Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship
Up to $10,000 yearly, subject to allowable costs, ACT/SAT score, GPA, testing calendar, and funding.
About Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship
GDS recognizes exceptional high-school achievement and supports up to four years of postsecondary study at Arkansas-approved institutions.
ADHE lists a minimum ACT composite or superscore of 32, or SAT of 1410, plus at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA. National Merit Finalists and National Achievement Scholars may qualify through an alternate GPA route but still need the test threshold. The last qualifying tests for a cohort must be taken by the end of February; verify the exact deadline and approved residency/school rules for that year.
Create a SAMS account during senior year, complete the GDS application, and verify that your transcript and test scores are reported. If your score increases after applying, ADHE says to submit a new scholarship application so the updated score reaches the file before the annual deadline. Ask your counselor to confirm dates, documentation, and approved institutions.
Who it serves and what it can cover: Up to $10,000 yearly, subject to allowable costs, ACT/SAT score, GPA, testing calendar, and funding.
How to apply or get help: Create a SAMS account during senior year, complete the GDS application, and verify that your transcript and test scores are reported. If your score increases after applying, ADHE says to submit a new scholarship application so the updated score reaches the file before the annual deadline. Ask your counselor to confirm dates, documentation, and approved institutions. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.
Public student financial-aid program