UAMS announces 40 new full-tuition scholarships for Fall 2026

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by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) ago 55 views 

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) announced Friday (Dec. 19) a new initiative to provide full tuition and fees for 40 exceptional students entering UAMS, including 15 for the College of Medicine, with the fall 2026 semester.

“The UAMS Chancellor’s Scholars Program reflects our university’s deep commitment to academic excellence, service, and the future of health care in Arkansas,” said Interim UAMS Chancellor Dr. C. Lowry Barnes. “This program embodies our belief that investing in talent — paired with a shared responsibility to serve — strengthens our institution and our state. I am confident that the students selected for this program will become leaders who advance health, education, and discovery in our state for generations to come.”

The scholars will include:

  • College of Medicine — 15 scholarships (Doctor of Medicine, four years)
  • College of Health Professions — five scholarships:
    • Audiology (AuD, four years) — one scholarship
    • Speech-Language Pathology (MS, two years) — two scholarships
    • Dietetics (MS, 15 months) — two scholarships
  • College of Nursing – 10 scholarships (Traditional BSN, two years — five scholarships; Accelerated BSN, 15 months – five scholarships)
  • College of Pharmacy — five scholarships (Doctor of Pharmacy, four years)
  • College of Public Health — five scholarships (Master of Public Health, two years)

Recipients will commit to living and working in Arkansas following completion of their academic program (and residency or fellowship, where applicable) for a period equal to the length of the scholarship award.

This mutual commitment ensures that the benefits of this program extend well beyond the individual scholar and contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of communities across Arkansas, UAMS said.

Applicants must be Arkansas residents and be admitted to an eligible UAMS academic program beginning in fall 2026. Students who completed an undergraduate degree outside Arkansas are eligible for the scholarships.

Chancellor’s Scholars will be selected based on academic merit, evaluated through a holistic review of the applicant’s academic record.

Selection will consider objective measures of academic performance, the rigor and consistency of prior coursework, and demonstrated commitment to scholarly excellence, as assessed by the admissions or scholarship selection committee within each college.

“The UAMS Chancellor Scholars Program is a significant investment in our students, who are the future of health care in our state,” said Dr. Stephanie Gardner, provost and chief strategy officer. “I want to thank Dr. Barnes for his leadership on this issue.”