Undergraduate Scholarships
The Middle East Studies Program supports the best of its undergraduates with scholarships for academic excellence, research, and study abroad. Scholarships are dedicated to declared MEST majors. All prospective MEST Scholarship applicants must have secured admission to the University of Arkansas before the review of their application materials.
Deadlines and requirements are subject to change without prior notice. Please address any questions about deadlines and the application process to Renato Despain, MEST Program Manager.
Deadline: February 1 March 1
We are excited to announce that the MEST Academic Scholarship is available to MEST majors (including incoming first-year students) who have demonstrated a serious commitment to study and excellence in their coursework at the University or High School level. Scholarship amounts range from partial to the full cost of attendance. This is an incredible opportunity open to our Middle East Studies majors. Please review the eligibility requirements below and consider submitting your application. The deadline for new and renewing applications is March 1, 2026.
Requirements:
- Declared major in Middle East Studies
- Minimum 3.0 overall GPA (high school GPA for incoming first-year students) and a GPA of 3.5 in MEST courses
- A 2-3 page Statement of Purpose indicating the course of study and academic ambitions
-
2 faculty recommendation letters, at least one affiliated with the MEST program. High school and transfer students are also eligible and may solicit letters from professors at their prior institution who can speak to their interest and academic potential.
Scholarships are granted for 1 academic year (2 semesters) beginning in the Fall term, and are renewable for up to 3 years (6 semesters) with approval. Scholarship awardees must maintain a 3.5 GPA in MEST core courses and a 3.25 overall GPA, and must continue to pursue a relevant course of study.
Renewing Scholarships:
Scholarship recipients seeking continued funding must submit a formal renewal request to the King Fahd Center, along with a letter of recommendation from a faculty member affiliated with the MEST program (see Directory).
To qualify for a renewal, recipients must:
- Have maintained a 3.5 GPA in MEST core courses and a 3.0 overall GPA, and continue to pursue a relevant course of study
- Submit a letter formally requesting consideration for funding renewal
- 2 faculty recommendation letters, at least one affiliated with the MEST program.
Renewal applications will be considered alongside new applicants and will have the same deadline.
Deadline: March 1
The King Fahd Center offers scholarships for undergraduate students majoring in Middle East Studies to support study abroad programs in the Middle East and North Africa. These scholarships are traditionally awarded for summer study abroad programs, but may be applied to programs during the Fall or Spring semester with approval from the MEST Director.
Programs must be approved by the King Fahd Center and the Office for Study Abroad and International Exchange. A limited number of grants will be available on a competitive basis.
Requirements:
- Declared major in Middle East Studies
- 1 recommendation letter from a faculty member affiliated with the MEST program (view Directory). Transfer students are also eligible and may solicit letters from professors at their prior institution who can speak to their interest and academic potential.
In granting scholarships, the King Fahd Center considers the applicant’s academic record, letters of recommendation, and financial need.