ATU’s Financial Aid Office provides information about several Types of Aid (scroll down to “Resources”). Details about additional assistance can be found on the Federal and Private Student Loans page.

In addition, most Educational Leadership students are eligible for the TOP Grant. This can reimburse teachers and administrators up to $3,000 a year for tuition and fees. Over the years, every student in our program who has applied for this grant has received it.*

Finally, the Arkansas Department of Education (DESE) Grant Opportunities webpage lists numerous state grants. These include the STEP grant (up to $4,000 year) and the “Geographical Need” grant ($1,500 year). The site also provides links to numerous external grant opportunities … from AAC to AEA to Walton and Rockefeller grants.

Hopefully the information above will prove helpful as you explore options for helping you finance the degrees/endorsements you need to expand your educational career.

*UPDATE: As of September 2026, ADHE is changing this grant from a “reimbursement” plan (where you have to pay, then be reimbursed afterwards) to an “advance pay” arrangement (where funds go directly to the University rather than to the student.) Please note that this NEW FORM is required when applying for Summer and Fall 2026. For more information, please use the contact information found at the bottom of the ADHE TOP Grant page. ATU does not administer the grant, we only inform students of its availability.