Military Dependents Scholarship (MDS)
Tuition, fees, and room/board waiver at Arkansas public institutions for dependents of veterans rated 100% P&T or killed/MIA/POW.
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Apply directly through the official Arkansas agency.
About this benefit
Overview
Eligibility requires 100% P&T disability OR KIA/MIA/POW status. Verify with the Arkansas Department of Higher Education.
Eligibility
Spouse or dependent child of an Arkansas resident who was killed in action, declared MIA, declared POW, killed on ordnance delivery, OR a veteran rated 100% totally and permanently disabled (service-connected) by the VA. The service event must have occurred since January 1, 1960. Spouses ineligible if they remarry. Must apply for federal Chapter 35 DEA benefits first.
Covers
Waives in-state tuition, mandatory fees, and on-campus room and board at any Arkansas public college, university, or technical school. Limited to 8 semesters or until a bachelor's degree/certificate is earned.
Estimated value
$8,000-$20,000+/year depending on the institution.
How to apply
Through the ADHE Scholarship Application Management System.
Verified against official source
Last checked 2026-05-05 against sams.adhe.edu. Always confirm current rates and rules with the Arkansas state agency before applying.
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