Access to Statewide Private Scholarships for Immigrant Students in Arkansas

1. What state-level organizations offer private scholarship opportunities for immigrants residing in Arkansas?


1. The Arkansas Immigrant Scholarship Program (AISP) – This program provides scholarships to immigrant students who have resided in Arkansas for at least two years and are pursuing higher education at a public or private college or university in the state.

2. The Latino American Fair Education Foundation (LAFE) – This organization offers scholarships to Arkansas residents of Hispanic/Latino descent who are pursuing higher education at a college or university in Arkansas.

3. El Zócalo Immigrant Resource Center – This nonprofit organization provides scholarship opportunities to immigrants and refugees residing in Northwest Arkansas.

4. The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Councils in Arkansas- Some local chapters of LULAC offer scholarships to qualified immigrant students living in their communities.

5. The Cisneros Center for New Americans – This organization, based in Little Rock, offers scholarship opportunities to immigrant students from Central America who are residents of Arkansas.

6. The Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging’s Haydon Family Fund for International Students and Scholars – This program provides financial support to international students studying at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, including immigrants with a valid student visa.

7. Multi-Cultural Bridge Builders Inc.- This non-profit offers scholarships to eligible African-American, Hispanic, Pacific Islander and other minority students including immigrants from Benton County, Washington County and Fayetteville area high schools; Simmons Neighborhood Grants; University/College-Specific Scholarships; and Presidential Scholarship nominee Microsoft-I-Net Scholarship finalist(s).

8. Churches/Community Organizations- some community centers and churches may also offer private scholarship opportunities for immigrants residing in their local areas. It is recommended to inquire with these organizations directly for more information about possible scholarship programs available.

Note: Some scholarships may have specific requirements or preferences such as citizenship status, country of origin, field of study etc., it is advised to review each scholarship’s eligibility criteria carefully before applying.

2. Are there any statewide private scholarships available specifically for undocumented students in Arkansas?


Yes, there are a few statewide private scholarships specifically for undocumented students in Arkansas. These include:

1. Arkansas Commitment: This scholarship program is open to high-achieving undocumented students who have completed at least three full years of high school in Arkansas and plan to attend a four-year college or university in the state. The scholarship provides up to $20,000 per year for up to four years.

2. The Fundación Arkansas: This scholarship is open to undocumented Hispanic/Latino students who are enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited college or university in Arkansas. The amount of the scholarship varies but can cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, and other educational expenses.

3. Myrtle Virginia Carmack Scholarship: This scholarship program is open to undocumented and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students who are residents of northwest Arkansas and plan to attend the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville or Northwest Arkansas Community College. The amount of the scholarship ranges from $500-$5,000 per year.

4. Jerry Davis Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undocumented high school seniors or graduates from the Little Rock School district who plan to attend a two- or four-year college/university. The scholarship provides up to $3,000 per year.

For more information on these scholarships and their application processes, you can visit their respective websites or reach out to their organizations directly. Other resources for finding scholarships for undocumented students include the MALDEF Scholarship Resource Guide and UndocuBlack’s Scholarships Database.

3. How can immigrant students in Arkansas access information about privately funded scholarships?


1. School Counselors and Teachers: Immigrant students can speak to their school counselors or teachers about privately funded scholarships. These professionals are knowledgeable about scholarship opportunities and can provide guidance on the application process.

2. Community Organizations: Nonprofit organizations and community groups often have information about privately funded scholarships for immigrant students. These organizations may also offer assistance with the application process.

3. Internet Research: Immigrant students can conduct research online to find information about privately funded scholarships in Arkansas. They can use search engines to find scholarship databases, websites of private foundations, and other resources that list scholarship opportunities specifically for immigrant students.

4. Private Scholarship Databases: There are several private scholarship databases that cater specifically to immigrant students in Arkansas. These include sites like College Greenlight, Fastweb, and Scholarships.com.

5. Employer-sponsored Programs: Some companies and organizations in Arkansas offer scholarships or education assistance programs for employees or their children who are immigrants or first-generation college students.

6. State Agencies: The Arkansas Department of Education has a list of available state-funded grants and scholarships for immigrant students on their website. Students can reach out to these agencies for more information on eligibility requirements and the application process.

7. Financial Aid Office at Colleges/Universities: Immigrant students can talk to the financial aid office at colleges and universities they plan to attend for information on privately funded scholarships available for international or immigrant students.

8. Social Media: Immigrant student groups on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram may share information about privately funded scholarships specifically targeted towards immigrants in Arkansas.

9. Local Libraries: Public libraries often have resources on scholarship opportunities for students, including those that are privately funded.

10. Networking Opportunities: Attending community events and networking with professionals can also lead to discovering potential scholarship opportunities for immigrants in Arkansas.

4. Which private foundations or companies in Arkansas offer scholarships for immigrant students?


Some private foundations and companies in Arkansas that offer scholarships for immigrant students include:

1) The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund – offers scholarships to single parent immigrants who are pursuing post-secondary education in Arkansas.

2) The Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation – offers various scholarships and grants for immigrant students in Arkansas, including the Summer Mentorship Program which provides internships and mentoring opportunities to college-bound immigrant students.

3) Tysons Corner Chamber of Commerce Scholarships – offers scholarships to immigrant high school seniors who are planning to attend college or vocational school in Arkansas.

4) The Arkansas Community Foundation – administers multiple scholarship funds for immigrant students, such as the Nelson Mandela Scholarship Fund for African immigrants and the Hispanic Women’s Foundation Scholarship for Hispanic women.

5) The Walmart Associate Scholarship Program – provides financial assistance to international Walmart associates and their dependents who are enrolled in a degree-seeking program at an accredited college or university in Arkansas.

6) Tyson Foods Foundation Scholarships – offers scholarships to children of Tyson employees, including those who may be first-generation or have immigrant backgrounds.

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5. Are there any restrictions for immigrant students when applying for statewide private scholarships in Arkansas?


There are no specific restrictions for immigrant students when applying for statewide private scholarships in Arkansas. However, applicants must meet all eligibility criteria set by the scholarship provider, which may include factors such as residency status and academic achievement. It is always best to carefully review the requirements for each scholarship before applying.

6. What documents are typically required to apply for state-based private scholarships for immigrant students in Arkansas?

Some common documents that may be required to apply for state-based private scholarships for immigrant students in Arkansas include:

1) Completed scholarship application
2) Proof of immigrant status, such as a copy of a visa or Green Card
3) High school transcripts or GED certificate
4) Letter of acceptance or enrollment from a college, university, or vocational/trade school
5) Personal essay or statement of purpose
6) Letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or community leaders
7) Financial aid information, including any FAFSA forms or other documentation of financial need
8) Proof of residence in Arkansas (such as a utility bill)
9) Evidence of involvement in community service or extracurricular activities
10) Any other specific requirements as outlined by the individual scholarship program.

7. Are there any deadlines that immigrant students should be aware of when applying for private scholarships at the state level in Arkansas?


The deadlines for private scholarships at the state level in Arkansas may vary depending on the specific scholarship. It is important for immigrant students to research and carefully review the application requirements and deadlines for each scholarship they are interested in. Some scholarships may have early deadlines, while others may have rolling admissions. It is recommended to start researching and applying for scholarships as early as possible. Additionally, some scholarships may require applicants to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, so it is important for immigrant students to check the eligibility requirements before applying.

8. Can DACA recipients and other non-citizens qualify for statewide private scholarships in Arkansas?


Yes, DACA recipients and other non-citizens may be eligible for statewide private scholarships in Arkansas as long as they meet any specific eligibility criteria set by the scholarship provider. Some scholarships may have requirements based on citizenship or immigration status, but others may not have any specific restrictions. It is important for applicants to carefully review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship they are interested in to determine if they are eligible to apply.

9. Are there any cultural or ethnic-specific privately funded scholarships available to immigrant students in Arkansas?


Yes, there are several privately funded scholarships available to immigrant students in Arkansas that either specifically target certain cultural or ethnic groups or are open to all minority students, including immigrants. These include:

1. Hispanic Women’s Organization of Arkansas Scholarship: This scholarship is available to Hispanic women who have immigrated to the United States and are pursuing higher education in Arkansas.

2. Arkadelphia-New-Hope-Central Hempstead County Black Chamber of Commerce Scholarship: This scholarship is open to African American students, including immigrant students, who reside in Hempstead County and are pursuing a degree at an Arkansas college or university.

3. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Minority Scholarship: This scholarship is available to minority students, including immigrants, who are enrolled in an accredited college or university in Arkansas and reside within the boundaries of the Rogers/Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce.

4. Philippine Nurses Association of America-AR Chapter Nursing Education Scholarship: This scholarship is open to Filipino-American nursing students who are currently enrolled in a nursing program at an accredited nursing school in Arkansas.

5. International Student & Scholars Services (ISSS) International Student Study Abroad Award: This award is open to non-US citizens who are studying at the University of Arkansas and wish to participate in a study abroad program.

Apart from these specific scholarships, there may also be other privately funded scholarships available to immigrant students based on their cultural or ethnic background. Students can search for such opportunities through online databases or by contacting their school’s financial aid office.

10. What is the average award amount of statewide private scholarships for immigrant students in Arkansas?


There is no specific data on the average award amount of statewide private scholarships for immigrant students in Arkansas. It may vary depending on the criteria and availability of funds for each scholarship. Students can contact individual scholarship providers for more information about award amounts.

11. Are there any state-wide grants or funding options available to supplement private scholarship awards for immigrant students in Arkansas?

Yes, the Arkansas Access and Justice Partnership offers scholarship funding for immigrant students through their Legal Education Assistance Program. Additionally, the Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to low-income single-parent students, including those who may be immigrants. There may also be grants and scholarships available at specific universities or through local community organizations. Immigrant students should research and inquire about any potential funding opportunities with their college or university of choice.

12. How competitive is the application process for statewide private scholarships for immigrant students in Arkansas?


The competitiveness of statewide private scholarships for immigrant students in Arkansas varies depending on the specific scholarship and the number of applicants. Some scholarships may receive a small number of applicants, while others may be highly competitive with a larger pool of qualified candidates. Additionally, eligibility requirements and application criteria can also impact the competitiveness of the selection process. It is important for students to carefully review the specific requirements and deadlines for each scholarship they are interested in and tailor their application accordingly to increase their chances of success.

13. Do some counties or regions within Arkansas offer additional private scholarship opportunities for immigrant students?

Yes, some counties or regions within Arkansas may offer additional private scholarship opportunities for immigrant students. These scholarships may be offered by local organizations, community foundations, or private companies and may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes. It is recommended to research and reach out to these local sources for more information on potential scholarship opportunities in your area.

14. Is there a specific organization or office that oversees state-level private scholarships for immigrant students in Arkansas?

The Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) is responsible for administering state-funded financial aid programs for both resident and non-resident students in Arkansas. They also provide information and resources on private scholarship opportunities for students, including those available to immigrant students. It is recommended that immigrant students contact their school’s financial aid office or the ADHE directly for more information about available scholarships.

15. What efforts are being made at the state level to increase access to privately funded scholarships for immigrant students?


There are several efforts being made at the state level to increase access to privately funded scholarships for immigrant students. These efforts include:

1. Creating scholarship programs specifically for immigrant students: Several states have created scholarship programs that are exclusively available for immigrant students, regardless of their legal status. For example, California has the California Dream Act, which provides financial aid to undocumented students in the state.

2. Passing state laws that allow undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition: Some states have passed laws that allow undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This makes higher education more affordable and increases access to privately funded scholarships.

3. Partnering with private organizations and foundations: Many states have partnerships with private organizations and foundations that offer scholarships specifically for immigrant students. These partnerships can help increase the availability of private funding for these students.

4. Advocating for federal immigration reform: State governments can also advocate for federal immigration reform that includes providing access to higher education and financial aid for undocumented students. This could ultimately lead to increased availability of privately funded scholarships at the national level.

5. Providing information on scholarship opportunities: State governments can also take steps to provide information about scholarship opportunities available to immigrant students, such as creating databases or hosting workshops to help them navigate the application process.

6. Establishing task forces or commissions on immigrant education: Some states have established task forces or commissions focused on addressing educational barriers faced by immigrant communities, including increasing access to scholarship opportunities.

Overall, these efforts help promote equal educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their immigration status, and provide much-needed support for immigrant students seeking financial assistance for their education.

16. Do any of the state’s universities or colleges offer their own privately funded scholarships specifically designated for immigrant students living in Arkansas?


It is unclear if any of the state’s universities or colleges offer privately funded scholarships specifically for immigrant students. It is recommended to contact individual schools directly to inquire about available scholarship opportunities.

17.Can high school counselors and teachers play a role in helping their immigrant student population apply and secure private scholarships at the state level?


Yes, high school counselors and teachers can play an important role in helping their immigrant student population apply for and secure private scholarships at the state level. Some ways they can support these students include:

1. Providing information: Counselors and teachers should be knowledgeable about the various private scholarships available at the state level that are specifically open to immigrant students. This information could be displayed on the school’s website or shared with students during college fairs or classroom presentations.

2. Assisting with applications: Many scholarship applications can be overwhelming and confusing, especially for immigrant students who may not be familiar with the process. Counselors and teachers can help by guiding them through the application process, offering tips on how to write strong essays, and providing feedback on their materials before they submit them.

3. Recommending students: As educators, counselors and teachers know their students well and can provide valuable recommendations for scholarship applications. They can highlight a student’s achievements, leadership skills, and potential to succeed in college.

4. Encouraging participation in extracurricular activities: Many scholarships look for well-rounded applicants who have been actively involved in extracurricular activities. Counselors and teachers can encourage immigrant students to participate in clubs, sports teams, or volunteer work that aligns with their interests and strengths.

5. Connecting students with resources: Some private scholarships may require additional documents such as proof of immigration status or financial need. High school counselors and teachers may be able to connect students with resources such as legal clinics or financial aid advisors who can assist with gathering these materials.

Overall, high school counselors and teachers play a crucial role in supporting their immigrant student population throughout the scholarship application process. By providing guidance, resources, and personalized support, they can help increase the chances of these students securing much-needed funding for college.

18.What steps can parents of undocumented or DACA-eligible students take to help their children find and secure privately funded scholarships in Arkansas?


1. Research available scholarships: Start by researching the various privately funded scholarships that are available in Arkansas. This can include national scholarship programs as well as local organizations or businesses that offer scholarships to students.

2. Connect with community organizations: Parents can connect with community organizations that work with undocumented or DACA-eligible students, such as immigrant rights groups or Latino/Hispanic advocacy groups. These organizations often have information on available scholarships and may be able to provide guidance on the application process.

3. Utilize online resources: There are many online databases and search engines specifically designed for finding scholarships for undocumented or DACA-eligible students. Some of these resources include the FinAid website (https://www.finaid.org/) and the Scholarships.com website (https://www.scholarships.com/).

4. Network within the community: Encourage your child to network within their community to learn about scholarship opportunities from other students, teachers, or mentors who may have personal connections.

5. Contact colleges and universities: Reach out to colleges and universities in Arkansas to inquire about any available privately funded scholarships for undocumented or DACA-eligible students. Many schools have specific funds allocated for these students.

6. Attend college fairs and workshops: Attend college fairs and workshops specifically geared towards undocumented or DACA-eligible students where there may be information on privately funded scholarships.

7. Look for niche scholarships: There are many niche scholarships available for specific demographics, fields of study, interests, etc. Parents should encourage their children to apply for these types of scholarships as they often have less competition.

8. Check with employers: Some companies offer scholarship programs for employees’ children or extended family members, so it is worth checking with your employer to see if this is an option.

9. Consider crowdfunding platforms: Platforms like GoFundMe can be used to raise money for educational expenses, including tuition and textbooks.

10.Completed FAFSA forms: DACA-eligible students can still fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for consideration for federal and state financial aid, including scholarships.

11. Attend financial aid workshops: Many colleges and organizations offer workshops on how to apply for financial aid and scholarships. Parents should attend these workshops with their child to learn more about the process and ask any questions they may have.

12. Reach out to guidance counselors: High school counselors can be a valuable resource in finding scholarship opportunities for their students. They may also have information on local organizations or businesses that offer scholarships.

13. Encourage volunteer work: Many scholarships require applicants to demonstrate community involvement or volunteer work. Encourage your child to participate in community service activities that align with their interests or future career goals.

14. Speak with scholarship providers: If your child finds a scholarship they are interested in applying for, they can reach out to the provider directly to inquire about eligibility requirements and any accommodations that may be available for undocumented or DACA-eligible students.

15. Apply early: Privately funded scholarships often have early application deadlines, so it is important to encourage your child to start searching and applying as soon as possible.

16. Prepare strong essays and recommendations: Many scholarship applications require essays or letters of recommendation. Make sure your child spends time crafting thoughtful, well-written essays and reaching out to potential recommenders in advance.

17. Be cautious of scams: Unfortunately, there are scams that target undocumented or DACA-eligible students looking for scholarships. Remind your child to never give out personal information or pay money upfront when applying for scholarships.

18. Keep track of deadlines: It is easy to get overwhelmed with the number of scholarship opportunities available, so make sure you keep track of all relevant deadlines (application due dates, recommendation letter deadlines, etc.).

19. Consider cultural organizations: Depending on their ethnicity or background, students can look into cultural organizations or minority advocacy groups that may offer scholarships specifically for students from their community.

20. Utilize social media: Encourage your child to follow scholarship organizations and pages on social media platforms, as they often post updates and deadlines for available scholarships. They can also join scholarship-related groups on platforms like Facebook to stay informed about opportunities.

19. Are there any private scholarship opportunities available for adult immigrant students residing in Arkansas who wish to pursue higher education?


Yes, there are several private scholarship opportunities available for adult immigrant students residing in Arkansas who wish to pursue higher education. Some examples include:

1. The Immigrant Scholarship Program: This program provides financial assistance to immigrant students with exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential. Applicants must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited higher education institution in Arkansas.

2. AR Muslim Women Education Grant: This grant is specifically for female Muslim students who are residents of Arkansas and are enrolled in a post-secondary education program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic achievement.

3. The Dr. Jorge Vega Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship is open to undocumented or DACA-eligible students in Arkansas pursuing higher education. Preference is given to applicants with a history of community service and leadership.

4. Central Arkanasys Community Foundation Scholarships: The foundation offers a variety of scholarships specifically for immigrant students, including the Jesse Mason Ladd Scholarship for Immigrant Students and the Turkish American Youth Leadership Award.

It is recommended that you also check with local organizations, community foundations, and religious institutions that may offer scholarships specifically tailored to immigrants in your area.

20. How can immigrant students in Arkansas stay updated on new or upcoming statewide private scholarship opportunities that may become available?


1. Subscribe to newsletters and email alerts from the Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) and other relevant organizations, such as the Office for New Americans or local immigrant advocacy groups.

2. Follow social media accounts of ADHE, colleges and universities in the state, and other scholarship providers to stay informed about new opportunities.

3. Check the websites of ADHE and state universities for information on available scholarships and deadlines.

4. Attend college fairs, workshops, and events specifically geared towards supporting immigrant students. These events may provide information on available scholarships.

5. Talk to school counselors or advisors who may have information on specific scholarships for immigrant students.

6. Reach out to local community organizations that support immigrant communities, as they may have information on available scholarships or connections to scholarship providers.

7. Network with other immigrant students at your school or in your community who may have knowledge or experience with scholarship opportunities.

8. Consider joining an online community or forum for immigrants in Arkansas, where members can share resources and information about available scholarships.

9. Utilize online scholarship search engines or databases specifically for international or immigrant students, such as Scholarships.com or International Scholarships.

10. Keep an eye out for advertisements in local newspapers or ethnic publications for scholarship opportunities targeted towards immigrant students in Arkansas.