The following are some of the student aid programs offered by the federal government and require a FAFSA to be completed:

• Federal Pell Grant (Pell)
• Federally funded to students with exceptional need
• Award amounts may vary up to a maximum of $5920 (with an EFC of 0) for the 17-18 academic year
• Must be an undergraduate student without a previous bachelor’s degree
• Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Have a complete financial aid file
• May be eligible if attending less than half-time (i.e. 5 hours or less)
• Eligibility is limited to 12 full time semesters

• Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Funds are limited and not available to reach all students with a need
• Award ranges from $100 – $1000 per academic year
• Must be an undergraduate student without a previous bachelor’s degree
• Priority is given to students also receiving the Pell Grant
• Federal Work-Study Program (FWS)
• Work Study is awarded to students with financial need
• Funds are limited and not available to reach all students with a need
• Access more information on FWS
• William D. Ford Federal Direct Loans (Subsidized, Unsubsidized, and Plus*)
• Subsidized – this loan is awarded based on a student’s need. The interest is paid by the government while the student is enrolled in school
• Unsubsidized – this loan is made to students regardless of income
• Loan amounts for subsidized and unsubsidized loans are based on a student’s grade level
• Plus for Parents – a parent may apply for this loan; the annual loan limit is equal to the cost of attending (COA) less any financial assistance the student is receiving
• PLUS for Graduate Students – A grad student may apply and have a credit check to determine eligibility

*Plus loans include Parent and Graduate

For more information, contact the Office of Student Financial Services, or visit the federal financial aid website.

The state of Arkansas makes financial aid awards to eligible Arkansas residents through the Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE). ADHE administers financial aid programs such as the Arkansas Academic Challenge scholarship and Higher Education Opportunities Grant – GO Grant! Visit www.adhe.edufor information on additional programs and for application guidelines and deadline dates.

Institutional and Private Scholarships

The University offers various scholarships based on specific academic standards, specific talents, interests and other specific criteria. The Office of Recruitment is the point of contact for new students inquiring about scholarships. Once a student enrolls at the university, scholarship opportunities may be available in the department of the student’s area of study.  Financial aid staff must be notified of any private scholarships a student is expected to receive so that it can be considered in the total financial aid package. Click here to view a list of academic scholarships

Most institutional scholarships require full time enrollment and pay for specified charges such as tuition. These scholarships are not refundable to the student if the full award is not used.

Awards received from public funds, such as UAPB scholarships and other Arkansas state financial aid programs, are subject to the Arkansas State Stacking Policy. The policy disallows total financial aid awarded, including awards and resources from outside organizations, to exceed the budget amount referenced in the award letter. Pell grants are excluded from this policy.

Federal Work Study Program
What is Federal Work-Study? Why is it important?

The Federal Work Study Program provides students with various opportunities for employability in a professional environment while attending college. Participation in the Federal Work-Study program will allow the student to lessen the financial burden of expenses that may mount during the student’s college career. Also, by becoming a student employee, they will gain many transferable skills which will prove beneficial in the world’s workforce as they embark upon future careers after graduation.

How do students get hired?

Students, who are awarded work study funds, must first interview with employing departments and complete the hiring process before an assignment is confirmed. After receiving confirmation of employment, the student must accept their Federal Work-Study Award (via Golden Gateway), provide documents that establish their identity (i.e. Driver’s License, I.D., Passport, SS Card, etc.) and complete the necessary paperwork for Human Resources and the Office of Student Financial Services.

Community Service

The Federal Work-Study Program also provides students with outreach experience in designated community service positions. At least seven-percent of work-study funding is allocated for positions that promote community service employment. Examples of our employment opportunities include after-school tutors (reading and math), library and office assistants, and mentors.

Click to learn more about Work-Study positions at UAPB.