Getting Started at Thunderbird

You're one step closer to your future!

Two Thunderbird students in the hall by the lockers smiling at the camera

Upon accepting the offer of admission, Thunderbird students are required to submit a non-refundable tuition deposit that secures your seat for your enrolled semester. 

The deposit must be submitted through the online system via a credit card payment and will be credited against the charges for tuition in your ASU student account. 

Join T-bird Connect

Once you've made your deposit, you will receive access to T-bird Connect – Thunderbird’s unique web-based platform that allows you to connect with your cohort, other students, and the rest of the global Thunderbird network.

A Thunderbird students views the T-bird Connect app on their smartphone
An architect's rending of Fusion on Frist

Housing

Fusion on First is a brand new, 16-story, tech-driven apartment community in Downtown Phoenix and sets the stage to cultivate and amplify new research and entrepreneurship as its unique design expands community living space for 532 students. Fusion on First serves as home to all Arizona State University (ASU) third and fourth-year students as well as graduate students in the Thunderbird School of Global Management. Off-campus options are also available and while student renters should do their own, thorough research, Thunderbird does provide a list of off-campus options.

Visas

The F-1 visa is the most common student visa and is issued to full-time students enrolled in an academic or language program at a U.S. institution. Any student who is funded either by personal or outside funds, or a combination of the two, is eligible for F-1 status.

If you are a student applying for an F-1 visa, you must request the SEVIS Form I-20 from the appropriate ASU admission office once admitted to ASU.

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Image of Thunderbird Foundations in the Global Forum

Foundations

Foundations is Thunderbird's new student orientation, which occurs the week before classes begin. You’ll connect with your fellow T-birds, explore opportunities and expectations, and define your educational purpose. Foster a sense of community and collaboration with your network through Foundations.

ThunderPLD

For students in the full-time Master of Global Management (MGM) program, ThunderPLD (PLD is professional learning & development) is a professional development course designed to set you up for success in your chosen career path.

ThunderPLD is the first half of the 1-credit Capstone Professional Development course, TGM 597, and is a required course for ALL students. You must earn a grade of B or higher in this course in order to graduate. Once you deposit, you will be invited to ThunderPLD.

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Image of an ASU Thunderbird student wearing a face mask

Student Health Requirements

All students (domestic and international) born after January 1, 1957 are required to meet the following MMR (the MMR vaccine is a vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella) immunization requirement before class registration:

  • Option 1 - Provide proof of two measles vaccinations (one of which must be dated after 1979), first dose given at age 12 months or later. Second dose given at least 28 days after the first.
  • Option 2 - Provide a copy of lab test results showing positive immunity to Rubeola (Measles) lgG or MMR lgG.
  • Submit the MMR Immunization Form (PDF) along with your proof of vaccination or lab results showing positive immunity to Measles. You will continue to see a MMR Immunization hold under "Priority Tasks" on your My ASU account until your measles information is received and verified. Processing time is within 2 business days.
  • Read additional information about MMR.

The MMR vaccine is available for a fee at any of ASU's Health Services locations.

Meet Your Faculty

In today’s interconnected global marketplace, an international career is more accessible than ever. Thunderbird’s world-renowned faculty has extensive, hands-on experience in global management—and they’re passionate about sharing their personal insights, proven solutions and global networks with you.

Where many management school professors teach theory, Thunderbird’s esteemed faculty teaches real-world scenarios drawn from their own experiences. This unique approach to management education provides you with practical, applicable tools and strategies to take on any global business challenge you encounter.

Thunderbird Senior Associate Dean and Professor Lena Booth teaching in a classroom
Image of Thunderbird students attending an event in the Global Forum

Thunderbird New Student Resource Guide

Make the most of your Thunderbird/ASU experience and meet your academic and personal goals. From providing social opportunities to discover your professional career interests to learning the keys to leading a healthy lifestyle for a lifetime, Thunderbird/ASU is here to help you succeed. Explore all your options through this Thunderbird New Student Resource Guide!