On this page: ISS Support • Other Campus Resources • Managing Unexpected Expenses
We know how critical adequate funding is to your success at the University of Arizona. Review the information below to learn more about the services and support available across campus.
ISS Support
If you are experiencing financial hardship, meet with an international student advisor to explore immigration options available:
- Learn about eligibility for different types of employment available to international students, including severe economic hardship authorization for F-1 students.
- Evaluate whether you can shorten your program by graduating early (requires consultation with your academic advisor).
- Consider concurrent enrollment at Pima Community College.
- Discuss options for discontinuing your current program, including change to an online campus, leave of absence and SEVIS transfer to another school.
- Access Special Student Relief (SSR) benefits for reduced course load and employment authorization, available to eligible students from countries specified in the Federal Register.
You can also connect with our Life Management Counselor for mental health counseling related to financial stress.
Other Campus Resources
Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid
Review the terms and conditions of your current award or search for scholarships and private educational loans.
Graduate College Funding Opportunities
Explore funding opportunities administered or funded by the U of A Graduate College.
Thrive Center
Attend a financial presentation or schedule a one-on-one meeting to discuss your financial situation.
Managing Unexpected Expenses
Even with careful budgeting, we understand you may encounter unexpected costs during your studies, like emergency medical bills, car problems, loss of on-campus employment and technology breakdowns. Explore the tabs below for additional campus resources to help you manage these expenses.
Campus Closet is a donation-based program on campus that offers free clothing to University of Arizona students, including casual wear, business attire, and cold-weather gear. It is located in the Student Union.
You must present your CatCard to access Campus Closet, but you do not need to qualify based on income or need.
The Campus Pantry is a student-run supplemental grocery program designed to help fill gaps and prevent food insecurity. The pantry regularly stocks fresh produce, non-perishables, milk, bread, eggs, frozen goods, and hygiene items.
You must present your CatCard to access the Campus Pantry, but you do not need to qualify based on income or need. Visitors may use the pantry on two out of the three days it is open each week.
In addition to its main locations in the Student Union and the Health Sciences Library, the Campus Pantry also offers a pop-up site at the Global Center, located in the ISS lobby.
If you receive a large or unexpected medical bill, or have questions about what your insurance covers, contact the Campus Health Insurance Office. They can help you understand the Student Health Insurance Plan, explain charges, and guide you through next steps for appeals or payment options.
Unexpected housing costs can arise if a roommate moves out, rent increases, or repairs are needed. Review your lease carefully so you understand your financial responsibilities and options.
For help with housing disputes or legal questions, visit:
Subletting can help reduce costs if you need to move before your lease ends. Read What to Know About Sublets to learn about your rights and responsibilities.
The university has a lot of technology resources available for students to use. If you’re dealing with a broken device or other tech issues, check available support options before buying something new. You may be able to access repair services or borrow a replacement.
Parking & Transportation Services offers a variety of free and discounted programs to help students get around safely and affordably:
- Bicycles: Free repairs and rentals
- Carpool Parking Program: Save on parking by carpooling with three or more eligible commuters
- Night Cat by Lyft: Free after-hours rides from campus to Safeway on Broadway, or Walmart at El Con Mall
- Emergency Ride Home Program: Free rides home for students who regularly bike, walk, carpool, or use public transit
- Disability Cart Service: Free door-to-door rides on campus for students with mobility impairments
ISS also offers regular shopping trips to Lee Lee International Supermarket and Trader Joe's. Sign up on our events page.
Additional community resources:
- SunTran and SunLink: Tucson city buses and the streetcar are free for all riders.
- Tugo Bikes: One-way bike sharing with dock-at-any-station convenience; 50% off annual memberships for U of A students
- e-Scooters: One-way electric-powered scooters available for rent (make sure you review the campus policy before riding)
- BICAS: A local nonprofit offering bike repairs, rentals, and refurbished bike sales