Learning at ASMSA
As an autonomous campus of the University of Arkansas System, ASMSA offers a dynamic range of courses in an early college environment that allows students to explore new ideas, cultivate their curiosity, and further develop their passions.
Our small class sizes allow students to receive greater individualized attention than available in most public schools. ASMSA has a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:8, and all classes are taught at the college level by instructors who hold advanced degrees in their subject areas.
ASMSA offers more than 70 university-level courses through our Concurrent Core. On average, an ASMSA graduate acquires 50 college credit hours by the time they finish high school.
Our dedicated Student Success Coordinators (SSCs) guide students throughout their time at ASMSA from assisting in coursework selection to identifying scholarships and programs best suited to their individual aspirations. SSCs help students and families navigate the waters of college admissions, scholarships, and financial aid. Last year’s graduates were offered $20 million in scholarships.
Students are able to explore other languages and cultures through ASMSA’s Global Learning Program. We believe that when students travel to a foreign country, encounter a different culture, and meet new people, they develop new perspectives, global awareness, and better critical thinking skills. More than 500 students and staff have explored the world and other cultures through ASMSA’s Global Learning Program.
Since ASMSA’s founding, research has been a core part of its identity. ASMSA students engage in a year-long Capstone where they apply their classroom education to real-world research, inquiry, and creative expression. Capstone topics range from Visual Art and Design to Research in the Park, from Mathematical Modeling to Music Theory. With twelve courses to choose from, students are able to develop a project that fits their goals and aspirations.
Living at ASMSA
With a student body of fewer than 300 and nearly 80 faculty and staff, students are known throughout all corners of campus and connected with a variety of support systems. Students flourish in ASMSA’s intentional community and establish lifelong friendships.
Student Life Staff foster an inclusive and engaging residential community where students cultivate the independence and self-discipline necessary for success as well as the requisite skills to thrive socially and emotionally. Residential programming focuses on social-emotional learning, leadership development, digital citizenship, healthy relationships, and other topics that recognize students’ needs as maturing young adults.
Safety and well-being of students is top priority. ASMSA employs a 24-hour security staff to monitor campus safety, and all campus buildings require key card access. The full-time nurse and licensed professional counselor are resources for students’ physical and mental well-being.
Admissions
Arkansas students are able to apply during their ninth, tenth, or even eleventh-grade year to attend ASMSA. Freshmen may apply to enter as sophomores through our Early Entrance pilot program or as part of the HELIX Prep Academy. Sophomores apply to enter as juniors through Standard Admission. Current juniors can extend their high school experience by two years as part of the Super Junior experience. Full requirements are available at https://asmsa.org/admissions.
ASMSA looks for students who are motivated, mature, and choose the most demanding courses offered at their sending schools. The application process opens in September of each year and concludes the following March 1st. There is no fee to apply, and housing, tuition, and meals are provided at zero cost to all ASMSA students.
Interested in learning more about ASMSA’s remarkable opportunities? Complete the online form, and we’ll get in touch with you.
Contact the Office of Admissions with any questions at admissions@asmsa.org. You can also call or text us at 501-622-5235. Schedule a tour or register to visit campus during a Preview Day, Shadow Stay, or one of our other admissions or outreach events by clicking here.
