2024 Best Colleges for Low-Income Students in the Phoenix Area

• Tempe, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  11,677 reviews

Freshman: Welcome to the sun-soaked wonderland of Arizona State University (ASU), where your academic adventure unfolds amidst a backdrop of innovation, collaboration, and endless opportunities! ASU's Tempe campus is not just a place to study; it's a haven of discovery. Picture yourself strolling through a futuristic landscape of sleek, sustainable buildings and lush greenery, all under the warm Arizona sun. The campus isn't just bricks and mortar; it's an ecosystem designed to nurture your dreams. As a computer science student, you'll be greeted by labs that practically hum with innovation. The state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge software are your playgrounds for exploration. The libraries are your treasure troves, offering boundless knowledge at your fingertips. And the Wi-Fi? It's like a secret power source, connecting you to the digital universe everywhere you go. ASU isn't just a university; it's a gateway to a world of possibilities.... Read 11,677 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $14,653

• SAT range 1100-1320

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  546 reviews

Freshman: I have heard many positive things about GateWay Community College - Phoenix. Students often praise the school for its affordability, accessibility, and supportive faculty and staff. The school also offers a wide range of programs and services, making it a good option for students with a variety of interests and goals. Overall, GateWay Community College - Phoenix seems to be a well-regarded institution that offers a variety of benefits to its students. If you are considering attending GateWay, I would encourage you to do your own research and talk to current and former students to get their perspectives on the school.... Read 546 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,761

• SAT range —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,184 reviews

Sophomore: After two semesters at PC I can say that I am EXTREMELY happy about choosing this community college as my reentrance into college life as an "adult learner". After a hiatus from school due to health and financial reasons, it took the pandemic to put things into perspective and remind me of what I truly value and enjoy in life: my education. Since enrolling at PC I've found real personal and professional success and have been pleasantly surprised at how many resources the college makes available to it's student body, the extracurriculars and community involvement opportunities (I, myself, have participated in PC's business club, Model UN, the region's #1 PTK honors society, DEI facilitator training, flexible work opportunities, and choir!) and an incredibly knowledgeable staff that is earnestly interested in preparing us for success in the next steps in our careers- whether that be getting certifications, associate degree, or transferring to a fantastic university. Highly recommend!... Read 1,184 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,461

• SAT range —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  619 reviews

Sophomore: PVCC is a great school to start your college journey. The classes are affordable, the campus is easy to navigate, and the professors are usually pretty great. When deciding on a degree path, the advisors are excellent at helping you get on track. My last two semesters there were a bit confusing and I was having difficulty figuring out what classes I needed to sign up for so that I could properly transfer my credits to the graduate school I chose. My academic advisor was thorough and replied to my messages quickly. He made sure I was on the right track and everything has gone through correctly. The counseling office was also helpful. Classes and home life tend to be stressful for me, but having access to professionals in counseling that I could meet with for free was a blessing to me. I felt assured by them and my professors were accommodating when I talked to them about it. Of course, there's always at least one or two professors that will be difficult, but most were great to have!... Read 619 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,198

• SAT range —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  625 reviews

Freshman: Overall I think my student child would have preferred to be in Tempe, although housing seems better. Access to classes in proximity to dorms is great. Parking is limited & pricyley. Cafeteria comfort level ok. The AC wasn't working the last few weeks and requesting carryout costs 6.00! Finally, talk of a plethora of scholarship money out there easily accessible to the ASU website is true. Yet, when applying not a single confirmed positive hit has been reveived. (Still applying and for my student as well. ) Seems that a lot scholarships have strict qualifications, and for Pell grant recipients. However, if Pell grant earners have free money, why would they be prioritized to receive even more free money for college. The system seems unfair. College costs and fafsa awards are not geared for hard working middle /working class families. Rather they're punished by having to take out large loans and not prioritized equally for scholarships.... Read 625 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $13,764

• SAT range 1080-1270

• Chandler, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  1,140 reviews

Alum: My experience at Chandler-Gilbert Community College was an amazing one. I don’t even know where to begin! I took so many different courses and learned exactly what I needed to and more. My journey of earning my Associates degree in Arts and my Associates in Science degree was filled with so much joy and I met so many incredible people along the way. There was never a boring day on the campus. The instructors are amazing, there are so many nice and kind students, and I’m so grateful for all of the friendships that I have made. There are several programs and clubs that just get you involved and filled with Coyote spirit. Even the Zoom class meetings that I experienced were helpful. If there was anything that I had to say about the improvement of the college, it would just simply be to continue spreading wisdom, kindness and excellence to whoever attends. I’m so glad that I attended this college and I’m even more thankful for all it helped me achieve!... Read 1,140 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,311

• SAT range —

• Mesa, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,995 reviews

Sophomore: It was very good. I took live online classes because it was in COVID times, but it was still good given the circumstances and the affordability of it. I was happy with it, and basically the only things I would improve would be to make sure the students are understanding and don't have questions before moving on and on from lesson to lesson. I experienced this in my math class. I had straight A's in all of my classes--except for math class. This happened both semesters of the year I did college online in COVID times. The professors at this school were all quite good, I was happy with them. Most of them were very competent and good at explaining and teaching, and even the few that weren't seemed to care a lot about the well-being of the students, and be sympathetic to our situation with all the COVID online weirdness going on. If they hadn't handled that situation so gracefully, I doubt I'd even want to return to MCC. As it is, I am excited to go back this semester!... Read 1,995 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,733

• SAT range —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  646 reviews

Junior: As a junior in college, my educational journey began with dual enrollment classes at South Mountain Community College (SMCC). One of the standout features that initially drew me to SMCC was its commitment to providing online classes, SMCC made sure to cater to students like me who value the flexibility and convenience of remote learning. What truly sets SMCC apart, though, is the staff's exceptional preparedness for teaching online. In a world that has rapidly shifted towards digital education, SMCC's faculty seems to have seamlessly transitioned to this mode of instruction. Their dedication to delivering high-quality online education is evident in the way they engage with students, provide clear instructions, and create a supportive virtual learning environment. SMCC should expand scholarship opportunities to benefit online students, promoting equitable access to education.... Read 646 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,960

• SAT range —

• Glendale, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  353 reviews

Freshman: Arizona State University (ASU) stands out as a premier educational institution for its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and academic excellence. Boasting a diverse and dynamic student body, ASU fosters an environment that encourages collaboration and embraces global perspectives. The university's forward-thinking approach is evident in its cutting-edge research initiatives and emphasis on real-world applications. With a range of top-ranked programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant campus life, ASU provides students with a holistic and transformative educational experience. The dedication to shaping future leaders and fostering a culture of discovery solidifies ASU's position as a leading institution in higher education.... Read 353 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $9,349

• SAT range 1040-1270

• Glendale, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,651 reviews

Freshman: My experience at GCC has been nothing but excellent! Ever since enrolling in Fall of 2022, I have been so happy to be in as positive of an environment as this one. I make the drive to main campus, even though it’s a little further out of my way, because I love the energy on the campus, not to mention how well kept and aesthetically pleasing it is! The professors are so professional and personable. I appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that they put in to make this college experience the best it can be. My academic advisor always has an answer to any question I have and I couldn’t feel more supported!... Read 1,651 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,810

• SAT range —

• Mesa, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  245 reviews

Junior: I love ASU! The polytechnic campus is smaller so its easier and faster to get from one classroom to the next. I absolutely loved my professors! They all feel like they actually care about our education and our concerns. I'm learning the material and when I have questions, I'm not afraid to ask the professor. I love all the events that happen on campus, especially the free food! My favorite place is the library! I can go there when I need some peace and quiet and the librarians always have book suggestions that actually help me. I can put my headphones on and relax on the couches and study for my classes. The community at the polytechnic campus is strong. I always feel so welcomed. Make sure to join a club, the clubs are always so worth it. I wish there were more choices for food on campus. Other than that, I've enjoyed my time at ASU and I'm ready for the next semester!... Read 245 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $11,447

• SAT range 1120-1300

• Avondale, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  970 reviews

Freshman: I absolutely love my time at Estrella Mountain Community College! The vibrant and supportive community here has made my learning experience truly exceptional. The dedicated faculty and staff create an engaging and enriching environment, while the range of courses and resources available have helped me thrive in my academic pursuits. The campus itself is beautiful, fostering a sense of belonging and inspiration. Overall, my time at Estrella Mountain Community College has been incredibly enjoyable, and I'm grateful for the opportunities it has provided me to learn and grow.... Read 970 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,724

• SAT range —

• Tempe, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  504 reviews

Freshman: Rio Salado College is amazing! It is a great way to get college credit through high school. The instructors are invested in helping you succeed, and there to help you every step of the way. The Rio Salado College website is easy to use and helps you navigate all of your classes. Also, if you have any questions, you can call and talk to the very nice representatives that are trained to take care all of your needs. Rio Salado College is great, I have recommended it to all my friends and family!... Read 504 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,426

• SAT range —