Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship)
In-state tuition, mandatory fees, and housing at eligible Arkansas public or private institutions for dependents/spouses of qualifying military members and first responders.
State BenefitArkansasEducation & Training
Verified May 12, 2026 against uca.edu
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Education & Training — Arkansas
- Who it's for
- Spouses, Survivors, Dependents
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Estimated value
- $8,000-$20,000+/year
- Where it applies
- Arkansas
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship)?
Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship) is a Arkansas education & training benefit for spouses, survivors, dependents. In-state tuition, mandatory fees, and housing at eligible Arkansas public or private institutions for dependents/spouses of qualifying military members and first responders. The listed value is $8,000-$20,000+/year.
Who qualifies
- Spouses
- Survivors
- Dependents
- Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
- Arkansas residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Dependents and spouses of Arkansas military members who were killed or missing in action, prisoners of war, recipients of the Medal of Honor or Purple Heart, or who are permanently and totally disabled through military service. Also covers family members of deceased or disabled first responders (law enforcement, firefighters, foresters, correctional officers, and certain state employees). Applicants need one year of Arkansas residency prior to applying and U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. For students receiving federal Chapter 35 (DEA) benefits, the Heroes program covers any remaining balance after DEA deductions.
What Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship) covers
Covers
In-state tuition, mandatory fees, and on-campus housing at eligible Arkansas public or private institutions. Books, parking permits, and dorm damages are excluded. Limited to 8 semesters or until a degree is earned.
Requirements
Maintain 2.0+ GPA and complete at least 24 semester hours annually.
Estimated value
$8,000-$20,000+/year depending on the institution.
How to apply for Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship)
Application deadline
July 1.
How to apply
Through ADHE; contact Dana Smith at 501-371-1274 or dana.smith@adhe.edu.
Verified information & sources
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
- Official source
- uca.edu
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
How VetUnlock verifies benefitsFrequently asked questions about Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship)
Who qualifies for Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship)?
Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship) is for Spouses, Survivors, Dependents; Through veteran sponsor (any rating); arkansas residency. See the eligibility details on this page and confirm with the official source before applying.
How much is Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship) worth?
The listed value is $8,000-$20,000+/year. Amounts can change — confirm the current figure at the official source linked on this page.
How do I apply for Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship)?
Apply through the official source linked on this page. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Where can I verify Arkansas Heroes Scholarship (formerly Military Dependents Scholarship)?
Benefit rules and dollar amounts change, so always confirm current details at the official source linked on this page. A free, accredited county or state Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can also verify your eligibility and help you apply.