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How to win Arkansas scholarships
When it comes to winning Arkansas scholarships, start by taking note of the state’s diverse culture and natural beauty. Melodies of the Delta blues to the twangy beat of bluegrass, abound in Arkansas! Arkansas offers an abundance of natural wonders, including breathtaking mountains, clear lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Harness the power of these Arkansas beauties by sharing how they have created a passion for environmental preservation. Paint a picture of how determined you are to make a positive impact on nature by majoring in forestry, geology, or conservation.
Scholarship application resources for Texas scholarships
In order to win Arkansas scholarships you may have to write an essay about yourself. You can check out our Scholarships360 guides on how to write a 250 word essay, how to write a 500 word essay and how to write a scholarship resume to guide you through this process.
Ultimately, the key to winning Arkansas scholarships is to embrace the unique aspects of Arkansas and let it shape your narrative. By merging your personal passions with the diverse nature of Arkansas, you will stand out as an impressive candidate for Arkansas scholarships.
Arkansas college loan debt snapshot
According to the Department of Education, Arkansas residents owe $13.0 billion in federal student loan debt, with student borrowers owing $33,333 on average (those numbers do not include private loans). 51.2% of loan borrowers are under the age of 35. As you are starting your higher education journey, remember that scholarships allow students to take fewer loans. Make sure that you apply to as many as you qualify for. Keep on reading to learn more about top Arkansas scholarships from private organizations, as well as merit scholarships from colleges in Arkansas!
Merit scholarships at Arkansas colleges and universities
Harding University
- Eligibility: First-years admitted to Harding University. Enroll full-time. Have a 3.0+ GPA. Exact amount of award depends on ACT/SAT/CLT score and GPA
- Amount: $6,000 to $11,000
- Deadline: Rolling
Hendrix College
- Eligibility: Based on GPA, standardized test scores (unless test optional), leadership and extracurricular activities, and recommendations
- Amount: $15,000+
- Deadline: Upon application to Hendrix College
Lyon College
- Eligibility: Incoming first-year students to Lyon College with a 20+ ACT and 2.5+ GPA
- Amount: $15,000 – full tuition
- Deadline: Apply early to Lyon College and be admitted and considered
Ouachita Baptist University
- Eligibility: Incoming first-years. Have a 2.0+ GPA
- Amount: $20,000 to $76,000
- Deadline: Considered upon admission to Ouachita Baptist University
University of Arkansas
- Eligibility: First-years at the University of Arkansas. Evaluated based on test scores, high school GPA, and the written scholarship application along with other factors such as first-generation college student status, financial need, legacy status, and underrepresented community status
- Amount: $1,000 up to $10,000 per year
- Deadline: February 1
University of the Ozarks
- Eligibility: Be admitted to the University of the Ozarks. Have a 2.5 – 3.75+ GPA
- Amount: $11,000 to $13,000 per year
- Deadline: Considered upon admission to University of the Ozarks
Consider in-state tuition and tuition reciprocity
In-state tuition costs are often less than half of out-of-state tuition costs. This is because state public colleges are typically funded by tax dollars which come from residents of the state. Public universities offer in-state students a lesser rate to attend their college over out-of-state students.
Here are a few well-known Arkansas universities and their in-state vs out-of-state tuition costs:
University of Arkansas
- In-state tuition: $7,666
- Out-of-state tuition: $25,420
How do you get in-state tuition?
It is clear that being an Arkansas resident significantly lowers Arkansas college tuition. So, you may be wondering, how do you get in-state tuition in Arkansas? In order to establish residency in Arkansas for in-state tuition, you must physically reside in Arkansas for at least 12 consecutive months prior to enrolling in college. Collect documents that prove your residency in Arkansas such as utility bills and rental agreements. Additionally, you should show intent to make Arkansas your permanent residence by obtaining an Arkansas driver’s license and/or registering your vehicle in Arkansas.
Overall, it is important to review the specific guidelines for establishing residency provided by the institution you plan to attend.
Does Arkansas have tuition reciprocity?
While not as expansive as programs in other states, Arkansas does offer tuition reciprocity. Arkansas is a member state of the Academic Common Market, which is a limited regional reciprocity agreement among select Southern states.
Arkansas scholarship spotlight
Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship
- Eligibility: Arkansas residents who are applying for a certificate program in a high-demand occupation. Must have graduated from an Arkansas high school or GED program
- Amount: Up to $800
- Deadline: Must apply at least 30 days prior to enrollment in an eligible program
Arkansas Baptist Foundation Scholarships
- Eligibility: The Arkansas Baptist Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for different schools, people, and areas of study. Must be an Arkansas resident, and of either the Baptist or Christian faith
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: Varies from February 1st to June 1st of each year
Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators Scholarships
- Eligibility: Arkansas graduating high school seniors, graduate students, and vocational students who are pursuing a variety of majors (includes associate and vocational degrees)
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: Varies from February to June of each year
Cornerstone Charitable Scholarship Trust
- Eligibility: African American students who have roots in Arkansas. Be 17-25 years old. Demonstrate good academic performance and financial need
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: March 30 of the year before enrollment
R. Preston Woodruff Jr. Scholarship
- Eligibility: Arkansas residents who are high school seniors and planning to attend a postsecondary education institution in Arkansas. Must complete an essay prompt and the college quiz
- Amount: $1,000 up to $4,000
- Deadline: April 1 of each year
Arkansas Farm Bureau scholarships
- Eligibility: Arkansas college juniors or seniors with at least two full semesters required for completion of their degree. Must be actively pursuing an agricultural/agricultural related degree at an Arkansas University
- Amount: $3,000
- Deadline: April 17 of each year
Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund
- Eligibility: Live in Arkansas. Meet the definition of a “single parent.” Not have previously earned a bachelor’s degree. Have a high school diploma or GED. Have a 2.0+ GPA. Complete the FAFSA. Be pursuing a degree or certification that leads to employment at family-supporting wages
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: May 18 and October 15 each year
Arkansas Nurses Foundation Scholarship
- Eligibility: Be an Arkansas Registered Nurse and a resident of Arkansas. Be admitted to an accredited nursing degree program
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: August 1 of each year
Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship – Traditional students
- Eligibility: Arkansas residents going into their first year of college. Have an ACT of 19+ (or equivalent on another test). Enroll full-time at a college or university
- Amount: $1,000 up to $5,000
- Deadline: July 1 of each year
Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship – Non-traditional students
- Eligibility: Be an Arkansas resident. Adults with college credits must have a 2.5+ GPA. Adults without credits must have a 19+ ACT score (or equivalent) or a 2.5+ GPA from an Arkansas high school. Must be the applicant’s first bachelor’s degree
- Amount: $1,000 up to $5,000
- Deadline: July 1 of each year
Additional Arkansas resources
Arkansas Community Foundation scholarship portal
Create an account with the Arkansas Community Foundation to browse their scholarship portal. Scholarships are usually accepted February 1 – April 1 annually.
Arkansas Student Loan Authority scholarship search
The Arkansas Student Loan Authority hosts a list of Arkansas scholarships for a variety of people and areas of study.
Arkansas Division of Higher Education
This is an outstanding website for both in-state and out-of-state students considering or attending college in Arkansas. In addition to information on colleges, the website offers resources for financial planning, information on veterans training, and links to AmeriCorps opportunities.
University of Arkansas Community Colleges
This listing of community colleges in Arkansas and what each offers is a great place to start your search, whether you are planning on transferring to a four-year college or university or seeking technical career training.
FAFSA guide
On October 1st of every year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens nationwide. As soon as they can, Arkansas students should complete the FAFSA to be eligible for federal student aid as well as some scholarships.
Keep reading
Scholarships are one of the best ways to lessen tuition costs. Students should consider applying for scholarships that are specifically designed for their unique demographic. Women, high school seniors and Black students can take advantage of specific scholarship opportunities. Some scholarships require essays and applications, but others are no-essay scholarships, making the application process easier. Remember, Scholarships360 is here to provide valuable resources for students throughout their educational journey!
Frequently asked questions about Arkansas scholarships
Does Arkansas offer free college?
Free college is also available for Arkansas senior citizens (those age 60 years or older) at the University of Arkansas. Enrollment is contingent on space availability of classes; senior registration period starts the Friday before classes begin. Qualifying seniors are also eligible for graduate-level study depending on availability of classes. If you are 60+ years old, check out the links above and take your first step.
Do I need to be an Arkansas resident to qualify for Arkansas scholarships?
What type of scholarships does Arkansas offer?
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