The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF) is accepting scholarship applications for the spring 2026 semester.
Single mothers and fathers can apply at aspsf.org/scholarships. The deadline is Feb. 1. Recipients must be pursuing an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or professional certificate, according to a news release.
In 2025, ASPSF awarded 24 scholarships totaling $33,800 to single parents in Jefferson County, including Herman McMurray III, an engineering major at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, who wants to eventually own his own engineering firm or construction company.
“My goal is to become a highly skilled engineer who excels in both technical knowledge and practical application,” he said. “I want to work on innovative projects that improve infrastructure and benefit communities. Ultimately, I want to give back to my community by creating job opportunities and mentoring young people interested in the trades.”
Scholarship awards range from $400 to $1,600, depending on enrolled credit hours. Funds are sent directly to recipients so they can pay for essential needs such as rent, child care, gas, utilities, and school-related expenses.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Statewide, ASPSF awarded more than 1,300 scholarships totaling $1.9 million across 69 Arkansas counties and Bowie County, Texas — an increase from the 832 scholarships totaling $1.2 million awarded in 2024.
“These single parent scholarship awards are possible thanks to generous donors, organizations, schools, businesses, and foundations that believe in the transformative power of education,” according to the release.
In addition to financial awards, ASPSF provides a support network designed to help student parents stay on track. Staff and volunteers offer mentoring, career guidance, and workshops that build academic confidence and promote long-term success.
To qualify, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED but have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree. Students must be enrolled in at least one three-credit course — online or in person — maintain a 2.0 grade point average, meet income guidelines, and actively engage with the program through regular communication and workshop participation.
A complete list of eligibility requirements and details about scholarship cycles is available at aspsf.org/scholarships. ASPSF accepts applications three times a year: spring, summer, and fall.