Starting July 1, 2026 all CAPS counseling services will be available at no cost to main campus students. Assistance funding is available to help offset the cost to access services before the July 1st launch date. Note: Psychiatry, the ADHD Clinic, and IOP will continue to have a cost after July 1st. There are no changes on fees or eligibility for Arizona Online students.
The CAPS website will be updated during the summer to reflect these changes.
University Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
University of Arizona Announces No-Cost Counseling Services for Students Beginning July 1, 2026
Expanded access to mental health care reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to student wellbeing.
Beginning July 1, 2026, counseling services provided by Campus Health’s Counseling & Psych Services (CAPS) will be available to main campus students at no cost. This important step removes financial barriers and expands access to mental health care, reinforcing the University of Arizona’s longstanding commitment to supporting the whole student.
The university recognizes that mental health is foundational to academic success, persistence, and overall wellbeing. This initiative has been in development for several years and reflects thoughtful planning, collaboration, and strategic investment. With strong support from both university and student leadership, the university has allocated resources to ensure sustainable, no-cost counseling services moving forward.
“This is an exciting and meaningful milestone for our campus,” said Aaron Barnes, CAPS director. “We know that when cost is no longer a barrier, students are more likely to reach out early and engage in care when they need it most. This change strengthens our ability to support students in thriving both academically and personally.”
The transition to a no-cost model aligns with national best practices in higher education. Research consistently shows that reducing financial barriers increases help-seeking behavior and supports stronger student outcomes. By expanding access, the university is making it easier for students to prioritize their wellbeing without added financial stress.
“This decision reflects our deep and ongoing commitment to student success,” said Amanda Kraus, Vice President for Student Affairs. “Caring for the wellbeing of our students is central to our strategic priorities and our guiding vision as a university. Investing in accessible mental health services is an investment in the future of our students and our community.”
Student leaders have long advocated for expanded access to mental health services, emphasizing the importance of equitable support for all students.
“Students have been asking for this because mental health care should be accessible to everyone,” said Adriana Grijalva, Associated Students of the University of Arizona (ASUA) Student Body President. “Seeing this become reality shows that student voices matter.”
Mourad Abdennebi, Graduate and Professional Student Council (GPSC) President, added, “This is a win for students and for the university as a whole. When students feel genuinely supported, the entire campus community becomes stronger, more connected, and better positioned to succeed. Investments in student well-being and belonging create a more vibrant, resilient, and successful university for everyone.”
While counseling services will be provided at no cost beginning July 1, 2026, assistance funding remains available to help offset the cost of services accessed prior to the July 1 start date.
Psychiatry, the ADHD Clinic, and the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) will continue to carry a cost. There will also be no change on current counseling fees or eligibility for Arizona Online students. However, CAPS is committed to ensuring that financial concerns do not prevent students from receiving needed care. Students interested in these services are encouraged to speak with a CAPS provider about available assistance funding or referrals to low-cost options in the community.
By removing financial barriers and strengthening access to care, the University of Arizona continues to build a campus culture where seeking support is normalized, encouraged, and accessible to all students.
Contact:
Aaron Barnes, PsyD
Director at Counseling & Psych Services (CAPS)
Campus Health
520-621-3334
atbarnes@arizona.edu