College can be expensive, but Kansas is offering students a big opportunity to earn a degree or certificate for free through the Kansas Promise Scholarship.
Read more about Scholarship Programs here
If you’re a Kansas resident and want to attend a community college or technical school, this guide will explain everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
We’ll cover what the scholarship is, who qualifies, how to apply, which programs are eligible, and how it helps students financially.
What is the Kansas Promise Scholarship?
The Kansas Promise Scholarship Act was created to help Kansas residents attend eligible educational programs without paying tuition or fees.
It’s a last-dollar scholarship, which means it covers the remaining cost after other financial aid (like Pell Grants or scholarships) is applied.
Key Facts About the Kansas Promise Scholarship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Kansas Promise Scholarship |
| Created By | Kansas Legislature (2021) |
| Type | Last-dollar (covers remaining tuition/fees) |
| Eligibility | Kansas residents attending eligible institutions |
| Maximum Coverage | Up to full cost of tuition, fees, books, and materials |
| Commitment | Must live and work in Kansas for 2 years after graduation |
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the Kansas Promise Scholarship, students must meet the following:
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Be a Kansas resident
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Enroll in an eligible program at a Kansas community or technical college
- Not already hold a degree (some exceptions apply)
- Submit a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Sign a Kansas service agreement
Other Eligible Groups
- Recent high school graduates
- Adults changing careers
- Veterans
- Full-time and part-time students
Eligible Institutions
You must attend an approved Kansas institution. Here are some of the major ones:
Community and Technical Colleges in Kansas
- Johnson County Community College (JCCC)
- Wichita State University Tech
- Kansas City Kansas Community College
- Barton Community College
- Hutchinson Community College
For the full list: Kansas Board of Regents
Eligible Programs
The scholarship supports programs in high-demand fields. Each institution offers approved programs in the following areas:
High-Demand Fields Covered
- Information Technology & Security
- Health Care
- Advanced Manufacturing & Building Trades
- Early Childhood Education & Development
- Business & Accounting
✅ Check your school’s program list for details: JCCC Kansas Promise Programs
How Much Does It Cover?
The Kansas Promise Act covers these costs after other financial aid is applied:
| Expense Type | Covered? |
|---|---|
| Tuition | ✅ Yes |
| Mandatory Fees | ✅ Yes |
| Required Books | ✅ Yes |
| Program Materials | ✅ Yes |
| Room and Board | ❌ No |
You must reapply every academic year. Scholarships are limited by funding, so apply early!
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Fill Out the FAFSA
Submit the FAFSA at studentaid.gov
Step 2: Choose a Kansas School and Program
Make sure your program is eligible under Kansas Promise.
Step 3: Complete the Kansas Promise Scholarship Application
Each school has its own version. Visit your institution’s financial aid office or website.
Step 4: Sign the Kansas Promise Agreement
This agreement says you agree to live and work in Kansas for two years after graduation.
Step 5: Submit All Documents on Time
Deadlines may vary by school, so check early.
What is the Kansas Promise Agreement?
When you accept the scholarship, you commit to:
- Live and work in Kansas for at least 2 years after completing your program
- Repay the scholarship if you don’t meet the agreement terms (unless waived due to hardship)
Can I Use This Scholarship for Online Classes?
Yes! If your program is approved and offered online by a Kansas school, the scholarship still applies.
Who Should Consider This Scholarship?
The Kansas Promise Scholarship is great for:
- Students looking to avoid student debt
- Career changers entering high-demand fields
- Adults returning to school
- Recent high school graduates not pursuing a four-year degree
Real Student Example (JCCC)
Sarah, a single mom in Overland Park, wanted to become a nurse. She enrolled in the nursing program at JCCC. With the Kansas Promise Scholarship, she paid $0 in tuition, got help with books, and landed a job within 6 months of graduating.
She now works full-time at a local clinic and didn’t take any student loans.
FAQs
Do I have to pay it back?
Only if you don’t meet the work and residency requirement of staying in Kansas for 2 years after your program.
Can I go to a university with this scholarship?
It only applies to eligible programs at community colleges and technical schools, not universities.
What happens if I move out of Kansas?
You may have to repay the scholarship unless you qualify for an exemption.
Can I use other scholarships or Pell Grants with it?
Yes. The Kansas Promise Scholarship kicks in after other aid has been applied.
What if I switch programs or drop out?
Notify your school. You may lose eligibility or have to repay if you drop out.
Conclusion
The Kansas Promise Scholarship is a fantastic way for Kansas residents to earn a degree or certificate without the burden of debt.
If you’re thinking about advancing your career, going back to school, or starting a new path, this program could be the perfect fit.
With support for tuition, fees, books, and materials, and a clear path to employment, it’s designed to help students succeed while strengthening the Kansas workforce.
Start your application today by contacting your local community college or visiting kansasregents.org.
