A-State Launches Trailblazer Scholarship for High-Achieving Incoming Freshmen

10/07/2025

JONESBORO - A new scholarship is enabling students to attend Arkansas State University tuition-free, eliminating financial barriers.

The institution has introduced the Trailblazer Scholarship, an award presented to gifted students planning to attend the university.

Starting in fall 2026, eligible students will receive a $10,000 annual scholarship, renewable for up to four years or eight semesters. Recipients must maintain a 3.5 GPA and enroll in at least 15 credit hours each fall and spring semester to remain eligible.

With college costs rising, Dr. Amanda Nickerson, vice chancellor for enrollment management, recognizes that earning a degree can be out of reach for many. She hopes the Trailblazer award will help students and families continue their education.

"This strengthens our commitment to attracting high-achieving students while reducing financial barriers, so they can pursue their highest academic goals at A-State," said Nickerson.

First-time freshmen who are U.S. citizens and entering A-State are eligible for the scholarship. To qualify, an admitted student must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and an ACT score of 28 or higher, or an SAT score between 1300 and 1320.

Incoming students who qualify for the scholarship are automatically screened for admission to the university's Honors College, expanding real-world opportunities both on campus and off as they make their mark as a member of the Pack.

"The Honors College is especially excited to welcome Trailblazer recipients to A-State. Our Honors LLC, study abroad program, and honors courses offer top-tier experiences that give our students a competitive edge in their chosen fields," said Dr. Carmen Lanos Williams, director of the Honors College.

Students interested in the Trailblazer do not need to fill out a separate scholarship application. They will automatically be considered based on their GPA and ACT/SAT super score at admission.

The university also allows students to stack their state, federal and private scholarships, including the Trailblazer, which allows them to maximize their aid to cover tuition and fees, as long as it does not exceed the cost of attendance.

Nickerson provides vital pointers to parents and school guidance counselors.

"Please encourage students to apply and complete admission early - priority recommendation is Nov. 1. The December 2025 ACT and SAT administration will be the last test date counted toward Trailblazer consideration. Posted deadlines are firm; therefore, students should allow for processing time, and therefore should not wait until the deadline of Feb. 1 to apply or submit documentation," she added.

Incoming freshmen who meet qualifications for the Trailblazer must apply and be accepted to A-State by Feb. 1, 2026. They must then accept admission in their My Den account by March 1, 2026, to receive the scholarship.

The university is committed to serving the state by removing obstacles that may hold one back from furthering their academic careers. The Trailblazer Scholarship joins a list of awards such as A-State Scholar, A-State Inspire, A-State Enrichment and others that help students become and graduate Red Wolves.

A-State's privately funded scholarship application portal is open for the 2026 - 27 academic calendar and will close on Feb. 2, 2026. The portal is available to current and incoming students.

To learn more about the Trailblazer or other A-State scholarships, please click here.

Students walking on campus