
1100 Henderson Street, Arkadelphia, AR 71999-0001, USA


Henderson State University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This accreditation authorizes the university to award bachelor's, master's, and specialist degrees, reflecting that it meets established standards for higher education institutions. Prospective students can consider this accreditation as an assurance of the university's commitment to maintaining quality academic programs and institutional effectiveness.
Henderson State University requires applicants to hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or equivalent high school completion. Submission of a secondary school transcript is mandatory, and a minimum grade point average is required for consideration. Although the university does not require standardized computer proficiency or leasing, it recommends that applicants have completed some college-level coursework, provide recommendations, demonstrate competencies, and submit admission test scores to strengthen their application.
International applicants must submit a TOEFL score, as it is compulsory for admission. The university does not have an open admission policy, nor does it accept dual credit or credit transfer for admission purposes. However, Advanced Placement (AP) credits are recognized.
Regarding standardized testing, Henderson State University places a stronger emphasis on ACT scores, with 96% of enrolled students having ACT scores reported. The ACT score distribution indicates that 50% of enrolled students scored below 23, while 30% scored below 29. SAT scores are less frequently reported, comprising only 5% of admitted students. The average SAT composite score stands at 1065, with SAT Math averaging 538 and SAT Writing at 527, representing a range mostly in the lower percentiles nationally.
The university experiences an acceptance rate of approximately 82%, suggesting a moderately selective admissions process. Among 1,814 applicants, about 1,486 were admitted, with 306 students ultimately enrolling. Both application and enrollment figures reflect a level considered average compared to national benchmarks. Gender distribution shows a slightly higher number of female applicants and admissions, though enrollment numbers are more balanced between men and women.
Henderson State University requires prospective students to pay an application fee when submitting their admission materials. This fee is intended to cover administrative processing costs associated with reviewing applications. However, the university offers fee waivers for applicants who demonstrate financial need, helping to reduce barriers for students from low-income backgrounds. These waivers are available upon request and typically require documentation to verify eligibility. By providing this option, Henderson State University aims to ensure that the application process remains accessible to a diverse range of students without the application fee becoming a deterrent.
Henderson State University does not host its own ROTC programs on campus. Instead, students interested in pursuing ROTC training can participate through cooperative arrangements with other institutions that serve as host sites for ROTC units. This setup allows Henderson State University students to access ROTC programs by affiliating with a nearby cooperating host institution where the military training and coursework are conducted.
Henderson State University welcomes transfer students in multiple semesters, including fall, spring, and summer terms. The institution permits transfer credit and recognizes exams such as CLEP subject tests and DANTES for credit consideration, which may facilitate a smoother transfer process for qualifying students. While the overall admission difficulty is classified as moderately difficult, prospective transfer students should prepare accordingly to meet academic standards.
Henderson State University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs include faculty-led trips during academic breaks, which allow students to explore specific areas of study in an international context while earning course credit. Additionally, the university provides exchange programs and semester-long options, partnering with institutions worldwide to enable more immersive experiences. Students can engage in diverse destinations across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, aligning their global education with personal academic goals. The programs are structured to support students with guidance on travel logistics, credit transfer, and financial aid options, making international study accessible and integrated with their degree plans.
Median composite SAT score
1065Median composite ACT score
21Percent of students submitting ACT scores
96%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
5%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
Data not availableOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer