Introduction
Mississippi has a long-standing commitment to providing students with access to higher education. The ACT scholarship program is a cornerstone of this commitment, offering substantial financial support to students who demonstrate academic excellence on the ACT college entrance exam.
Eligibility and Benefits
Students who are Mississippi residents and have achieved a qualifying ACT composite score are eligible for MS State ACT scholarships. The scholarship amounts vary based on the ACT score, with higher scores receiving larger awards. The current scholarship structure is outlined in Table 1.
| ACT Composite Score | Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|
| 36 | $10,000 per year |
| 35 | $9,000 per year |
| 34 | $8,000 per year |
| 33 | $7,000 per year |
| 32 | $6,000 per year |
| 31 | $5,000 per year |
| 30 | $4,000 per year |
Distribution and Renewal
Scholarships are distributed annually and may be renewed for up to four years of undergraduate study. To renew their scholarship, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and continue to demonstrate academic progress.
Impact
The MS State ACT scholarship program has made a significant impact on the lives of Mississippi students. The scholarships help reduce the financial burden of college, allowing students to focus on their studies and achieve their educational goals.
According to the Mississippi Office of Higher Education:
- 25,000 students have received ACT scholarships since the program’s inception in 1993.
- 95% of scholarship recipients went on to college immediately after high school graduation.
- 65% of scholarship recipients earned a college degree within six years.
Application
Students must apply for the MS State ACT scholarship through the Mississippi Office of Higher Education. Applications are typically open in the fall and must be submitted by December 15th.
Strategies for Success
Preparing for the ACT can be daunting, but there are proven strategies students can follow to increase their chances of achieving a high score:
- Start early: Allow yourself ample time to study and practice.
- Practice regularly: Take practice tests and review the results to identify areas of improvement.
- Identify your strengths and weaknesses: Focus on improving areas where you need support.
- Seek professional help: Consider tutoring or ACT prep classes for additional guidance.
- Stay motivated: Remember the potential benefits of a high ACT score and set goals to stay on track.
Why It Matters
Education empowers individuals to succeed in life and contribute to society. The MS State ACT scholarship program is an investment in the future of Mississippi, providing students with the financial resources they need to pursue higher education and achieve their full potential.
Conclusion
The MS State ACT scholarship program is a vital resource for Mississippi students seeking financial assistance for college. By providing substantial awards based on academic excellence, the program opens doors to educational opportunities and empowers students to shape their future.
