Student Worker Minimum Wage Increasing in 2026

The minimum wage for student workers at the University of Arizona will increase from $14.70 to $15.15 effective Dec. 22, 2025. This increase is in accordance with Arizona's Fair Wages and Healthy Families Act, which mandates annual minimum wage adjustments based on the cost of living. 

We encourage all departments and units to consider how the new minimum wage might impact their budgets. Departments are responsible for funding the minimum wage increases.  

Who is affected?  

All student workers who are paid less than $15.15 per hour.  

When will this change take effect?  

The pay increase will take effect with the pay period that begins on Dec. 22, 2025. Student workers will see the pay increase in their Jan. 9, 2026, paycheck.  

What action is required? 

For current student workers: No action needed. Human Resources will process all necessary pay adjustments. 

For job change approvers managing student job postings: Review and update any active postings that fall below the new minimum wage. Ensure all new hires are offered wages at or above the appropriate rate.