University of Texas at Arlington Scholarships – Full Guide for Parents

🎓 University of Texas at Arlington Scholarships (2025–2026)

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What This Page Covers:
  • Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
  • Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
  • Competitive and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
  • Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way

📊 Admissions Snapshot

  • Acceptance Rate: ~80% (CDS 2024–25)
  • Middle 50% ACT: 20–26
  • Middle 50% SAT: 1020–1230
  • Average HS GPA: 3.45

Source: UTA Common Data Set 2024–25 and Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →

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University of Texas at Arlington at a Glance

Average Net Price
$14,849
Average after grants and scholarships (College Scorecard 2025)
Automatic Merit
$1,000–$8,000/yr (Maverick Academic Scholarships)
Automatic based on GPA/test; ≥$1,000 triggers in-state tuition waiver
Typical Qualifiers
GPA 3.5+ • ACT 25+ • SAT 1200+
Higher awards for early applicants with strong academics
Testing Policy
Test-optional through 2025–26
Submitting scores may strengthen merit consideration
Key Deadlines
Priority: Feb 14 • Final: Jul 15
FAFSA priority: Mar 15 (apply early for state aid consideration)
Honors College
Holistic admission (typical GPA 3.5+)
Offers small seminars, leadership tracks, and research opportunities
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Presidential Honors Scholarship (Full Tuition)
Covers full in-state tuition; competitive and limited
Residency & Waivers
Competitive Scholarship Waiver (≥$1,000 → in-state rate)
Saves nonresident students about 50% in tuition costs
Verified from UTA Scholarships & Financial Aid (2025–26).
Last verified: October 14, 2025

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) combines accessible admissions with strong merit opportunities—especially for out-of-state families. Maverick Academic Scholarships reward academic achievement automatically, and even a $1,000 award can qualify for in-state tuition.

Early applicants tend to secure higher-tier scholarships, and most students stack UTA awards with Texas state programs like the TEXAS Grant for additional savings.

FAQ

Does UTA offer automatic scholarships? Yes — Maverick Academic Scholarships are automatic for eligible freshmen based on GPA and test scores.

Can out-of-state students get in-state tuition? Yes — nonresidents earning at least $1,000 in UTA scholarships qualify for the Competitive Scholarship Waiver.

What’s the average net price? About $14,849 after grants and scholarships (College Scorecard 2025).

When should students apply? Apply by February 14 for priority merit and aid consideration.

Sources:
https://www.collegedata.com/college-search/University-of-Texas-at-Arlington
https://www.acceptancerate.com/schools/the-university-of-texas-at-arlington
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/maverick-academic-scholarship
https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/scholarships/maverick-academic-scholarship
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?228769-The-University-of-Texas-at-Arlington
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/presidential-honors-scholarship
https://www.uta.edu/fao

💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Texas at Arlington (2025–2026)

The following represent the estimated direct costs for a full-time undergraduate student living on campus at UTA. Totals include tuition, mandatory fees, and average housing and meal plan expenses for the 2025–2026 academic year.

In-State Out-of-State
Tuition & Mandatory Fees $11,728 $29,300
Housing & Meals (average) $11,200 $11,200
Total (Direct/Billed) $22,928 $40,500

Note: These are the primary billed costs for tuition, fees, and housing. Additional expenses such as books (~$900), transportation (~$2,000), and personal costs (~$2,500) can add roughly $3,000–$5,000 per year depending on your situation.

📉 Average Net Price (after aid)

According to federal data, the average net price—what families actually pay after scholarships and grants—is about $14,849 per year. This figure varies by income and aid eligibility but represents a realistic midpoint for most UTA undergraduates.

🌎 Out-of-State Savings & Academic Common Market (Graduate Only)

UTA participates in the Academic Common Market (ACM) for graduate programs only. Eligible students from participating SREB states may pay in-state tuition for approved programs not available in their home state.

While UTA does not offer general undergraduate reciprocity, nonresident students can still qualify for in-state tuition through the Competitive Scholarship Waiver. Earning at least $1,000 in competitive UTA scholarships typically triggers this waiver—saving families more than $17,000 per year.

Example: Out-of-state tuition of about $29,300 can drop to the in-state rate (~$11,700) with a qualifying waiver, reducing costs by over 50%.

❓ Cost & Waiver FAQs

How much can families save with a nonresident waiver?
The waiver reduces tuition from about $29,000 to the in-state rate of $11,700—saving around $17,000 each year for qualifying students.

Does UTA offer the Academic Common Market for undergraduates?
No. The ACM applies only to graduate-level programs in Texas, including those at UTA. Undergraduate students should look for competitive scholarships instead.

Is the nonresident waiver automatic?
Yes — if a student earns at least $1,000 in UTA-designated competitive scholarships for the academic year. No separate application is needed.

Sources:
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/average-cost
https://www.uta.edu/business-affairs/student-accounts/about-tuition/ay-charts-25-26
https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/edu/228769/the-university-of-texas-at-arlington/tuition/
https://www.uta.edu/campus-ops/housing/reshalls/reshall-rates
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?228769-The-University-of-Texas-at-Arlington
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/maverick-academic-scholarship
https://www.hhloans.com/types-of-financial-aid/competitive-scholarship-waiver/
https://www.sreb.org/AcademicCommonMarket

Automatic Merit Scholarships — University of Texas at Arlington

Test score use: UTA is test-optional for admission, but test scores can influence scholarship review. The Presidential Scholarship requires an SAT or ACT score. UTA uses your best single-date ACT composite; for SAT, multiple sources indicate UTA considers highest section scores across dates (confirm with Admissions).
Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility (plain English) Separate App? Renewable? Who Actually Wins? Deadline
Presidential Scholarship $10,000/yr + non-resident tuition waiver (if applicable) Top academics; SAT or ACT required for consideration; holistic review of GPA, rank, rigor, and scores No Yes (up to 4 years; maintain criteria) High-achieving TX and nonresident admits; strongest test submitters fare best March 1 priority (apply & submit scores)
Maverick Academic Scholarship ~$1,000–$8,000/yr (tiered) Automatic with admission; weighted toward GPA, rank, rigor; strong SAT/ACT can increase amount No Yes (up to 4 years; maintain criteria) Many 3.5–3.7+ GPAs with solid rigor; higher tiers are more competitive March 1 priority

Notes: Presidential includes the non-resident waiver when awarded. UTA’s priority scholarship deadline is March 1; earlier submission improves odds while funds last. Amounts are competitive and can vary year to year.

Automatic Scholarships — FAQ

Is there a separate application?
No. Awards above are admission-based; just apply and submit materials by the March 1 priority date.

Does UTA superscore?
UTA reviews the highest single-date ACT composite. For the SAT, multiple sources indicate UTA considers highest section scores across test dates; confirm with Admissions when you send scores.

Who typically gets Presidential vs. Maverick?
Presidential recipients are among the strongest academic profiles and must submit SAT/ACT. Maverick spans a broader range of solid GPAs and rigor; scores help push into higher Maverick tiers.

Do these stack with other aid?
Yes, up to Cost of Attendance. Presidential includes a nonresident tuition waiver if you’re out-of-state.

Sources:
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/presidential-scholar
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/maverick-academic-scholarship
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/university-of-texas-arlington-presidential-scholarship
https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/scholarships/presidential-scholarship-university-of-texas-at-arlington
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships
https://www.uta.edu/admissions/apply/international-undergraduate/international-freshmen
https://www.hellouni.org/blogs/usa-university/what-you-need-to-know-about-ut-arlington-admissions-requirements/
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/university-of-texas-arlington-maverick-academic-scholarship
https://www.instagram.com/p/DGWWK5pyLvA/
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/competitive-scholarship-non-resident-tuition-waiver

Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships)

UT Arlington’s most prestigious scholarship is the Terry Foundation Scholarship. It’s highly competitive and requires nomination, essays, and interviews. Other opportunities are housed within the Mav ScholarShop portal, but this is the only true full-ride award available to incoming freshmen.

Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility Separate App? Renewable? Who Actually Wins? Deadline
Terry Foundation Scholarship Full cost of attendance — tuition, fees, books, housing, and meals; may include study abroad stipend Texas residents with strong academics, leadership, and demonstrated need; must complete FAFSA/TASFA; finalists interview Yes (UTA nomination + Terry application) Yes (4 years) Top 10% graduates with leadership/service and compelling personal stories; interview performance is crucial Dec 1

Note: UT Arlington’s competitive scholarship options are limited. Most additional opportunities appear in the Mav ScholarShop database (see Hidden Gems section below).

Competitive Scholarship FAQ

What makes the Terry Scholarship competitive?
It’s awarded through a statewide nonprofit foundation, requiring both UTA nomination and a separate application. The process includes essays, recommendations, and finalist interviews.

Is it worth applying?
Yes. It’s a full ride that covers tuition, housing, and meals, but selection is extremely competitive—students should have a strong backup plan.

How can students improve their chances?
Focus on authentic leadership, service, and personal storytelling. The interview phase heavily weighs communication, resilience, and impact beyond academics.

Sources:
https://terryfoundation.org
https://www.uta.edu/student-success/resources/terry-scholars
https://www.uta.edu/student-success/resources/terry-scholars/first-year
https://www.uta.edu/student-success/resources/terry-scholars/first-year/terry-application
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/departmental-scholarships
https://uta.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com/Scholarships/Search
https://uta.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com
https://www.uta.edu/student-success/directory-terry
https://terryfoundation.org/apply/traditional-scholarship-faqs/
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarships/the-terry-foundation-scholarship-at–the-university-of-texas-at-arlington

💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships (UTA)

These aren’t the big automatic awards—you’ll usually find them in Mav ScholarShop or inside a college/department page. They’re stackable for many students and worth the extra application.

Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility (plain English) Separate App? Renewable? Who Actually Wins? Deadline
Departmental Scholarships $500–$5,000/yr Awards from Engineering, Business, Science, Nursing, Education, Liberal Arts, etc.; GPA, essays, involvement Yes — Mav ScholarShop/college form Varies Students who complete the general + departmental apps thoroughly Jan–Mar
Robert D. Riley Endowed Scholarship $4,000/yr (up to 4 yrs) Incoming freshmen not in Honors; academic promise + financial need Yes — via Mav ScholarShop Yes (4 years if criteria met) High-potential students who missed big automatic/Honors awards Feb 15
Maverick Marching / Pep Band & Music Performance $500–$4,000/yr Audition; enroll in ensemble; maintain participation (all majors eligible) Yes — audition + music app Yes (while active) Strong players who audition on time; section leaders often higher Jan–Mar (auditions)
Study Abroad Scholarships (incl. Billy & Tilly Wasson) $500–$2,000 Approved program; some prefer first-gen or financial need Yes — study abroad office/portal No (per trip/term) Students who plan early and align dates with program selection Oct (spring) / Mar (summer/fall)
Community Service / Maverick Advantage Awards $500–$1,500 Documented volunteerism, leadership, reflection statements Yes — campus application Some Students with sustained service (not one-off events) Nov & Mar cycles
UTA Maverick Spirit Scholarship $500–$1,000 Outstanding campus involvement; roles in orgs/governance Yes — student affairs/portal No Highly engaged students with impact to show Feb–Mar
Greek Life Leadership Scholarship $500–$1,500 Active fraternity/sorority members; officer roles preferred Yes — FSL office No Members who pair leadership with service or GPA goals Late Feb
Dean’s Leadership Circle (Business) ~$2,000+ COB majors; GPA; leadership/internship activity Yes — College of Business Varies Business students with clear leadership trajectory Feb 1–Mar 1
Yardi Scholars (Business) $1,000+ (varies) Business majors; financial need; first-gen preferred Yes — College of Business/Mav ScholarShop Varies First-gen business students with FAFSA on file Mar 1
Second-Year Leader Award $1,000+ Sophomores; nominated by faculty/staff; hold a campus role Yes — nomination + short form No Engaged second-years leading org projects or teams Oct (fall) / Feb (spring)
Shirlee J. & Taylor Gandy Endowed Varies Sophomores w/ need; preference first-gen without big freshman merit Yes — UTA Foundation/Mav ScholarShop Varies Students overlooked early who show persistence and need Mar 1
Native American Student Association Scholarship Varies Active with UTA’s NASA; service/advocacy statements Yes — NASA org Varies Students engaged with Native American community initiatives Late Feb
Texas Leadership Scholars (statewide program) Full support + mentoring/network Top TX seniors; leadership, need, community impact; UTA participates Yes — state nomination/app Yes (up to 4 yrs) High-achieving first-gen/low-income leaders Dec–Jan
Army ROTC Scholarships Full tuition + fees + $420/mo stipend + $1,200/yr books Academic, fitness, medical; service commitment; local battalion at UTA Yes — national ROTC boards Yes (meet standards) Leaders with strong academics/fitness who want to commission Senior-year boards (Oct–Mar)

Why ranges? Departmental and donor funding shifts each year and some awards scale with role (e.g., section leader). Dates shown are typical cycles—confirm current windows in Mav ScholarShop or with the program office.

Hidden Gems — Quick FAQ

  • Stacking? Often yes. These can pair with main merit up to Cost of Attendance.
  • Biggest misses? Not opening Mav ScholarShop early, skipping department apps, or waiting on band/pep auditions.
  • Who tends to win? Early filers with a clear fit (first-gen need for certain funds, documented leadership for campus awards, audition-ready for music).
Sources:
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/departmental-scholarships
https://uta.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com
https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/business/news-and-events/releases/2025/07/16/scholarship-announcement
https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/business/about/deans-leadership-circle
https://www.uta.edu/student-affairs/maverick-advantage
https://www.uta.edu/student-affairs/maverick-advantage/faq
https://www.uta.edu/student-affairs/oie/study-abroad/abroad-scholarships
https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/liberal-arts/departments/music/ensembles/bands/marching-band
https://utah.academicworks.com/opportunities/41813
https://www.uta.edu/news/news-releases/2023/10/16/yardi-scholars
https://utaubms2.wordpress.com/about/

Honors College at The University of Texas at Arlington

UT Arlington’s Honors College is not automatic—students must apply separately, even with high grades and test scores. Admission is competitive and based on GPA, rigor, leadership, service, and essays. While there’s no dedicated Honors dorm, the program offers close faculty mentorship and helps make a large campus feel more personal.

What a Typical Honors College Student Looks Like:
  • GPA: 3.7–4.0 unweighted
  • Test Scores (if submitted): ACT 28–32 / SAT 1300–1450
  • Several AP/IB/Dual Credit or Honors courses in high school
  • Leadership roles, service projects, or academic competitions
  • Strong writing skills — essays matter
  • Often involved in research, creative projects, or community outreach

Honors College Scholarships

Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility Separate App? Renewable? Who Actually Wins? Deadline
Presidential Honors Scholarship $13,000/year + non-resident waiver Top 5% class rank or GPA ~3.9+ and SAT 1400+ / ACT 31+; must be admitted to Honors No — automatic with Honors admission Yes (4 years) Highest-achieving freshmen who apply early with test scores Dec 1 (priority)
Honors College Merit Scholarship $1,000–$2,000/year Incoming or current Honors College students; strong GPA and engagement Yes — via Honors portal Yes Engaged Honors students with consistent academic excellence March 1
Carolyn A. Barros Founding Dean Scholarship Varies Honors students showing exceptional academics and leadership Yes — Honors College Varies Top Honors students recognized for campus impact and service March 1
Charles R. Knerr Scholarship Varies Honors College students in good standing; merit-based Yes Varies Well-rounded Honors members with high GPAs March 1
Nancy C. Sommerman Scholarship Varies Honors students demonstrating both need and merit Yes Varies Active Honors students balancing academics and service March 1
Dana Dunn Scholarship for Service Learning Varies Honors students involved in service-learning or community impact projects Yes Varies Students combining academics with civic engagement March 1
Stuckler Family Endowed Scholarship Varies Honors students; merit-based Yes Varies High-performing Honors students with leadership or service March 1
McMahon Honors College Study Abroad Scholarship $500–$2,000 Honors students participating in approved study abroad programs Yes — Honors College No Students planning academic or research-based international travel Varies by term
Alan & Bonnie Petsche Award for Honors Study Abroad Varies Honors students conducting independent or faculty-guided research abroad Yes No Students pursuing substantial academic projects overseas Varies by term
Honors College Early Completion Scholarship $500 (one-time) Students who complete Honors requirements early (including Senior Project) Yes No Proactive students finishing Honors work before senior year April 1

Note: Dollar ranges (e.g., $1,000–$2,000 or $500–$2,000) reflect typical award levels. Actual amounts vary by year, applicant pool, and available funding.

Honors College – FAQs

Do I have to apply to join the Honors College?
Yes. You must submit a separate application with essays and recommendations in addition to your UTA admission application.

What GPA or test scores are expected?
Successful applicants usually have a 3.7+ GPA and ACT 28+/SAT 1300+. Strong essays and involvement can offset slightly lower numbers.

Can I apply after freshman year?
Yes. Current UTA students with strong GPAs can apply later to join the Honors College.

Do Honors scholarships stack with automatic merit?
Often, yes. Students admitted to Honors can sometimes stack the Presidential Honors Scholarship with departmental or donor awards.

Sources:
https://catalog.uta.edu/honors/
https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/honors/prospective-students/admission-requirements
https://www.uta.edu/administration/fao/scholarships/presidential-honors-scholarship
https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/honors/current-students/scholarships-fellowships
https://cdn.web.uta.edu/-/media/project/website/honors-college/documents/current-students/honors_early_completion_scholarship_application.ashx?revision=04e2523b-1e26-448e-a27a-d11b89992665
https://www.uta.edu/student-affairs/oie/study-abroad/abroad-scholarships
https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/honors/about/benefits
https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/honors/academics/advising/policies-procedures
https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/honors/academics/honors-degree
https://www.reddit.com/r/utarlington/comments/1jh15zp/uta_honors_college_scholarship_and_living/

About UT Arlington’s Academic Strengths

**UT Arlington** is a dynamic R-1 research university situated in the heart of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. With a strong commitment to both access and excellence, it combines top-tier research activity with student-centered programs that drive upward mobility. Its recognition as a Hispanic-Serving and Asian American & Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution further underscores its mission to amplify diverse talent and social impact.

Standout Program: The Civil Engineering Department within UTA’s College of Engineering consistently ranks among the top 33 nationwide — distinguishing the university as a major engineering hub in Texas. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
  • Online Graduate Education (Master’s): Ranked #26 nationally and #10 for veterans by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Online Nursing Master’s Program: Ranked #18 for veterans by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Part-Time MBA: Ranked #58 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report (2025).
  • Graduate Social Work Program: Ranked #43 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Top-Ranked Overall Public University: Moved up to #126 as a top public university and earned the #63 spot for innovation nationally.
  • Highly Ranked for Access & Earnings: UTA is #1 in the UT System for access and top-10 in Texas for graduate earnings.
  • Exceptional Diversity & Mobility: Ranked #4 in Texas for advancing social mobility and #6 nationwide for undergraduate ethnic diversity.

📌 Closing Thoughts

UT Arlington is one of those schools that sneaks up on families. On paper, it’s a huge public university in the middle of Dallas–Fort Worth — but once you start digging, you see the pieces that make it a real value: strong automatic merit, a chance at major competitive awards, and a long list of hidden scholarships tied to leadership, music, first-generation status, and even ROTC. Layer that with an Honors College that comes with its own Presidential award, and you’ve got plenty of ways to bring the price down without sacrificing quality.

If your student is serious about nursing, engineering, business, or any of UTA’s nationally ranked programs, this campus can feel like a launchpad. And for first-gen or cost-conscious families, the mix of automatic aid and “hidden gem” opportunities means you don’t have to rule out a big metro school. The key is applying early, watching those March 1 deadlines, and encouraging your student to throw their hat in the ring for more than just the obvious scholarships.

Parent to parent: The earlier you know what UTA is looking for — in GPA, test scores, and leadership — the easier it is to line things up before senior year. A little planning now can mean thousands saved later.

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