University of Texas at Arlington Scholarships (2026–2027)
← Back to college scholarships hub • See Texas aid & Grants
Last Updated on June 7, 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: ~80%
- Middle 50% ACT: 20-26
- Middle 50% SAT: 1020-1230
- Average GPA: 3.45
Comparing multiple schools?
Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 University of Texas at Arlington at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Terry Foundation Scholarship & Texas Leadership Scholars (statewide program))
Average Net Price
$14,849/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
$1,000–$10,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
32 opportunities
2 automatic · 1 competitive · 13 hidden gem · 16 honors
Merit Evaluation
Holistic Review / Varies
Merit depends on profile rigor.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
No superscore.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Feb 14 • FAFSA: Mar 15
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Terry Foundation Scholarship & Texas Leadership Scholars (statewide program)
Honors College
Honors Program Available
Residency & Waivers
competitive_scholarship_waiver
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at University of Texas at Arlington (Read This First)
- You need at least a $1,000 Maverick Academic Scholarship to unlock the in-state tuition waiver — miss that threshold and out-of-state costs stay high.
- The February 14 priority deadline is where the best merit money is awarded — later applicants are often admitted but receive less aid.
- It’s test-optional for admission, but submitting SAT/ACT scores can help push you into a higher scholarship tier.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — University of Texas at Arlington is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 20-26; SAT: 1020-1230.
Average net price? About $14,849/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes — participates in competitive_scholarship_waiver.
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Texas at Arlington 2026-2027
📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 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) |
$11,728 |
$29,300 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$11,200 |
$11,200 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$22,928 |
$40,500 |
Average Federal Net Price: $14,849 — 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.
🌎 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
Applying to Texas public universities?
Before you assume how merit works, read the
Texas Merit Scholarship Guidelines.
We break down GPA recalculation, rank rules, “as funds permit,” renewal credit hours, and out-of-state waiver mechanics.
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).
Automatic
Presidential Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with other UTA, state, and outside aid up to the cost of attendance. When awarded with the non-resident tuition waiver, out-of-state families essentially pay Texas in-state rates — that combo alone can quietly save tens of thousands over four years.
💡
Strategic Detail
$10,000 per year, up to $40,000 over four years of eligibility. SAT or ACT score required for consideration. Renewal needs 30 UTA credit hours per year and a 3.0 UTA GPA per scholarship terms and conditions.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
The very top of UTA's admitted freshman pool — students with elite high school GPAs, very rigorous course loads (lots of AP/IB/dual credit), and strong test scores. Both Texas residents and out-of-state students can win this one, and a March 1 file is non-negotiable.
Automatic
Maverick Academic Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$1,000–$8,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tiered $1,000 to $8,000 per year and renewable for up to three additional years (four years total) with 30 UTA hours per year and a 3.0 UTA GPA. Stacks with other awards up to cost of attendance, and an out-of-state student selected for this award may also receive the non-resident tuition waiver — a huge cost-saver.
💡
Strategic Detail
Automatic freshman merit award, tiered $1,000 to $8,000 per year. Test-optional for consideration but strongly encouraged because scores can push you into a higher award tier. Renewable up to three additional years with 30 UTA hours per year and a 3.0 UTA GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Strong-to-very-strong freshman profiles who just miss the Presidential cutoff — think roughly top quarter of class, ~3.7+ unweighted GPA, solid rigor, and either competitive test scores or a clearly rigorous transcript. Test scores are optional but submitting them often lifts you into a higher dollar tier.
* 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.
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.
Full RideApp Required
Terry Foundation Scholarship
📅 Deadline: mid-January
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Ride
full_ride_external
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Terry covers the full cost of tuition, fees, books, and on-campus living after other grants and scholarships are applied — so other gift aid stacks underneath it, not on top. A study abroad stipend is also possible. This is one of the most generous awards in Texas.
📄
How to Apply
The UTA Terry application opens in mid-October inside Mav ScholarShop with a mid-January deadline. Texas residents complete the Terry application, submit the FAFSA listing UTA (school code 003656), and the UTA general scholarship application. UTA selects nominees from this pool — strong candidates are typically invited to interview with the Terry Foundation as finalists.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Administered at UTA through the Division of Student Success. Includes housing support and possible study abroad stipend. UTA has partnered with the Terry Foundation since 2015.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving Texas residents with a real track record of leadership and service who also have clear financial need. The Terry team is looking for future leaders, not just transcripts — students who can talk about impact, growth, and grit in essays and interviews tend to advance.
* 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: 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.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Yardi Scholars (Business)
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
May stack with other business/merit awards.
📄
How to Apply
Submit business/ScholarShop application by Mar 1; prioritized for business majors with financial need, first-generation college status preferred, FAFSA required.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Yearly funding, with preference for first-gen/financial need.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
First-generation business students with FAFSA on file.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Departmental Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Jan–Mar
✓ Renews
$500–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable if within cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Apply in Mav ScholarShop and/or college/department application Jan–Mar. Awards available in all UTA colleges.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Most colleges have multiple named endowments and need/merit funds.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students completing both general and departmental applications thoroughly.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Maverick Marching / Pep Band & Music Performance
📅 Deadline: Jan–Mar (auditions)
✓ Renews
$500–$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with other UTA and outside awards.
📄
How to Apply
Audition and submit music app Jan–Mar; enroll in ensemble and maintain active participation.
🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Award may vary based on section leader status and annual funds.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Strong players who audition on time, especially section leaders.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Study Abroad Scholarships (incl. Billy & Tilly Wasson)
📅 Deadline: Oct (spring) / Mar (summer/fall)
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with other awards if cost limits not exceeded.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through study abroad office or portal for approved UTA study abroad program; most are awarded per trip/term. First-gen and need students prioritized.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Awarded per trip. Some named funds have additional requirements.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who plan early and coordinate timing with UTA study abroad office.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Community Service / Maverick Advantage Awards
📅 Deadline: Nov & Mar cycles
✓ Renews
$500–$1,500/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Some are renewable, others are single-year.
📄
How to Apply
Document sustained volunteer/service/leadership; complete campus app during Nov & Mar cycles.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Reflective statement often required. Focus on sustained, not single-event, service.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with meaningful service records and strong applications.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
UTA Maverick Spirit Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb–Mar
Non-Renewable
$500–$1,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Non-renewable award, but can be combined with other scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via student affairs portal during Feb–Mar window. Must document campus involvement, leadership, or service roles.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Sought after by students engaged in several student orgs or campus governance.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Highly involved and impactful campus participants.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Greek Life Leadership Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Late Feb
Non-Renewable
$500–$1,500/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Pairs well with other leadership, service, or merit funds.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL) office by late February; active members/officers preferred.
💡
Strategic Detail
Recommended for officers, but open to all active Greek Life students.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Active students who mix leadership, service, and academic success in Greek Life.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Dean’s Leadership Circle (Business)
📅 Deadline: Feb 1–Mar 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with other business or leadership funds.
📄
How to Apply
Business students apply via College of Business portal or Mav ScholarShop; must show GPA and leadership/internship experience. Typically open Feb 1–Mar 1.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Priority to students with significant leadership development.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Clear business leadership and/or demonstrated internship/engagement.
App Required⚠ Sophomore Only
Second-Year Leader Award
📅 Deadline: Oct (fall) / Feb (spring)
Non-Renewable
🎓 Sophomore
✚
Stacking & Combining
Non-renewable; not stackable due to limited eligibility.
📄
How to Apply
Faculty/staff nomination required, plus short application, for sophomores holding campus leadership roles. Apply Oct (fall) or Feb (spring).
💡
Strategic Detail
Some years restrict to only current sophomores.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Campus-engaged sophomores leading student orgs, teams, or projects.
App Required⚠ Sophomore Only
Shirlee J. & Taylor Gandy Endowed
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
✓ Renews
🎓 Sophomore
✚
Stacking & Combining
Preference for students who missed main merit.
📄
How to Apply
Sophomores with need should apply via UTA Foundation/Mav ScholarShop by Mar 1. Preference given to first-gen students who did not receive major merit as freshmen.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Not available to previous major merit recipients.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Persistent, overlooked, and first-gen sophomores with need.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Native American Student Association Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Late Feb
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Awards vary. Typically not stackable with similar NASA awards.
📄
How to Apply
Active participants in UTA’s Native American Student Association (NASA); service/advocacy statement required. Apply by late February.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Can be awarded alongside other departmental or university awards within COA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students engaged in Native community service or advocacy through NASA.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
AP Institute Future Teachers Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Hidden-gem scholarship that lots of students miss because it's housed under the Honors College but open to everyone. Stacks with other UTA and outside aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Honors College or Mav ScholarShop. This award is unusual — it's open to both Honors and non-Honors juniors and seniors who have a clear plan to teach middle school or high school. Lead with your future-teacher narrative in your personal statement and résumé.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Open to Honors AND non-Honors students at the junior or senior level with a clear desire to teach middle school or high school. Awarded by the Honors College but not restricted to Honors enrollment.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Juniors and seniors with a clear, articulated commitment to teaching middle or high school — education majors, content majors with a teaching path, or future certification candidates. The Honors-or-not flexibility makes this a real find for non-Honors students.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army ROTC Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Oct–Mar (senior year)
✓ Renews
Full Tuition
rotc_contract_benefit
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Full tuition, some include fees/stipend; can be layered with UTA/federal aid up to COA.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via national Army ROTC boards between Oct–Mar of senior year. Must meet academic, fitness, medical, and service commitment criteria, join UTA Battalion.
🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Includes book stipend and monthly allowance if selected; highly competitive.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Top students committed to ROTC and intent to commission.
Full TuitionApp Requiredgeographicneed_basedpipeline
Texas Leadership Scholars (statewide program)
📅 Deadline: Dec–Jan
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
leadership_merit
✔ Stackable
⚠ State-funded Texas Leadership Scholars cohort for high-achieving, low-income Texas graduates that provides a full-tuition-plus-housing award at UT Arlington through a small, selective pipeline
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Full ride (tuition, fees, support, mentoring). May be combined with outside awards.
📄
How to Apply
Top TX seniors apply for nomination and complete state app Dec–Jan. Must show leadership, financial need, and community impact.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
UT Arlington is one of several Texas participant campuses.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: High-achieving, first-gen/low-income Texas leaders selected statewide.
* 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.
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
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Carolyn A. Barros Founding Dean Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Endowed Honors award; may be combined with other Honors and institutional scholarships within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1 — one application covers ten Honors awards at once. Upload a résumé, personal statement, and one letter of recommendation from a UTA staff or faculty member. Highlight your leadership and contributions to the Honors community in your materials.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Named endowed Honors scholarship awarded via the Conditional Application. Dollar amounts are not published and depend on annual endowment payout.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving Honors students with a clear leadership thread — Honors College Council, Programming Board, Advocates, peer mentoring, or other sustained involvement in the college's life.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Honors College Early Completion Scholarship
📅 Deadline: April 1
Non-Renewable
🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
One-time $500 stipend. Combinable with other UTA scholarships up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
If you'll finish all Honors requirements — including the Senior Project — before your final undergraduate semester, download the Honors Early Completion Scholarship application from the Honors College website, complete it, and submit by the posted April 1 deadline.
💡
Strategic Detail
$500 one-time award for students who complete the Senior Project and remaining Honors hours before their final undergraduate semester. Listed for students graduating in Spring 2027 or Fall 2027 who finish Honors work in Spring 2026 or Fall 2026.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students who finish all Honors requirements early and can document that completion before their senior year. If you're on track to wrap your Capstone and Honors hours ahead of schedule, this is basically free money for organizing your timeline well.
Automatic
Presidential Honors Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
$13,000 per year, up to $52,000 over four years. Can stack with other UTA and outside awards up to cost of attendance, and out-of-state students chosen often also receive the non-resident tuition waiver. Renewal requires 30 UTA hours per year and a 3.0 UTA GPA per the scholarship terms.
💡
Strategic Detail
$13,000 per year, renewable up to four years (max $52,000). SAT or ACT submission required. UTA no longer publishes numeric thresholds — selection is holistic across rank, GPA, scores, and rigor — but historically competitive profiles have hovered around top 5% rank, ~3.9 GPA, ACT 31, SAT 1400.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: UTA's highest-achieving incoming freshmen who are also admitted to the Honors College. UTA does not publish hard cutoffs, but in prior cycles winning profiles have clustered roughly around top 5% class rank, ~3.9 unweighted GPA, and ACT 31 / SAT 1400 — with rigorous coursework. Submitting test scores is required.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors College General Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
$1,000–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Typical awards run around $1,000 to $2,000 per year and may be stacked with other Honors and institutional aid within cost-of-attendance limits. Funding levels can vary year to year.
📄
How to Apply
Log into Mav ScholarShop with your NetID and complete the Honors College Conditional Application by March 1. The single Conditional Application considers you for ten different Honors awards at once — including this one. You'll upload a résumé, a personal statement, and one letter of recommendation from a UTA staff or faculty member.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Awarded via the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop. Same application considers you for nine other named Honors scholarships. Specific award amounts depend on annual funding.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Engaged Honors students with solid academics and visible involvement in the Honors community — leadership, research, service, mentoring. The Conditional App is a one-stop way to be considered for nine other named awards too, so it's worth investing real time in the résumé and personal statement.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Charles R. Knerr Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
May be combined with other Honors and donor awards within overall aid limits.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1. The one application covers ten Honors awards including this one. Upload a résumé, personal statement, and one letter of recommendation from a UTA staff or faculty member.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Merit-focused Honors award via the Conditional Application; specific dollar amounts vary by year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Consistently high-performing Honors students — strong UTA GPAs, steady progress toward the Honors degree, and meaningful engagement with the college.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Nancy C. Sommerman Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with other Honors and institutional aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1. The one application covers ten Honors awards. Upload a résumé, personal statement, and one letter of recommendation. Submitting the FAFSA helps if financial need is part of the consideration.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Need-and-merit hybrid Honors scholarship awarded via the Conditional Application. Amounts vary by year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students who pair documented financial need with strong academic performance and meaningful service or engagement.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Dana Dunn Scholarship for Service Learning
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with other Honors and institutional aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1, highlighting your service-learning and community engagement on your résumé and personal statement. The same application covers nine other Honors awards.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Service-learning-focused Honors award via the Conditional Application. Amounts vary by year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students with a sustained, visible service-learning record — community-based research, ongoing volunteer leadership, civic engagement work — alongside strong academics.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Stuckler Family Endowed Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Endowed Honors award. Stacks with other Honors and donor awards within institutional limits. Funding levels depend on annual endowment payout.
📄
How to Apply
This one requires a separate application in Mav ScholarShop (it's not in the Conditional Application bundle). Log in with your NetID, find the Stuckler Family Endowed Scholarship application, and submit by the March 1 Honors deadline.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Honors scholarship that requires its OWN application — not part of the Conditional Application. Find it in Mav ScholarShop.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Engaged Honors leaders with strong academics and a meaningful contribution to the Honors community or broader campus life.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Dean Robert F. McMahon Honors College Study Abroad Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 31
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with the International Education Fee Scholarship and other study abroad funding, subject to cost-of-attendance limits. Awards typically fall in the $500 to $2,000 range per trip.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through Mav ScholarShop and the Honors College by March 31 with your study abroad program details, an essay or statement of purpose, and any documentation of academic engagement. Coordinate with the Office of International Education on program approval.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Honors-only study abroad endowment with a March 31 deadline. Pair this with the IEFS for the best chance of meaningful funding.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students with a substantive study abroad plan — language immersion, research, or an academically meaningful program — and a clear statement of how the experience ties into their Honors trajectory.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Alan & Bonnie Petsche Award for Honors Study Abroad
📅 Deadline: March 31
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with IEFS and other UTA or external study abroad funding within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through Mav ScholarShop and the Honors College by March 31 with a project proposal, your study abroad program details, and faculty support. This award is specifically for project-based, independent study abroad experiences — be ready to articulate the academic project you'll pursue overseas.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Honors-only award targeted at independent, project-based study abroad. Listed on the OIE study abroad scholarships page as the Petsche Scholarship for Independent Study Abroad.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students with a real, faculty-supported project to pursue abroad — independent research, creative work, fieldwork — not a standard semester program.
App Required
Robert D. Riley Endowed Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 31
✓ Renews
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Endowed Honors award for incoming freshmen. Stacks with Presidential Honors, Presidential, Maverick Academic, and other UTA aid up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Incoming freshmen admitted to the Honors College apply in Mav ScholarShop by March 31. The Riley application is separate from the Conditional Application bundle for current students.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Reclassified from hidden_gem to honors based on the live Honors College listing as an Incoming Freshman Scholarship with a March 31 deadline. Apply via Mav ScholarShop.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming Honors freshmen with strong academics and a clear story about what they'll contribute to the Honors community.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Presidential Scholarship (Honors Internal)
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Awarded by the Honors College itself, separate from the FAO's incoming-freshman Presidential Honors package. Stacks with other Honors and institutional aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1. Upload a résumé, personal statement, and one letter of recommendation. This is the Honors-internal Presidential award — distinct from the FAO's Presidential Honors Scholarship given to incoming freshmen at admission.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Listed inside the Honors College Conditional Application as Honors Presidential Scholarship — distinct from the FAO's incoming-freshman Presidential Honors Scholarship. Award amounts not published; vary by year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Top Honors students with sustained academic excellence and a clear contribution to the Honors community — leadership, mentoring, research, or service.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Dan Dipert Nursing Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Honors major-specific endowed award. Stacks with other Honors, College of Nursing, and institutional aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1. Highlight your nursing trajectory in your personal statement and résumé. The one Conditional Application covers ten Honors awards.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Honors scholarship reserved for nursing students. Awarded via the Honors Conditional Application; amounts not published.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students in UTA's College of Nursing with strong academic records and a clear nursing career direction.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Luther Wayne Odom Scholarship for Political Science Students
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Major-restricted Honors endowed award. Stacks with other Honors and institutional aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1. Use your personal statement and résumé to highlight your political science interests and activities. The one application covers nine other Honors awards too.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Honors scholarship reserved for political science majors. Awarded via the Honors Conditional Application; amounts not published.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students majoring in political science with sustained academic engagement — think research, mock trial, debate, internships, or civic involvement.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Watters Scholarship for Higher Education — Engineering
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Honors major-restricted endowed award. Stacks with College of Engineering, Honors, and institutional aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1. Make the engineering thread clear in your personal statement and résumé — coursework, design projects, undergraduate research, internships. The same application covers nine other Honors awards.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Honors scholarship reserved for engineering majors. Awarded via the Honors Conditional Application; amounts not published.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students in UTA's College of Engineering with strong academics and tangible engineering involvement — research, design competitions, internships, or industry experience.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Watters Scholarship for Higher Education — General
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
General Honors endowed award. Stacks with other Honors and institutional aid within cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via the Honors College Conditional Application in Mav ScholarShop by March 1. Upload a résumé, personal statement, and one letter of recommendation. The one Conditional Application considers you for nine other Honors awards.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
General-track Honors endowed scholarship — not major-restricted. Awarded via the Honors Conditional Application.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Engaged Honors students with strong academics and meaningful contribution to the Honors community — any major welcome.
* 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: 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.
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- 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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