If you are an international student seeking a fully-funded graduate assistantship in the USA, the 2026 scholarship opportunity at Arkansas Tech University (ATU) could be a game-changer.
This award offers substantial financial support (including full tuition waiver plus stipend) for eligible master’s students, enabling you to pursue your postgraduate studies in the United States with minimal financial burden.
Below is a quick snapshot of the scholarship — read on for full details, eligibility criteria, benefits and how to apply.
Summary Table: ATU Scholarship 2026
| Category | Details |
| Host University | Arkansas Tech University (ATU), Russellville, Arkansas, USA |
| Study Level | Master’s degree (Graduate Assistantship) |
| Eligible Countries | All nationalities (International students) |
| Funding / Reward | Tuition waiver + stipend (approx. US$14,000 annually as cited) |
| IELTS / English Test | Not explicitly required (check departmental rules) |
| Application Deadline | 30 October 2025 (for the cited cycle) |
| Scholarship Type | Fully-funded (assistantship) for study in USA |
Scholarship Overview
The ATU scholarship is offered as a “Graduate Assistantship” for international students willing to pursue a Master of Science (in e.g., Fisheries & Wildlife Science) beginning Spring 2026 (January).
The project, hosted within the Department of Biology & Earth Sciences, involves research on diet, habitat and morphometrics of target species in the Illinois Bayou watershed and neighbouring watersheds.
Recipients assist with teaching/research responsibilities, receive a stipend (~US$14,000/year) plus a full tuition waiver.
ATU is located in Russellville, Arkansas (approximately 80 miles northwest of Little Rock) and offers a community-oriented campus and, supportive environment for international students.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
- Full tuition waiver + stipend: This combination significantly reduces financial strain for international students.
- Research-based assistantship: You’ll gain hands-on field and lab experience (sampling trips, analysis/modeling) which enhances your CV.
- US institution exposure: Studying in the USA provides access to networks, resources, and global visibility.
- Support for international students: ATU has an International Students & Scholars office offering services tailored to overseas students, including admissions, visa support and integration.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this ATU scholarship, you must meet the following:
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in fisheries or a natural resources-related field, with coursework in fisheries management and statistics.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on 4.0 scale).
- Valid U.S. driver’s licence.
- Willingness to participate in field sampling trips (including weekend work).
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience with standard fish-sampling techniques.
- Experience in modelling/data analysis using software such as R.
- Ability to work independently on field/ laboratory assignments.
Benefits of the Scholarship
When awarded, you will receive:
- A full tuition waiver for your master’s programme.
- A stipend of approx. US$14,000 per year to cover living expenses.
- Opportunity to engage in meaningful research and fieldwork that contributes to the management and conservation of species.
- Access to ATU’s academic, research and support facilities as an international graduate student.
Required Documents & Application Process
To apply, prepare the following documents:
- Cover letter: Clearly explain your research interests, career goals and relevant experience.
- Curriculum Vitae/Resume.
- Contact information for three referees (academic or professional).
- Academic transcripts verifying your bachelor’s degree and grade performance.
How to Apply
- Email khecke@atu.edu one combined PDF containing all required materials to the specified faculty (for example, to Dr Kyler Hecke at ATU) by the deadline (30 October 2025).
- Interviews: Applications will be reviewed as they arrive; shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview in early October.
- Admission: The selected student must apply for admission to the MSFWS (Master of Science in Fisheries & Wildlife Science) programme by mid-November.
- Only complete applications will be considered. Incomplete submissions are automatically disqualified.
For more details about this scholarship, click here.
For the main university website, click here.
Tips to Boost Your Application
- Emphasise your fieldwork or lab experience, especially in fisheries or aquatic biology.
- Highlight your data analysis and modelling skills (R, statistics) – this is a strong differentiator.
- Clearly articulate why you want this specific project at ATU and how it links with your career goals.
- Tailor your cover letter: mention the research topic (diet, microhabitat, morphometrics) to show you’ve done your homework.
- Meet the deadline early — late or partial applications do not proceed.
- If English is not your native language, mention any test scores or experience using English academically/professionally.
FAQ
Is IELTS required?
Not explicitly stated. But strong English proficiency (written and spoken) is expected, especially for research and fieldwork roles.
Can I apply for a different master’s programme at ATU?
This specific assistantship relates to the MS in Fisheries & Wildlife Science. If you’re interested in other programmes, check for separate assistantships or scholarships.
What happens with housing and living expenses?
While the stipend (~US$14,000) helps cover living costs, you should also research housing, living costs in Russellville, visa requirements, and plan accordingly.
Is this really fully funded?
Yes, in the sense of tuition waiver + stipend, but “fully funded” always requires checking for any extra costs (visa fees, travel, books, additional living expenses).
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