Looking to launch your career without the burden of student debt? The Kansas Promise Scholarship can help! This fantastic program is designed to make higher education at Kansas community colleges and technical schools more accessible for qualified students.
The power behind the Kansas Promise Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for Kansas high school students to pursue higher education without breaking the bank. Learn about the Kansas Promise Scholarship, a program that helps Kansas students achieve their college dreams. Find out if you qualify and how to apply for this free financial aid.
What is the Kansas Promise Scholarship?
The Kansas Promise Scholarship is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it covers the cost of tuition, mandatory fees, and books after all other financial aid (grants and scholarships) have been applied. This scholarship is a fantastic opportunity to earn an associate degree or certificate in a high-demand field without the worry of student loans.
Kansas Promise Scholarship Requirements
There are two main parts to qualifying for the KP Scholarship: residency requirements and income requirements.
Residency Requirements
- You must be a U.S. citizen and a Kansas resident.
- You must have graduated from a Kansas high school within the last 12 months, OR
- Have a GED or other high school equivalency credential within the last 12 months, OR
- Be 21 years old or older and a Kansas resident for the past three consecutive years, OR
- Be a dependent child of a military service member stationed out of state who graduated from high school or got their GED in the last 12 months.
Income Requirements
- Your family household income must be at or below $100,000 for a family of two.
- The income limit increases to $150,000 for a family of three.
- For families larger than three, the limit is $150,000 plus $4,800 for each additional family member.
There are also some additional requirements you need to meet to apply and keep the scholarship:
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Enroll in an eligible program of study
- Sign a KP Scholarship Agreement to live and work in Kansas for two years after graduation
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Complete your program within 36 months of receiving the scholarship
You can find more information about the KP Scholarship on the Kansas Board of Regents website: https://www.kansasregents.org/students/student_financial_aid/promise-act-scholarship.
Eligible Programs
The Kansas Promise Scholarship unlocks a treasure trove of educational possibilities for Kansas residents. But with a focus on specific in-demand fields, it’s crucial to understand which programs qualify for this generous scholarship. Here’s your roadmap to navigating the eligible program landscape:
Cornerstone Fields:
- Information Technology and Security: Dive into the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, computer networking, or software development.
- Mental and Physical Healthcare: Become a pillar of well-being by pursuing a program in nursing, medical assisting, or allied health fields.
- Advanced Manufacturing and Building Trades: Shape the future with a program in welding, machining, construction technology, or other skilled trades.
Early Childhood Education and Development: Nurture young minds with a program in early childhood education or child development.
Institutional Gems
Beyond these core areas, each Kansas community college, technical college, Washburn Institute of Technology, and some private institutions offer an additional eligible program. These unique offerings cater to local needs and can be a great way to discover your niche. To unearth these hidden gems, explore the websites of your preferred institutions or visit the Kansas Association of Community Colleges website (https://www.kacct.org/about) for a comprehensive list.
How Much Does the KP Scholarship Cover?
The Kansas Promise Scholarship covers the cost of tuition, mandatory fees, and books, up to a lifetime total of 68 credit hours or $20,000, whichever comes first. This allows you to complete most associate degree programs without any out-of-pocket costs for education.
Application Process
The application process for the KP Scholarship is straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
- Complete the FAFSA application (FAFSA website: https://studentaid.gov/) as early as possible in the fall of your senior year of high school.
- Apply for the Kansas Promise Scholarship through the Kansas Board of Regents website [Kansas Promise Scholarship Application]. The application typically opens in October.
- Contact your chosen school’s financial aid office to learn about additional scholarship and financial aid opportunities.
FAQs
Can I use the Kansas Promise Scholarship at a four-year university?
No, the Kansas Promise Scholarship is specifically for programs at community colleges, technical schools, Washburn Institute of Technology, and some private institutions.
Do I need to maintain good grades to keep the scholarship?
There is no specific GPA requirement to maintain eligibility for the Kansas Promise Scholarship. However, you must be making satisfactory academic progress according to your school’s standards.
What happens if I withdraw from school or take a break from my studies?
There are specific guidelines regarding how long you can pause your studies and still retain eligibility for the scholarship. Contact your school’s financial aid office for details.
How can I learn more about the Kansas Promise Scholarship?
You can find more information about the Kansas Promise Scholarship on the Kansas Board of Regents website [kansas promise scholarship ON Kansas Board of Regents kansasregents.org] or by contacting your chosen school’s financial aid office.
By taking advantage of the Kansas Promise Scholarship, you can gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in a high-demand career without the burden of student debt. Start planning today and take the first step towards your brighter future!