Applications are reviewed on an individual basis with consideration given to the applicant’s overall grade-point average (GPA) and standardized test scores. New freshmen and those transfer students with fewer than 24 transferable credit hours should have completed or be in the process of completing the following college preparatory curriculum in high school:

16 Units Total

  • English –  4 units
  • Mathematics – 4 units (Units must be equivalent to or higher level than Algebra I)
  • Social Studies – 3 units
  • Natural Sciences – 3 units
    • 1 unit general sciences and 2 units lab sciences (Choose two courses from biology, chemistry, and physics laboratory. Two years of principles of technology will meet one unit of natural sciences [physics]. Two years of applied biology/chemistry will meet one unit of natural sciences [biology].)
  • Others – 2 units
    • Oral Communication – 1/2 unit
    • Physical Education – 1/2 unit
    • Health and Safety – 1/2 unit
    • Fine Art – 1/2 unit 

Arkansas residents who have taken these course requirements and who have an overall high school GPA of 3.00 or better and an ACT score of 20 or an equivalent 930 SAT or 1020 Redesigned SAT score or better meet the minimum admission requirements. Out-of-state applicants must meet minimum admission requirements and may be required to meet higher standards, depending on demand. Students not meeting minimum admission requirements are still encouraged to apply and will be reviewed for possible admission by the Admissions and Appellate Board.

Accelerated Admission

Superior high school students who have completed a rigorous college preparatory curriculum may seek admission to the freshman class at the end of their junior year of high school. Applicants for accelerated admission must complete certain required subjects during three years of high school study, submit letters of recommendation, and submit an ACT or SAT score equivalent to at least the 90th percentile of the university’s previous entering class. Additional information and application materials may be obtained at the Office of Admissions, by calling 1-800-377-8632, or visiting admissions.uark.edu.