The Arkansas Challenge Scholarship 2026/2027 is one of the state’s most valuable opportunities for Arkansas residents pursuing higher education. Also known as the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, this program helps eligible students cover tuition and fees at approved colleges and universities in Arkansas. Funded largely through the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery and administered by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE), the scholarship rewards academic achievement and supports students across different academic pathways.
What Is the Arkansas Challenge Scholarship?
The Arkansas Challenge Scholarship—officially called the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship—is a state-funded financial aid program designed to help Arkansas residents pay for college. It’s available for undergraduate students pursuing an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, nursing diploma, or qualified certificate program at approved Arkansas institutions.
Unlike private scholarships tied to essays or specific extracurriculars, the Challenge Scholarship is open to both traditional and non-traditional students who meet basic eligibility criteria and demonstrate academic readiness.
Eligibility Requirements for Arkansas Challenge Scholarship Program 2026/2027
To qualify for the Challenge Scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic year, applicants must meet several key requirements:
General Eligibility
Residency: Must be a resident of Arkansas (minimum duration requirements vary, typically 12 months).
Admission: Must be accepted into an approved program at an Arkansas higher education institution.
Level: Must be pursuing a diploma, associate, or bachelor’s degree program.
FAFSA: Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Credit Hours: Typically enrolled in a minimum number of credit hours (varies for traditional versus non-traditional students).
GPA: Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA for renewal eligibility.
Good Standing: Must not owe a refund on federal or state financial aid or be in default on federal loans.
Traditional Students
Traditional students are typically recent high school graduates:
Must have an ACT composite score or superscore of 19, or an equivalent score on another accepted test.
Must enroll full-time (typically 12–15 credit hours per semester).
Non-Traditional Students
Non-traditional applicants include adults returning to school or current college students who did not previously receive the scholarship:
May qualify with college coursework and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Or, if they have no college credit, they can qualify with an ACT score of 19.
Application Deadline for Arkansas Challenge Scholarship Program 2026/2027
The annual application deadline for the Arkansas Challenge Scholarship is July 1 every year. For the 2026/2027 academic cycle, students should submit their applications by July 1, 2026 through the state’s Scholarship Application Management System (SAMS).
Applying by this date ensures consideration for the scholarship for the upcoming academic year.
Click here to apply from the official website
Award Amounts & Structure
The scholarship award varies based on the student’s academic level and institution type. Typical award amounts for students attending a four-year institution include:
| Year in College | Annual Award |
|---|---|
| Freshman | $2,000 ($1,000/semester) |
| Sophomore | $4,000 ($2,000/semester) |
| Junior | $4,000 ($2,000/semester) |
| Senior | $5,000 ($2,500/semester) |
For students at two-year institutions, awards are similarly tiered but adjusted.
Academic Challenge PLUS
In addition to base awards, students may qualify for extra funding based on their Student Aid Index (SAI) from the FAFSA. Depending on financial need, students may receive additional funds each semester on top of the base award.
Renewal Requirements
The scholarship can be renewed each year if recipients:
Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.
Earn sufficient credit hours (usually 27 in the first year and 30 each subsequent year).
Continue enrollment in programs that lead to eligible degrees or certificates.
These standards help ensure recipients stay on track academically while benefiting from continued financial support.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Arkansas Challenge Scholarship offers a range of advantages:
Reduces college cost: Helps cover tuition and mandatory fees.
Encourages academic excellence: Incentivizes maintaining strong GPA and course load.
Supports diverse students: Open to traditional, non-traditional, and returning students.
Renewable: Available throughout the degree program, up to four years.
This makes the Challenge Scholarship a powerful tool for students seeking financial stability and academic success during college.
How to Apply for Arkansas Challenge Scholarship Program 2026/2027
Create a SAMS Account: Visit the Arkansas Division of Higher Education’s Scholarship Application Management System (SAMS).
Complete the FAFSA: Submit your FAFSA early; it’s required for eligibility.
Submit Application: Apply for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship by July 1, 2026.
Monitor Status: Check your SAMS account for updates and award notifications.
See also:
- Australian Scholarships Group 2026/2027:Full Application Guide: Apply now
- BigFuture Scholarships Program 2026/2027:Complete Guide:Apply now
- BYU Scholarships Program 2026/2027:Complete Guide:Apply now.
- NHS Scholarship Program 2026/2027:Full Guide and Application:Apply now
Conclusion Thoughts
The Arkansas Challenge Scholarship 2026/2027 is a cornerstone financial aid program that opens doors to higher education for students across Arkansas. With significant award amounts, flexible eligibility for many learners, and support tied to academic progress, it remains a vital resource for students preparing for college.
If you’re planning to attend college in Arkansas in the 2026–27 academic year, be sure to apply by July 1, 2026, complete your FAFSA early, and meet renewal requirements to maximize the benefits of this scholarship.
