8 scholarship opportunities in energy and environment to kick off 2026
Nationally, advanced energy jobs are growing fast, high paying, and have many entry opportunities for all skill levels. Within our state, energy represents 5.2% of total state employment. Students can jumpstart their energy career through apprenticeships, technical schools, and secondary schools. Below, the Arkansas Advanced Energy team has compiled eight opportunities for students interested in the energy or environment fields. Most Arkansas colleges and technical schools also provide private scholarships, so research opportunities with the institutions to which you are applying.
Arkansas Future Grant - spring deadline January 10, 2026
Arkansas Future (ArFuture) is the newest state grant program. The purpose of this grant is to increase the education and skills of Arkansas’s workforce in an affordable manner. The grant applies to students enrolled in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) or regional high-demand areas of study. The grant will cover tuition and fees for qualifying certificate and Associate degree programs at Arkansas’ public institutions for eligible students. The grant is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Apply here.
Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation Scholarship - due February 1, 2026
The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation Scholarship, in partnership with the SME Education Foundation, is now accepting applications. This program offers multiple scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 to support neurodiverse students pursuing careers in manufacturing. Learn more and apply at smeef.org/scholarships.
Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship - closes January 31, 2026
The Hollings Scholarship Program provides successful undergraduate applicants with awards that include academic assistance (up to $9,500 per year) for two years of full-time study and a 10-week, full-time paid ($700/week) internship at a NOAA facility during the summer. Apply here.
Oscar Washington, Jr. Educational Fund - close February 13, 2026
Created by the family and friends of Oscar David Washington, Jr., to honor his legacy, the Oscar Washington, Jr. Educational Fund helps Arkansan students pursue a quality, post-secondary education.
Academic Scholarship - for high school seniors in Arkansas
Continuing Scholars Grant - for undergraduate students that are Arkansas residents
NEW Ernest Leverett Vocational Scholarship - for high school students pursuing trade or technical school
Applications will close on February 13, 2026. Make sure your materials are ready and review all requirements here.
Udall Undergraduate Environment Scholarship - closes March 4, 2026
The Scholarship Program identifies future leaders in environmental, Tribal public policy, and health care fields. It is highly competitive, with students participating in their schools’ internal competitions before receiving consideration from the Udall Foundation. Apply here.
2026 Energy Workforce Scholarship Program - closes April 1, 2026
Each year, Energy Workforce provides scholarships to employees, spouses, children or other legal dependents of an employee of a Member Company. Awards will be made to those entering or continuing an undergraduate degree, graduate degree or vocational program. The scholarship recipient is eligible for a maximum of four years as long as the minimum standards are maintained. Apply here with access code 2026EWTC.