The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts is a public, residential high school for talented and highly motivated students who have an interest and aptitude for mathematics and science as well as a passion for creativity and the arts.
In order to graduate from ASMSA, students must complete a program of study at least two years in length that exceeds the state SMART Core requirements and includes numerous college-level classes.
All Applicants
All students seeking to apply for admission to ASMSA should:
- be a resident of the State of Arkansas;
- demonstrate high motivation and academic achievement that warrant more challenging and diversified curricula as they continue their high school experience;
- submit standardized achievement/assessment test scores, with preference to exams taken during the year of application. At least one of these must be either the ACT or SAT. To meet minimum requirements, applicants must score a 19 or higher Composite ACT score or SAT equivalent as well as a minimum 19 subscore on the English, Math, and Reading sections of the ACT. The Science section is preferred while the writing portion of the exam is not required;
- possess a minimum GPA of 3.5 at their sending school;
- demonstrate clear evidence of strong aptitude and interest in mathematics, science, humanities, or art;
- submit the required essay and other application information;
- be noted for their intellectual curiosity, analytical thinking, and imagination through letters of recommendation through one (1) letter of recommendation from a high school educator who has knowledge of the applicant’s academic ability, capacity for growth, and personal integrity;
- conduct an interview on campus if advanced to semifinalist status;
- completed Algebra I, preferably Geometry before enrolling at ASMSA.
Admissions Pathways
Sophomore Entry
The Sophomore Entry pathway is designed for ambitious students ready to maximize their high school experience. Students beginning in the 10th grade complete a three-year residential and early college program while pursuing either the STEM or Humanities pathway. Along the way, students build lasting friendships, engage in hands-on research and leadership opportunities, and graduate with a minimum of 30 college credit hours with many earning 50 or more before receiving their high school diploma.
Standard Admission
The Standard Admission pathway welcomes students entering the 11th grade who are ready to challenge themselves in a rigorous and supportive learning environment. Students choose with the STEM or Humanities pathway and spend two years immersed in advanced academics, residential life, and unique extracurricular opportunities. Graduates leave ASMSA with a minimum of 30 college credit hours with many earning more than 50, giving them a significant head start on college.
Super Junior
The Super Junior pathway offers students a unique opportunity to invest an additional year in their education by beginning ASMSA during what would traditionally be their senior year of high school. Over two year, students complete either the STEM or Humanities pathway while experiencing residential life, earning a minimum of 30 college credit hours — with many completing 50 or more — and strengthening their academic preparation before transitioning to college.
Music POD
Created for students with exceptional musical talent, the Music POD combines ASMSA's nationally recognized academics with intensive musical training and performance opportunities. Students may enter in the 10th or 11th grade and complete either a two- or three-year program that develops both their artistic and academic potential. Graduates earn a minimum of 30 college credit hours while preparing for success in music and beyond.
Art POD
The Art POD is designed for creative students who want to pair rigorous academics with focused artistic development. Beginning in the 10th or 11th grade, students complete a two- or three-year program featuring intensive visual arts instruction, portfolio development, and creative exploration alongside ASMSA's challenging curriculum. Graduates earn a minimum of 30 college credit hours while developing the skills and experiences needed for success in college and creative careers.
Additional Information
For all explanations concerning the assessments, please refer to the current Student Handbook.
Cost to Attend ASMSA
- Applies well before the March 1st deadline;
- Exhibits maturity, independence, and self motivation
- Submits competitive grade point average and competitive ACT (~26 composite) or SAT (1240) scores;
- Has taken the most demanding courses offered at their sending school;
- Submits coherent, well-written essays; and
- Retains copies of all documents in case there is an issue with submission of the application and supporting materials.
ASMSA is a state-funded educational program. The annual combined residential and concurrent credit assessment is approximately $350. Financial assistance is available for all students who qualify under federal School Meal (Free and Reduced Lunch) guidelines. High school tuition, textbooks, housing, and meals are covered under ASMSA's state funding. Personal items, travel, and phone expenses are the family’s responsibility.
The following yearly assessments are :
- $110 - Student Activity Assessment
- $30 - Room Assessment
- $45 - Electricity Assessment
- $25 - Technology Assessment
- $25 - SGA Extracurricular Fund Assessment
- $50 - Research and Capstone Support Assessment
- $40 - Laundry (Laundry facilities are available on each wing. Students may use them as often as needed.)
- $25 - Parents Association Dues
- TOTAL ASSESSMENT: $350 for each academic year.
Residential assessments are due no later than June 15 the summer prior to enrollment.
Fall semester concurrent credit assessments are due by September 1.
Spring semester concurrent credit assessments are due by February 1.
All assessments are nonrefundable in the event a student withdraws from ASMSA.
Visit ASMSA
Be a researcher. Be an artist. Be a scholar. Learn how ASMSA can help you become remarkable.
The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts invites you to Schedule a Tour, participate in one of our many Admissions and Outreach Programs, or attend a Dolphin Discovery Day to learn how you can attend one of the nation's top high schools.
As a high school sophomore or junior, you can join a community of peers from all over Arkansas who are dreamers, thinkers and doers at the state's premier public high school.
Engage in courses designed to challenge bright minds. Travel to international destinations and explore other cultures. Grow as a student while earning more than a year of college credit.
Be a researcher. Be an artist. Be a scholar.