In a groundbreaking initiative to increase access to higher education in Kentucky, Kentucky State University and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System announced the Kentuckians Pathway Scholarship. This new scholarship program guarantees a tuition-free bachelor’s degree for Pell-eligible students graduating from KCTCS and transfer students still working toward their two-year degrees.
The Kentuckians Pathway Scholarship is a renewable, last-dollar, non-refundable financial aid option for students transferring from KCTCS. It covers the cost of fall and spring tuition after federal and state aid has been disbursed.
To qualify, students must meet several criteria: be Pell-eligible, enroll full-time in a bachelor’s program at KSU, submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form, and complete a scholarship application. Applications for the spring semester opened on September 1 and will remain open until November 15.
KSU President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo expressed his enthusiasm for the scholarship. “We are very excited to offer the Kentuckians Pathway Scholarship to support incoming KCTCS transfer students. KSU is committed to removing barriers and expanding opportunities in higher education and we see that this scholarship has the potential to positively change students’ lives,” said Dr. Akakpo. “We see our partnership with KCTCS and this scholarship as a necessary investment in our future leaders and world changers by ensuring Kentuckians have access to affordable postsecondary education.”
Making Transferring Affordable
The development of this scholarship follows a partnership established last October between KSU and KCTCS. This partnership sought to create educational pathways that reduce financial barriers for students transitioning from community college to university. As part of this collaboration, both institutions have committed to investing in grants and scholarships for KCTCS graduates.
KCTCS President Ryan Quarles emphasized the transformative power of education. “We know education opens doors to opportunities that change lives forever. We also know that we have to do all that we can to make higher education affordable for Kentuckians,” said Quarles. “While not every student needs to attend a four-year institution to be successful, many of our students will continue their education after earning their associate degrees.”
Data from KCTCS indicates that most associate degree earners receive assistance through Pell Grants, a federal program designed to help lower-income students afford their education. During the 2022-23 academic year, 63%—or 5,630—of KCTCS associate degree earners benefited from these grants.
In addition to the scholarship, KSU faculty and staff are collaborating with KCTCS students and faculty to provide comprehensive institutional and financial aid support services. These resources include financial aid counseling, academic advising, and mentorship programs.
