The Arkansas Service Memorial Scholarship Fund offers educational grant opportunities for those who've had a parent die while serving his state, local community or country. The Arkansas Community Foundation runs this scholarship program. Awards are based on financial need, academic achievement and leadership experience. The amount of scholarship funds awarded varies each year, as does the number of grants issued .
Applicants must write an essay about their personal goals and need for the scholarship. The application also must include a letter explaining the circumstance of the parent's death as well as a copy of the parent's death certificate. A copy of the student's birth certificate and academic transcript is also required. Current college students and graduating high school seniors may apply.
The American Legion Arkansas Oratorical Contest is open to high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. The student or a parent must be a member of an American Legion group in Arkansas. Scholarships are awarded to the top three students in a statewide speech competition. Topics vary each year. Judges evaluate contestants on diction, voice, delivery, originality, knowledge of the topic and skill in selecting examples to support the provided topic. The first place winner receives a $3,500 college scholarship, the second prize is $1,000 and third place is a $1,000 award. Funds can be used at any accredited post-secondary educational institution. The student or parent must contact the local American Legion post with which they are affiliated to enter the contest.
The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF) offers awards based partially on financial need. Applicants should be single parents with primary custody of at least one child, residents of Arkansas and be able to demonstrate financial need. Most successful applicants have not previously earned a bachelor's degree, as the primary awards are to allow single parents to study at a four-year college. But limited funds are available for eligible students pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching credential. No other graduate school programs can be covered by the scholarship.
Each county runs different ASPSF programs and determines the number and amount of awards offered each year, according to the program website. Students should visit the main ASPSF website to find out the appropriate contact for their county of residence.