Exclusive Scholarships for Arkansas Students to Apply for in 2025

Where else in the world can you stroll between steaming natural hot springs, sift through volcanic debris for diamonds, and enjoy sweeping views of the Ozark mountains? Only in Arkansas. Hot Springs National Park and the Crater of Diamonds State Park are just two of the unique treasures Arkansas' landscape has to offer.

This beautiful state attracts students alongside tourists—and for those looking to attend school here, Arkansas scholarships can help. As a well-trusted scholarship resource, we found scholarships sourced from the Arkansas Division of Higher Education and other reputable organizations to include in our list of the best financial aid for Arkansas students.

Keep reading for scholarships available to high school seniors up to graduate students. This guide on how to apply for scholarships, tips on winning, and more Arkansas opportunities can help you find resources to afford school in your dream state.

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Best Arkansas Scholarships

1. Need-Based Scholarships

All students should be able to afford college in their home state. These need-based scholarships are for students who can show that they aren't able to afford college on their own. Many Arkansas public institutions will also offer need-based financial aid, so if your dream is to go to school in Arkansas, make use of need-based financial aid and don't give up!

2. College Scholarships

These general undergraduate scholarships can help Arkansas students stay in Arkansas for university. Remember to also apply for any aid packages your college offers once you get accepted!

3. High School Scholarships

High school is not too early to start applying for scholarships. Arkansas residents should start saving up as early as possible by regularly checking their school office, Arkansas Department of Education, and online databases for any scholarships they can apply for. Eligible high school students will be able to apply for just as many scholarships as college students—just double-check the requirements.

Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship

1. AAC Scholarship

This is one of the leading scholarships for Arkansas students. It provides scholarships to Arkansas residents pursuing higher education regardless of their academic status, whether just graduating from high school, currently enrolled in college, or returning to higher education.

Funding amounts vary depending on how many years of school your program requires, but winners of the Arkansas Academic Challenge program will receive between $1,000 and $4,000 for each year of school (up to four years).

Scholarships by Major for Arkansas Students

1. Biology Scholarships

Biology is a cornerstone for many STEM disciplines, from occupational therapy to pharmaceuticals. Arkansas students interested in completing a general biology degree should check these scholarships out first and then search for opportunities related to their concentration within biology.

2. Art Scholarships

With all the natural beauty Arkansas has to offer, it's no surprise many Arkansas students are inspired to create visual works of art. Whether you're a painter or graphic designer, these scholarships are for you.

3. Engineering Scholarships

Gears and electricity make the world go round. STEM students interested in higher education can apply for these scholarships—there may also be more federal financial aid available for students in these fields, as engineering is a societal necessity.

4. Public Health Scholarships

There's plenty of financial assistance available to support essential workers, like those interested in healthcare. Without our nurses and hospital technicians, receiving quality care on time would be much harder.

5. Culinary Scholarships

Students looking into more occupational degrees or associate degree programs can get a taste of financial aid with these culinary scholarships. Cooking is an expressive art—don't let financial woes cramp your style.

Don't see your major here? Take a look at the full list of scholarships by major to maximize your scholarship earnings.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Arkansas

1. Finding Arkansas Scholarships

Research scholarship opportunities by exploring online databases, school financial aid offices, and community organizations. Make a list of scholarships for which you are eligible, paying close attention to deadlines and application requirements.

2. Prepare Documents and Stay Organized

Organize necessary documents, such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of achievements. Tailor your application materials to each scholarship, highlighting relevant experiences and aligning your personal statement or essay with the scholarship’s mission or criteria.

Starting early and staying organized can help you avoid last-minute stress and improve your chances of success. Write down the scholarship deadline for each opportunity and prioritize accordingly.

3. Write the Personal Statement

When writing scholarship essays or personal statements, emphasize your strengths, goals, and unique experiences. Be authentic and specific, providing concrete examples to demonstrate your achievements and aspirations. Proofread all application materials thoroughly to avoid errors that could detract from your professionalism.

Tips on Winning Arkansas Scholarships

1. Play to Your Strengths

Many different types of scholarships are available, each with its advantages. If you're a great writer, then applying for essay-based scholarships is a great idea that will allow you to highlight your strengths. If you're not the best at writing but excel in art or music, you should consider applying for scholarships that allow video or picture submissions rather than written work.

Apply for essay scholarships now!

2. Save Time With No-Essay Scholarships

Students enrolled in any level of education are typically busy, so no-essay scholarships are also good to consider since they're so easy to apply for. These will have more competition but less time-consuming. Overall, no-essay scholarships are great options when you're short on time.

It takes just a few minutes to apply for these no-essay scholarships!

3. Look for Specific Criteria

Regardless of the type of scholarship you're applying for, the easiest scholarships to win are those that are more narrow. Scholarships with more eligibility criteria will have fewer applicants, giving you a better chance of winning.

Some scholarships are only open to high school seniors, while others are open to students pursuing higher education. Some scholarships, like Arkansas scholarships, are location-based and may only be offered in regional high-demand areas. Other scholarships may limit applicants to students pursuing an approved program in a certain field of study.

Additional Resources for Arkansas Students

1. Arkansas Future Grant

Any student who has graduated from an Arkansas high school, home school, or GED program and has not yet earned an associate degree can apply. Students must enroll in a STEM program, a state high demand or regionally high-demand area of study. Students must complete the FAFSA. Like most Arkansas State grants, ArFuture is funded by the Arkansas scholarship lottery.

2. Arkansas Health Education Grant

This scholarship provides financial assistance to students seeking professional training in chiropractic medicine, dentistry, optometry, osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, and veterinary medicine to allow them to attend out-of-state institutions. Award amounts vary depending on your field of study, so be sure to check the website parameters.

3. Arkansas Concurrent Challenge

Qualified high school students may be eligible to enroll in concurrent courses and be covered by the new Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarship. The Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarship will award eligible high school students $125 per course for up to two concurrent credit courses per semester.

Read through our scholarship blog for more free guides on navigating higher education and student finances!