Arkansas State University Scholarships (2026–2027)
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Last Updated on June 21, 2026
What This Page Covers:- Tuition, housing, and average family net price
- Automatic merit ranges and qualifier benchmarks
- Flagship and hidden-gem awards
- Honors and stacking strategy
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~79%
- Middle 50% ACT: 25.5
- Middle 50% SAT: 1120
- Average GPA: 3.78
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Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 Arkansas State University at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Promise Plus (Off-Campus) & Promise Plus (On-Campus))
Average Net Price
$13,500/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
$2,000–$10,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
20 opportunities
6 automatic · 1 competitive · 10 hidden gem · 3 honors
Typical Qualifiers
GPA 3+; ACT 19+ / SAT 990+
Benchmarks for top-tier awards.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Nov 15 • FAFSA: Feb 1
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Promise Plus (Off-Campus) & Promise Plus (On-Campus)
Honors College
Honors Program Available
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at Arkansas State University (Read This First)
- A-State requires ACT or SAT scores for admission—this is not a test-optional school, even though many families assume it is.
- The automatic scholarships are helpful but modest; the big money (full tuition + housing) is tied to competitive awards like the Chancellor’s Scholarship.
- The Border State Waiver is a major value—but only applies to specific neighboring states, so double-check eligibility before assuming in-state pricing.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — Arkansas State University is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 25.5; SAT: 1120.
Average net price? About $13,500/year after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes — participates in ACM.
💰 Cost of Attendance at Arkansas State University 2026-2027
📅 2027–2028 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2026–2027). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2027–2028 numbers are released.
Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.
| Category (2026–2027) |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2 semesters) |
$10,430 |
$18,740 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$14,968 |
$14,968 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$25,398 |
$33,708 |
Average Federal Net Price: $13,500 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Good news for non-residents: A-State has programs that let many students pay
in-state tuition:
- Out-of-State Scholarship: ACT 24+ (1160 SAT) and 3.0 GPA → waives the $8,310 non-resident fee.
- Mileage Waiver: Automatic for residents of LA, MS, MO, OK, TN, TX → in-state tuition rate.
- Academic Common Market: For certain majors if not offered in your state → in-state tuition rate.
For more information, check out our plain english guide to ACM
Example: An out-of-state student’s billed total is about $30,690.
With the Out-of-State Scholarship waiving the $8,310 non-resident fee,
the billed total drops to approximately $22,380 — the same as the in-state amount.
Cost & Waiver FAQs
Who qualifies for in-state tuition if I live out of state?
Students from border states (LA, MS, MO, OK, TN, TX) automatically qualify. Others can qualify with a 24 ACT/1160 SAT and 3.0 GPA,
or through the Academic Common Market for certain majors.
How much can my family really save?
Roughly $8,310 per year in tuition and fees if you receive the Out-of-State Scholarship.
Additional savings may apply via the Mileage Waiver or ACM, depending on eligibility.
Do we need a separate application?
The Out-of-State Scholarship and Mileage Waiver apply automatically once your student meets the criteria.
The Academic Common Market requires an application through your state’s coordinator.
Sources:
https://www.astate.edu/a/finaid/tuition-fees/_cost-of-attendance/
https://www.astate.edu/a/finaid/tuition-fees/
https://www.asusystem.edu/headlines/asu-system-board-of-trustees-approves-budgets-tuition-for-fy2026
https://www.astate.edu/dA/ee462af28f/University%20Housing%20Rate%20Sheet%202025-26.pdf
https://www.astate.edu/a/finaid/types-of-finaid/scholarships/
https://www.astate.edu/a/registrar/students/residency/
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?106458-Arkansas-State-University-Main-Campus=
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Arkansas State University offers both automatic scholarships and a limited set of competitive awards based on GPA and ACT/SAT superscores. There’s no extra scholarship application for most—students are automatically reviewed upon admission and submission of all required academic records. All scholarships are renewable for 8 semesters with ongoing GPA and credit completion.
Automatic
A-State Trailblazer
📅 Deadline: November 1 (priority admission recommendation for full Trailblazer consideration)
✓ Renews (3.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1300 SAT👥 ~Limited cohort — funded based on institutional allocation and applicant pool each cycle. winners/yrOpen to current-year high school graduates entering A-State in the upcoming fall as first-time freshmen. A-State Online students are not eligible for institutional scholarships.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Trailblazer is the top merit tier and cannot be layered with Inspire, Enrichment, Endeavor, or A-State Scholar — you keep whichever institutional award is largest. Good news for out-of-state families: it can stack with state aid, federal aid, outside private scholarships, and A-State's out-of-state waivers up to your total cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
Trailblazer is A-State's newest top-tier merit award, worth $10,000 per year for up to four years (eight semesters) for eligible on-campus students. Renewal is straightforward: keep a 3.5 cumulative GPA and complete 15 A-State credit hours per term. Heads up on testing — the December ACT/SAT administration in the year prior to enrollment is the final test date counted for each incoming cohort, so plan test dates accordingly.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: High-achieving incoming freshmen with a 3.5+ GPA and ACT 28+ (or SAT 1300+) who apply early, meet the early-February admission deadline, and lock in acceptance by early March. Trailblazer recipients are also automatically screened for Honors College admission, so the strongest candidates typically land both.
Automatic
A-State Inspire
📅 Deadline: July 1 scholarship deadline
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA✎ ~25 ACT✎ ~1210 SATAvailable to current-year high school graduates only. A-State Online students are ineligible for institutional scholarships.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Inspire can't be layered with A-State's other academic tiers (Trailblazer, Enrichment, Endeavor, or A-State Scholar) — you receive whichever is largest. It CAN stack with the out-of-state waivers and outside aid up to cost of attendance, which is huge for non-resident families.
💡
Strategic Detail
Inspire pays $6,000 per year for up to eight semesters. Renewal is friendly: cumulative 3.0 GPA and 15 A-State hours per semester at the Jonesboro campus. It's the sweet spot for students who don't quite hit Trailblazer numbers but still bring strong academics.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Solid academic performers — 3.5+ GPA and ACT 25-27 (or SAT 1210-1290) — who submit their admission application by the July 1 deadline and plan to attend on-campus in Jonesboro full-time.
Automatic
A-State Enrichment
📅 Deadline: July 1 scholarship deadline
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~21 ACT✎ ~1060 SATApplies to current-year high school graduates attending the Jonesboro campus. Online-only programs are excluded.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Enrichment doesn't layer with Inspire, Endeavor, Trailblazer, or A-State Scholar — you keep the highest-value tier. It CAN combine with A-State's nonresident waivers and outside aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
💡
Strategic Detail
Enrichment pays $4,000 per year for up to eight semesters. Renewal expectations are reasonable: complete 15 A-State hours per term at the Jonesboro campus and maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: On-campus freshmen with a 3.0+ GPA and an ACT in the 21-24 range (or SAT 1060-1209) who meet the July 1 deadline and plan to enroll full-time.
Automatic
A-State Endeavor
📅 Deadline: July 1 scholarship deadline
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~19 ACT✎ ~990 SATAvailable to current-year high school graduates enrolling at the Jonesboro campus. Online-only programs are not eligible for institutional scholarships.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Endeavor doesn't combine with Inspire, Enrichment, Trailblazer, or A-State Scholar — you keep whichever institutional academic award is largest. It CAN pair with nonresident waivers and outside aid up to cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
Endeavor pays $2,000 per year, renewable up to eight semesters. Renewal keeps things simple: 15 A-State credit hours per term at the Jonesboro campus and a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: On-campus freshmen with 3.0+ GPAs and ACT scores in the 19-20 range (or SAT 990-1050) who meet the July 1 deadline and enroll full-time at Jonesboro.
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
Mileage Waiver
📅 Deadline: July 1 scholarship deadline
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🎓 All UndergradStudent-athletes receiving institutional athletic aid may not qualify — eligibility should be confirmed with A-State Athletic Compliance if that applies to your student.
✚
Stacking & Combining
The Mileage Waiver knocks the nonresident tuition differential off your bill so you effectively pay in-state tuition and fees. Best part — it stacks with A-State's academic scholarships (Inspire, Enrichment, Endeavor, Trailblazer, A-State Scholar) up to cost of attendance, which makes A-State remarkably affordable for border-state families.
💡
Strategic Detail
This is one of A-State's most powerful affordability levers. Because it wipes out the nonresident fee differential automatically, students from bordering states pay the same rate as Arkansas residents — no essay, no test-score minimum, no honors requirement. Combine it with any academic scholarship tier and the numbers get very compelling.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Full-time undergraduates from Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, or Texas who attend the Jonesboro campus and simply meet A-State's regular admission standards.
Automatic
Out-of-State Scholarship
📅 Deadline: July 1 scholarship deadline
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~24 ACT✎ ~1160 SATStudent-athletes receiving institutional athletic aid may not qualify — contact A-State Athletic Compliance for confirmation if that applies.
✚
Stacking & Combining
This waiver offsets the nonresident tuition differential so qualifying out-of-state students pay in-state tuition and fees. It stacks with A-State's academic tiers (Inspire, Enrichment, Endeavor, Trailblazer, A-State Scholar) and outside aid up to cost of attendance — which is often the deciding factor for out-of-state families.
💡
Strategic Detail
For families outside a bordering state, this is the primary path to in-state pricing at A-State. It's a waiver, not a fixed dollar award — the size depends on the current nonresident tuition differential, and it's applied automatically once you meet the score and GPA thresholds.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Nonresident students with a 3.0+ GPA and an ACT 24+ (or SAT 1160+) who enroll full-time on the Jonesboro campus.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
A-STATE uses ACT/SAT superscores for scholarship eligibility. The A-State Scholar and Trailblazer have additional deadlines and/or application components—see their pages for details. Some awards cannot be stacked with others; read the scholarship guide for rules.
Sources:
https://www.astate.edu/a/finaid/scholarships/
https://astate.academicworks.com/
https://astate.edu/info/admissions/scholarships/
https://astate.edu/
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
While many Arkansas State scholarships are automatic, a few highly selective programs offer much larger benefits for top applicants. These require essays, recommendations, and additional applications—and are only offered to a limited number of students each year.
App Required
A-State Scholar
📅 Deadline: Early February (application)
✓ Renews (3.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
$10,000–$18,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.5+ GPA✎ ~31 ACT✎ ~1400 SAT👥 ~Small competitive cohort — funded based on institutional allocation and applicant pool each cycle. winners/yrAwarded during the senior year of high school to current-year graduates entering A-State in the upcoming fall. Requires enrollment at the Jonesboro campus and Honors College membership.
✚
Stacking & Combining
A-State Scholar is A-State's flagship package and replaces the automatic academic scholarships and nonresident waivers — you don't stack it with Trailblazer, Inspire, Enrichment, Endeavor, or the OOS waivers. It CAN combine with outside private scholarships up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Two-step process. First, apply for admission as a current-year HS graduate and U.S. citizen. Then complete the separate A-State Scholar application — resume, essay, and two reference letters — at AState.edu/AStateScholar by the early-February deadline. If selected, accept the offer in Pack Portal by the early-March deadline.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
The Scholar package is worth up to $18,000 per year — up to $5,000 per semester for tuition and fees, plus up to $4,000 per semester for on-campus housing or a meal stipend. Students not living on campus receive the tuition portion only (around $10,000). Renewal requires 30 A-State credit hours per academic year, a 3.50 cumulative GPA, and continuous Honors College participation — worth planning around from day one.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A small cohort of top applicants — think 31+ ACT (or 1400+ SAT), 3.5+ GPA, strong Honors-caliber essays, leadership and service depth, and rigorous coursework. Applications that clearly demonstrate curiosity, impact, and college-ready writing rise to the top.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Note: These competitive awards cannot be stacked with other institutional scholarships. Recipients are typically among the most academically accomplished, with significant leadership, AP/IB coursework, and service.
Competitive Scholarship FAQs
Who gets these? The very top ~10–20 students in each incoming class for A-State Scholar, and a larger group for Trailblazer are selected based on a holistic review of leadership, rigor, and service.
Is everything covered? No—award values get close to full cost of attendance but may not cover every expense.
Can they be stacked? No—they replace other institutional merit awards.
When to apply? Complete admissions (and Scholar application) by Feb 1. Trailblazer candidates must “accept” in their MyDen portal after award notification in March.
Sources:
https://www.astate.edu/a/finaid/scholarships/
https://astate.edu/info/admissions/scholarships/
https://astate.edu/
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
Beyond automatic and competitive awards, Arkansas State offers several lesser-known programs that can make a real difference for the right student. These include need-based tuition guarantees, ROTC options, donor-funded awards, and opportunities tied to research or study abroad.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
C. Calvin Smith African-American Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
$500–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Limited; depends on annual donor funding. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with institutional and external awards subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the History Department or A-State scholarship portal according to posted instructions for the C. Calvin Smith scholarship.
Selection criteria: Departmental committee review emphasizing academic performance and commitment to teaching social sciences.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table lists this scholarship for African-American students majoring in Social Science Education (B.S.Ed.) with typical awards between $500 and $2,000 per year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
African-American students preparing to teach social sciences at the secondary level who demonstrate academic promise.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Departmental & Club Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Typically around February 1, though exact dates vary by fund.
Non-Renewable
$500–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Varies widely by department and club fund. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Generally stackable with institutional and external awards, provided total aid does not exceed cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Follow each college or club’s procedures—typically applying through AcademicWorks or departmental forms and maintaining active participation in organizations like Agriculture clubs, FFA, or other student groups.
Selection criteria: Departmental or club-based selection prioritizing GPA, involvement, and alignment with donor or organization priorities.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table summarizes common departmental and club scholarship ranges of $500–$2,000 across areas such as Agriculture, Education, and student organizations.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students actively engaged in departmental activities or student organizations who meet specific academic and involvement criteria.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Jon A. Linder/Douglas Jon Seitz Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
$500–$2,500/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Limited; dependent on endowed fund earnings. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can be combined with other scholarships and aid subject to cost-of-attendance caps.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the A-State Foundation or relevant college using the designated application form, documenting Arkansas residency, single-parent status, and completed undergraduate credits.
Selection criteria: Holistic evaluation of financial need, academic progress, and single-parent responsibilities.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Typical awards cited in CRP table range from $500–$2,500, depending on funding and applicant pool.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Single-parent Arkansas residents who have completed a minimum number of undergraduate hours and demonstrate financial and family responsibilities.
Full TuitionAutomaticgeographicneed_based
Promise Plus (Off-Campus)
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
last-dollar tuition and meal support grant
✔ Stackable
⚠ Arkansas‑resident, income‑limited last‑dollar award fully covering tuition and fees for off‑campus students.
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~19 ACT✎ ~990 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Pell, lottery, and institutional awards to fill remaining tuition and fee gaps plus about $1,000 meal plan and $500 express dollars per semester; cannot exceed cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table describes Promise Plus Off-Campus as covering tuition and fees plus a $1,000 meal plan and $500 express dollars per term for qualifying Arkansas residents with ACT 19+ and 3.0 GPA and family income under about $70,000.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Need-based Arkansas students who live off campus but qualify for Promise Plus and want built-in meal and express funds.
Full TuitionAutomaticgeographicneed_based
Promise Plus (On-Campus)
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
last-dollar tuition, fee, and housing grant
✔ Stackable
⚠ Arkansas‑resident, income‑capped last‑dollar program filling tuition and fee gaps and also covering on‑campus housing
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~19 ACT✎ ~990 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Last-dollar program that stacks on top of Pell, state lottery, and institutional awards to cover remaining tuition, mandatory fees, and on-campus housing; cannot exceed cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table summarizes on-campus Promise Plus as covering full tuition and fees plus remaining housing gap for eligible Arkansas residents with ACT 19+ (or SAT 990–1010) and 3.0 GPA and family income under roughly $70,000.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Arkansas residents with financial need who qualify for substantial Pell and lottery aid, meet ACT/SAT and GPA minimums, and enroll full-time on campus.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Study Abroad Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Program-specific; typically well before the departure term.
Non-Renewable
👥 ~Depends on available donor and institutional funds each year. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Intended to supplement federal, state, and institutional aid for overseas study; stackable up to the cost of attendance for the study-abroad term.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Study Abroad Office for A-State and partner-funded scholarships after acceptance into an approved study abroad program.
Selection criteria: Committee review focused on academic preparation, program fit, and quality of goals statement.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table lists typical awards of $500–$2,000 per term for eligible students participating in A-State-approved programs.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students in good academic standing who demonstrate clear educational goals for study abroad and submit strong applications.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Undergraduate Research Awards
📅 Deadline: Set by the Undergraduate Research Office for each application cycle.
Non-Renewable
👥 ~Limited by annual research funding; multiple awards across colleges. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Funds can be used for stipends, supplies, or travel and generally stack with other scholarships and aid.
📄
How to Apply
Work with a faculty mentor to submit an Undergraduate Research Award application through the research office, including a project description and budget.
Selection criteria: Research office review emphasizing project quality, feasibility, and student development.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table cites typical Undergraduate Research Awards in the $500–$1,500 range per project, varying by discipline and funding.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students in any major who secure a faculty mentor and present a feasible and meaningful research or creative project.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army ROTC (Red Wolves Battalion)
📅 Deadline: National and campus ROTC deadlines, often in senior year of high school or early in college.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
ROTC tuition/room-board coverage plus stipend
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Determined by Army allocations to the Red Wolves Battalion. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students may choose tuition and fee coverage or room and board options; scholarships include a monthly living stipend and book allowance and may stack with some institutional aid within Army rules.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through national Army ROTC boards or campus-based ROTC competitions; complete medical, academic, and fitness screening and sign a service commitment.
Selection criteria: Army evaluation of academic performance, leadership potential, and physical fitness.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table summarizes typical Army ROTC benefits at A-State, including full tuition or room and board plus a $420/month stipend and book allowance.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: U.S. citizens who meet Army academic and fitness standards and are committed to commissioning as Army officers after graduation.
App Required
ASTATE Leadership Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews
$1,000–$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Limited cohort of student leaders per year. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
May stack with some institutional, donor, and external awards within cost-of-attendance limits; stacking with large academic awards may be restricted.
📄
How to Apply
Submit a competitive Leadership Scholarship application through A-State’s scholarship portal with evidence of leadership involvement, resume, and references.
Selection criteria: Holistic review prioritizing sustained leadership, service, and academic readiness.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table summarizes this leadership-based program as offering $1,000–$4,000 per year plus potential housing allowance, awarded via a competitive application process.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming freshmen who pair high ACT/SAT and GPA with strong leadership records, service, and campus engagement potential.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
A-State Merit Scholarship (holistic)
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews
$1,000–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Varies; multiple awards funded by different donors and institutional sources. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Often stackable with automatic awards and departmental scholarships up to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the A-State scholarship portal, providing academic information, activities, service, and essays as requested.
Selection criteria: Holistic scoring based on academics, involvement, leadership, and service.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table aggregates several small holistic merit awards into this umbrella category with typical ranges of $1,000–$3,000 per year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with balanced academic and extracurricular profiles—good grades and test scores plus leadership and community involvement.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Band Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews
$500–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Varies annually according to band budget and instrumentation needs. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Band awards stack with academic and other scholarships up to cost-of-attendance; continuation depends on ensemble participation and musical performance.
📄
How to Apply
Audition with A-State Bands and commit to marching band in fall and a concert ensemble in spring following program procedures.
Selection criteria: Band directors assess musical ability, reliability, and ensemble contribution.
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table lists band scholarship ranges of roughly $500–$3,000 per year depending on instrument, talent, and ensemble needs.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Music majors and non-majors who successfully audition and consistently participate in A-State Bands.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Disclaimer: Award ranges are based on past A-State departmental and donor scholarship listings. Actual amounts can change year to year depending on funding and applicant pool. Always confirm current values on A-State’s scholarship portal.
Hidden Gems FAQs
Does Promise Plus make A-State tuition-free?
For qualifying Arkansas families, yes—it fills in the tuition and housing/meal gaps left after Pell and state aid. Students may still owe smaller fees or personal expenses.
Can ROTC stack with other aid?
Often yes, but it depends on the specific Army ROTC scholarship type. Some cover tuition, others cover room and board, so families should confirm with the ROTC office.
Are leadership and band scholarships only for certain majors?
No. Leadership and Merit scholarships look at academics and involvement, while Band scholarships are open to all majors (with audition and participation requirements).
When are deadlines for donor and departmental scholarships?
Most Honors and departmental donor scholarships close around February 1 each year, but dates vary by fund. Always check the A-State Foundation and department pages.
🎖️ Honors College
For high-achieving students, the Honors College at Arkansas State University offers a smaller community within the larger campus. It’s designed to give undergraduates more challenge, closer faculty mentorship, and the kinds of experiences—like research and thesis projects—that prepare them for graduate school or competitive careers.
What a Typical A-State Honors Student Looks Like:
ACT 28+ (1300 SAT*) and a 3.5+ GPA, with a transcript full of rigorous coursework, leadership roles in clubs or service, and a genuine curiosity for research or creative projects.
*Estimate based on published admission markers
Honors Perks that Matter:
- Priority class registration each semester
- Access to small, discussion-based Honors seminars
- Dedicated Honors housing in the Living-Learning Community
- Funding opportunities for research, travel, and study abroad
- Thesis option that helps with grad school or professional prep
Honors-Specific Scholarships
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Hoeper Family Honors Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies annually — typically the late-winter Honors donor scholarship cycle
✓ Renews
$1,000–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Limited by Hoeper Family endowed fund earnings and Honors selection each year. winners/yr🎓 All UndergradRestricted to Honors College members. Specific criteria and dollar amounts may vary from year to year based on donor guidelines.
✚
Stacking & Combining
This is a donor award, so it stacks nicely on top of institutional merit scholarships, nonresident waivers, and other private awards up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
During the annual Honors donor scholarship cycle, current Honors College students submit an application through A-State AcademicWorks describing their academic record, out-of-state residency status, and financial circumstances. Selection and dollar amounts are set each year by the Honors College.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
This is one of the private scholarships the Honors College highlights for its students. Amounts and deadlines are set each cycle rather than fixed — students should check AcademicWorks in the fall for exact criteria.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Out-of-state Honors College students with strong academics and demonstrated financial need who apply through the Honors donor portal on AcademicWorks.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Experience Grants (HEG)
📅 Deadline: Deadlines vary by term and activity — applications typically due in advance of the experience
Non-Renewable
$100–$1,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Depends on annual Honors enrichment funding and the pool of qualified proposals. winners/yr🎓 All UndergradAvailable only to Honors College students planning an approved experience. Students should consult the Honors College directly for current cycle dates and application specifics.
✚
Stacking & Combining
One-time experience-based award. Because it's applied to specific project costs (travel, registration, materials), it stacks freely with tuition scholarships and waivers.
📄
How to Apply
Current Honors College students submit an Honors Experience Grant application outlining a proposed research project, study abroad experience, internship, or conference — with a clear budget. Awards are competitive and reviewed by the Honors College.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
HEG is one of the Honors College's most under-used levers. It's not a tuition scholarship — it's a targeted grant for the kind of resume-building experience (research, conferences, study abroad) that makes graduate school and top employers pay attention. Students should talk to the Honors College early to plan a proposal.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Engaged Honors students who develop well-planned experiential learning projects — undergraduate research, study abroad, conference presentations — and secure faculty or program mentorship.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Shelby Rhodes Honors Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies annually — typically the early-spring Honors donor scholarship cycle
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.3+ GPA👥 ~A small number of recipients each year based on donor funding. winners/yr🎓 UpperclassmenRestricted to Honors College members at the junior or senior level. Specific criteria may vary slightly year to year.
✚
Stacking & Combining
One-time donor award that layers on top of existing institutional and Honors scholarships up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Upper-division Honors College students apply through the annual Honors donor scholarship process on AcademicWorks, highlighting leadership, campus involvement, and academic performance.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
The Shelby Rhodes award recognizes upper-division Honors students who show up as leaders — think Honors Council, campus organizations, service projects. It's a smaller dollar amount but a meaningful line on a graduate school or fellowship application.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Junior and senior Honors students with 3.25+ GPAs and notable leadership and service inside the Honors College and across the wider campus community.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Note: Award amounts are based on recent A-State Honors listings; they may vary year to year depending on donor funding and applicant pool.
Honors College FAQs
Is Honors admission automatic?
No. While high-achieving students are flagged during admission review, you must confirm interest and meet GPA/test benchmarks.
Does Honors add time to my degree?
Not if planned correctly. The senior thesis is built to be completed within your major, so Honors does not extend graduation.
When should my student apply?
As early as possible after admission. For top scholarships, most applications are due by February 1 each year.
Is there extra funding for Honors students?
Yes. Experience Grants and donor scholarships provide additional support for research, travel, and enrichment beyond the classroom.
⭐ College Specialty
Arkansas State University may not be as large as some flagship schools, but it has carved out a reputation for practical, career-focused programs that serve both Arkansas and the wider region. Parents often find that A-State offers strong pipelines into health care, emergency management, and bioscience fields—areas where employers are actively hiring. It’s also a teaching-focused public university (not R1), which means undergraduates often get more faculty interaction and hands-on opportunities earlier in their studies.
Nursing & Health Professions: A-State’s College of Nursing & Health Professions is one of the largest and most respected in Arkansas, preparing students for critical shortage fields like nursing, physical therapy, and clinical lab sciences. Its graduates have some of the highest NCLEX pass rates in the state.
- Biosciences Research: Home to the Arkansas Biosciences Institute, a statewide agricultural and medical research hub that provides undergraduates with hands-on lab access.
- Emergency Management: Among the first universities nationwide to offer a bachelor’s degree in Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management, with alumni working in FEMA and state agencies.
- Engineering & Robotics: A growing College of Engineering & Computer Science with labs in robotics and advanced manufacturing, connecting students to regional industry pipelines.
- Business & Agriculture: Well-established programs in Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship that support Arkansas’s largest economic sectors.
Final Thoughts
Sorting through scholarships and costs can feel like a full-time job, but Arkansas State makes the process a little easier with clear automatic awards, meaningful competitive options, and a strong Honors College for students who want extra challenge. Add in hidden gems like Promise Plus, ROTC, and departmental aid, and families have more ways than you might expect to make A-State affordable. The key is knowing which programs your student qualifies for early—so you can stack the right pieces together.
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