Arkansas Baptist College Admissions Requirements

Arkansas Baptist College (ABC), located in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a private, historically Black liberal arts institution. ABC provides a supportive and empowering environment, rooted in its Christian values, with the goal of fostering personal growth and academic excellence. The admissions process is designed to identify students who are aligned with the college’s mission and are prepared for academic success.

Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

General Application Requirements

To apply for undergraduate admission to Arkansas Baptist College, prospective students must submit the following materials:

• Completed Application Form: Students can apply online via the Arkansas Baptist College application portal. There is no application fee for submitting the application.
• Official High School Transcript: An official transcript from the applicant’s high school, including grades from all completed coursework, is required. Transcripts should indicate successful completion of a high school diploma or equivalent.
• ACT/SAT Scores: Submission of standardized test scores (ACT or SAT) is optional. However, students are encouraged to submit these scores if they feel they will strengthen their application.
• Proof of Immunization: Arkansas state law requires students to provide proof of immunization against certain diseases (e.g., MMR). Students must submit immunization records as part of the admissions process.
• Letters of Recommendation (Optional): While not mandatory, students may submit letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other mentors who can provide insight into the applicant’s academic abilities and personal character.
• Personal Statement (Optional): Although optional, students are encouraged to submit a personal statement that explains their motivation for attending Arkansas Baptist College and how they align with the institution’s mission and values.

Academic Requirements

Arkansas Baptist College takes a holistic approach to evaluating applicants, considering a variety of academic and personal factors. The primary academic qualifications considered include:

• High School GPA: There is no minimum GPA requirement for admission; however, students with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher are more likely to be successful in the admissions process.
• Coursework: Applicants are encouraged to have completed a well-rounded high school curriculum, including courses in:
  • 4 years of English
  • 3 years of Mathematics (including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II)
  • 3 years of Science (including at least one lab-based course)
  • 3 years of Social Studies
  • 2 years of a foreign language (recommended, but not required)

Application Deadlines

Arkansas Baptist College practices rolling admissions, meaning that applications are accepted throughout the year. However, applicants are encouraged to apply early to ensure that they are considered for financial aid and scholarships. Key deadlines to note include:

• Fall Semester: Priority application deadline is August 1.
• Spring Semester: Priority application deadline is December 1.

Transfer Student Admissions Requirements

Arkansas Baptist College welcomes transfer students from accredited institutions. The admissions process for transfer students is designed to be straightforward and to help facilitate a smooth transition into the ABC academic community.

General Application Requirements for Transfer Students

Transfer students must submit the following materials to be considered for admission:

• Completed Transfer Application: Transfer students must complete the Arkansas Baptist College application form. There is no application fee.
• Official College Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges or universities previously attended are required. Applicants should have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher on all college-level coursework to be considered for admission.
• High School Transcript: If the transfer student has completed fewer than 24 transferable college credits, they must also submit their official high school transcript.
• ACT/SAT Scores: Test scores are optional for transfer students. However, those with fewer than 24 transferable credits may submit their ACT or SAT scores if they feel the scores will strengthen their application.
• Proof of Immunization: Transfer students are also required to submit proof of immunization records, as mandated by Arkansas state law.

Transfer Credit Policies

Arkansas Baptist College evaluates transfer credits to ensure students receive appropriate credit for coursework completed at other accredited institutions. The key credit transfer policies include:

• Minimum Grade Requirement: Only courses in which a grade of “C” or better was earned will be considered for transfer credit.
• Maximum Transfer Credits: ABC allows students to transfer a maximum of 68 credits from a two-year institution (community college) and up to 90 credits from a four-year institution, depending on the program of study.
• Evaluation of Transfer Credits: Transfer credits are evaluated on a course-by-course basis to determine equivalency with ABC’s curriculum. Students are encouraged to work closely with the admissions office to ensure a smooth transfer of credits.

Application Deadlines for Transfer Students

Like first-year applicants, transfer students benefit from rolling admissions. However, applying early ensures that students can receive a timely admissions decision and be considered for scholarships and financial aid. Priority deadlines are:

• Fall Semester: August 1
• Spring Semester: December 1

International Student Admissions Requirements

Arkansas Baptist College welcomes international students from around the world. The admissions process for international applicants includes some additional requirements related to language proficiency and visa documentation.

General Application Requirements for International Students

International applicants must submit the following materials to be considered for admission:

• Completed Application: International students must complete the online Arkansas Baptist College application. There is no application fee for international applicants.
• Official Transcripts: International students must submit transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary institutions attended. Transcripts should be translated into English, if necessary, and evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service such as World Education Services (WES).
• Proof of English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency through one of the following standardized tests:
  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 61 iBT.
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5.
  • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 85.
• ACT/SAT Scores (Optional): Submission of standardized test scores is optional for international students, but scores can enhance an application.
• Financial Documentation: International students must submit proof of financial support, including bank statements or sponsorship letters, to demonstrate that they have the financial means to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one academic year.
• Copy of Passport: A photocopy of the identification page of the applicant’s passport is required to process visa documentation.

Visa and I-20 Documentation

Once accepted, international students will need to obtain an F-1 student visa to study in the United States. Arkansas Baptist College will issue the I-20 form, which is required for the visa application. To receive the I-20, students must submit:

• Proof of Financial Support: Documentation showing that the student has sufficient funds to cover at least one year of tuition, fees, and living expenses.
• SEVIS Fee Payment: Students must pay the SEVIS fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) as part of the visa process.

International Student Application Deadlines

International applicants should apply well in advance to allow sufficient time for visa processing. Recommended deadlines are:

• Fall Admission: Apply by June 1.
• Spring Admission: Apply by November 1.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Arkansas Baptist College is committed to making higher education accessible and affordable. The college offers a variety of financial aid options, including need-based aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. All students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid.

Types of Financial Aid Available

• Need-Based Financial Aid: Based on financial need, students may be eligible for Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and Federal Direct Loans. Arkansas Baptist College’s FAFSA code is 001087.
• Merit-Based Scholarships: ABC offers merit-based scholarships to students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership abilities, or extracurricular involvement. Examples of scholarships include:
  • Presidential Scholarship: Awarded to high-achieving students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
  • Dean’s Scholarship: Offered to students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • Athletic Scholarships: Awarded to students who participate in the college’s athletic programs, based on athletic performance and academic achievement.
• Work-Study Programs: Eligible students can participate in federal work-study programs to earn money for educational expenses through part-time employment on campus.

Veterans and Military Students

Arkansas Baptist College is committed to supporting veterans and military-affiliated students, offering specific resources and benefits to assist them in their educational journey.

Veterans Education Benefits

• GI Bill®: Arkansas Baptist College accepts Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits to help veterans and their families pay for tuition, fees, and living expenses.
• Yellow Ribbon Program: As a participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program, ABC helps veterans cover costs that exceed standard GI Bill® tuition and fee coverage.

Additional Support for Military Students

Arkansas Baptist College provides a range of support services for veterans and military-affiliated students, including:

• Veterans Services Office: Offers guidance on VA benefits, academic advising, and career services for veterans.
• Military-Friendly Campus: ABC is dedicated to creating an environment that supports the success of military-affiliated students through personalized academic and career support.

Admissions Contact Information

For more information about the admissions process or to ask specific questions, you can contact the Arkansas Baptist College Admissions Office:

Arkansas Baptist College Admissions Office
1621 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Little Rock, AR 72202
Phone: (501) 420-1200
Email: admissions@arkansasbaptist.edu
Website: www.arkansasbaptist.edu