Out-of-State Tuition Scholarship
University of Central Arkansas
Amount
$7,500 USD
Auto applied
Yes
Eligible nationalities
All nationalities
Eligible program levels
All program levels
International Student Merit Scholarship
University of Central Arkansas
Overview
The University of Central Arkansas offers the International Student Merit Scholarship to outstanding first-time degree-seeking international undergraduate students. This scholarship provides significant financial support of up to $4,000 per semester for a maximum of 8 consecutive semesters or until the completion of a bachelor’s degree, whichever occurs first. It is designed to reward academic excellence and support international students pursuing their studies on campus.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a new international student applying for admission to a UCA undergraduate program for the Fall semester only (Spring applicants are not eligible).
- University admission application and all required documents must be submitted by January 31.
- Scholarship application must also be submitted by January 31.
- Must meet minimum English proficiency requirements.
- Academic qualifications (one of the following):
- Minimum 3.25 GPA as calculated by UCA
- SAT score of 1160 (super score) with UCA code 6012 (test taken within last 5 years)
- ACT score of 24 with UCA code 0118 (test taken within last 5 years)
- Must not have previously enrolled at UCA or be currently enrolled.
- Not eligible if applying for Intensive English Program, Visiting student status, graduate programs, or if receiving another UCA departmental scholarship.
- Must enroll in a minimum of 12 undergraduate credit hours per semester.
- On-campus instruction is required; online courses from home country are not eligible.
Scholarship Value and Duration
- Award amount: $4,000 per semester for up to 8 consecutive semesters or until bachelor’s degree completion.
- Total maximum award: $32,000.
- Scholarship applies only to Fall and Spring semesters; Summer terms and intersessions are excluded.
- Award amounts may vary based on enrollment, funding availability, and Scholarship Committee review.
Renewal Requirements
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative UCA undergraduate GPA each semester.
- Complete at least 12 undergraduate credit hours each semester (exceptions possible in final semester with approval).
- Maintain good immigration status and academic standing as per UCA policies.
- Continue active participation in scholarship-related cultural events or projects coordinated by the Center for Global Learning & Engagement (CGLE).
Application Process
- Submit the university admission application with all required documents by January 31.
- Complete the scholarship application by January 31, including:
- A 250-word essay in English describing your career goals related to studying at UCA (distinct from admission essay).
- One signed letter of recommendation from a teacher familiar with your academic performance.
- A resume (maximum 2 pages) highlighting extracurricular activities and community service.
Additional Important Notes
- Recipients must assist CGLE in coordinating cultural events or participate in one project per semester during the award period.
- Students changing to Permanent Resident or other US citizenship status will no longer be eligible for the scholarship.
- Students may not receive more than one scholarship from CGLE simultaneously.
- All awards are subject to compliance review and university policies.
This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for international students demonstrating academic excellence to receive substantial funding while engaging in a vibrant campus community at the University of Central Arkansas. Prospective applicants should prepare their materials carefully and apply by the January 31 deadline to be considered.
Eligible nationalities
All nationalities