
- Childcare Choice: Provides up to $2,000 per fiscal year to help eligible student families cover Arizona-based childcare costs
- Backup Care: Provides eligible students with up to 80 hours of backup care per fiscal year through Bright Horizons
- "A" Camp Youth Programs: Offers active, social, and safe camp experiences for children ages 5-14 throughout the year at Campus Rec
- Arizona Child Care Provider Search: A statewide tool for finding childcare providers
Healthcare
J-2 dependents must carry health insurance at all times. Not maintaining coverage that meets federal requirements is a violation of immigration status and can result in SEVIS record termination.
F-2 dependents are not required to carry health insurance. However, because healthcare in the U.S. can be very expensive, we strongly recommend purchasing private insurance for any F-2 dependents to help manage costs and ensure access to care.
Below are examples of insurance providers that offer plans tailored to international students and their dependents. The university does not endorse or monitor these companies or their plans.
If your F-2 dependents are uninsured, underinsured, or unable to afford care, they may still be eligible for free or reduced-cost services through local community clinics. Many clinics provide care on a sliding fee scale based on income.
These resources can help you locate free or low-cost healthcare services available in the community:
Family-Friendly Spaces on Campus
The University of Arizona’s Life & Work Connections maintains a comprehensive Family Resource Map showing campus with resources like lactation rooms, family restrooms, changing stations and high-chairs. Visit the Family-Friendly Spaces page for more details about available facilities and how to access them.
Things to Do
Most ISS events are family-friendly and designed to help international students and their families feel at home in Tucson. Explore upcoming opportunities on our Events Calendar.
Tucson and the University of Arizona also offer a wide range of opportunities for international families to connect, explore and enjoy life in southern Arizona. From campus events to community programs, there’s something for everyone.
Pima County Public Library
Check out books and attend free community events.
Public Parks
Exercise, play, learn, picnic, and relax at one of Tucson's many public parks.
#ThisIsTucson
Sign up for the newsletter to learn about kids' summer camps and weekly events.
Tucson Village Farm
Connect with a healthy food system and learn to grow and prepare fresh food.
University Calendar
Find family-friendly activities and events throughout the campus.