Arizona Teachers Academy (ATA) Scholarship
The Arizona Teachers Academy (ATA) Scholarship supports future teachers enrolled in educator preparation programs at Maricopa Community Colleges. If approved, ATA can help you cover tuition and fees after other grants and scholarships are applied—in exchange for a commitment to teach in an Arizona public or charter school for as many years as you receive funding (a maximum of two years).
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education at one of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges are encouraged to apply for the ATA Scholarship. Additionally, students who already have a bachelor’s degree can apply for ATA funding to support them in their post-baccalaureate education program.
The ATA Scholarship is currently offered through five participating colleges in the Maricopa system:
Glendale Community College
Mesa Community College
Paradise Valley Community College
Rio Salado College
Scottsdale Community College
Scholarship Information
The ATA Scholarship is a “support now, serve later” scholarship. If you receive ATA funding, you agree to teach in an Arizona public or charter school for the same number of years you received funding—up to two years.
If you don’t successfully complete the coursework or don’t meet the teaching commitment, you may be required to repay scholarship funds.
ATA support may include:
- Scholarship funding toward tuition and course and registration fees (amount varies)
- Paid certification fees
- Vouchers for required state tests
- Access to Induction Services after you successfully complete your program
Funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis once you’ve met all criteria and your application is complete.
Eligibility Requirements
All eligibility requirements must be met in order to be considered for the scholarship.
Have an active admissions application on file with a participating college.
Be enrolled in either the Post-baccalaureate (teacher preparation) or Bachelor’s degree (educator preparation) program.
Be a U.S. Citizen or an eligible Non-Citizen.
Meet minimum Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
Have a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file.
Have accepted all free and gift aid offered.
Apply for the Scholarship
The ATA Scholarship is now offered through five participating colleges in the Maricopa system.
Post-Baccalaureate Education Programs
Rio Salado College
With 48 start dates to choose from each year, Rio Salado’s online post-baccalaureate program can start you on the path to a teaching certificate when it’s convenient for you. Typically, this program takes two years to complete.
Scottsdale Community College
The STEP program at Scottsdale Community College is the Valley’s only one-year post-baccalaureate teacher certification program. This in-person/online hybrid program accepts students in May and November.