What is the Gifted & Talented Scholars Summer Academy (SA)?
The Gifted & Talented Scholars Summer Academy is an intensive three-week residential experience for students with exceptional academic ability and interest who are completing the 8th or 9th grades. Summer Academy provides an educationally advanced and dynamic learning environment designed to develop the intellect and imaginations of academically advanced and ambitious students. more info

When is the Gifted & Talented Scholars Summer Academy?
The 2009 SA session will begin with move-in on Sunday, July 5 and conclude with student presentations and a completion ceremony on Saturday, July 25.

Do I have to be a University of Arkansas GT Scholar to apply?
No. GT Scholars currently in the 8th or 9th grades will automatically receive information about SA, but any eligible student can apply to attend.  

When are the SA applications due?
Applications that are postmarked on or before the priority deadline of March 15, 2009 will receive full consideration. Applications received after the priority deadline will be considered only if openings are still available. apply now

How much does SA cost and what does that cover?
The cost to attend Summer Academy is $2,500, which includes tuition for the academic program, room and board including three meals a day, all laboratory and computer fees, course materials, charges, facilities usage, recreational program costs, evening entertainment program expenses, and Saturday field trips including transportation and admission fees.

Will I need any additional money while at SA?
Tuition for SA does not include the cost of transportation to and from the University of Arkansas or personal spending money.

Are scholarships available?
Yes. There are scholarships available to assist students with the cost of attendance. These include both academic and need based scholarships with awards ranging from $250 - $2450. Students applying for scholarships must complete and submit the scholarship application along with the SA application. Additional essays are required. Applications for a need-based scholarship require submission of additional materials. Students receiving scholarships will be notified at the time of acceptance.

How many courses can I take?
Students who attend SA will have the opportunity to take one academic course during the three-week session. These courses will be intensive, hands-on, and fun. Students indicate their course choices at the time of application. Course assignments are made from one of the courses ranked.

Can I get high school credit for the course I take?
Summer Academy does not offer course credit for high school or college.

Will the course count for college credit?
The SA course will not transfer to college credit. However, upon completion of the Summer Academy, students will receive a certificate of completion and an invitation to work towards accelerated admission to the University of Arkansas.

Will there be any free time?
Yes, SA students have recreation time during weekday afternoons, as well as supervised free time in the evenings and on the weekends.

Where will I be housed?
SA participants will be housed in a University of Arkansas residence hall. Male and female students live on separate floors in the same building. Students will be assigned roommates by the SI staff. The residence hall is a secure building, meaning that only students with the proper identification key cards can enter the building. The residential mentors provide 24-hour supervision during the program. The residential component allows participants to get a taste of college residential life, as well as giving them the opportunity to develop lasting friendships with other students.