Kansas State University Scholarships (2026–2027)
← Back to college scholarships hub • See Kansas aid & Grants
Last Updated on June 2, 2026
What This Page Covers:- Tuition, housing, and average family net price
- Automatic merit ranges and qualifier benchmarks
- Flagship and hidden-gem awards
- Honors and stacking strategy
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~96%
- Middle 50% ACT: 20-27
- Middle 50% SAT: 1060-1255
- Average GPA: 3.7
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Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 Kansas State University at a Glance
🏆 Full Tuition Opportunity Available
Average Net Price
$18,745/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
$1,000–$10,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
21 opportunities
10 automatic · 5 competitive · 5 hidden gem · 1 honors
Typical Qualifiers
GPA 3+; ACT 24+ / SAT 1160+
Benchmarks for top-tier awards.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Dec 1 • FAFSA: Feb 1
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Available for top qualifiers
Honors College
Honors Program Available
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at Kansas State University (Read This First)
- December 1 priority deadline matters: That’s where the best automatic merit consideration happens—wait too long and you may leave money on the table.
- Big scholarships are not automatic: Awards like Presidential or Vanier Family are full tuition or better, but extremely competitive and require more than just strong grades.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — Kansas State University is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 20-27; SAT: 1060-1255.
Average net price? About $18,745/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes — participates in msep.
💰 Cost of Attendance at Kansas State University 2026-2027
📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 numbers are released.
Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.
| Category (2026–2027) |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2 semesters) |
$12,694 |
$30,388 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$13,652 |
$13,652 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$26,346 |
$44,040 |
Average Federal Net Price: $18,745 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Regional Tuition Discounts: Kansas State participates in the
Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP),
allowing eligible out-of-state students from participating states to receive reduced tuition—typically up to
10–15% off the full nonresident rate. MSEP awards are application-based and may be limited by major.
Sources:
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/cost/manhattan-campus-costs/undergraduate.html
https://www.k-state.edu/finsvcs/cashiers/costs/
https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/edu/155399/kansas-state-university/tuition/
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/kansas-state-university/tuition-and-costs
https://msep.mhec.org/eligibility
https://msep.mhec.org
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Superscoring & Deadline: Kansas State superscores ACT and SAT results when determining eligibility for automatic scholarships.
Students who apply by the March 1 priority deadline are automatically considered—no separate application needed.
Automatic
University Scholar Award
📅 Deadline: Apr 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.9+ GPA✎ ~29 ACT✎ ~1330 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students earn only one general university scholarship or award — this is the top tier. You can stack departmental and competitive awards on top, subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
💡
Strategic Detail
K-State's top automatic in-state award — $5,500/year, $22,000 total over four years. Your admission application does double duty, so there's nothing extra to fill out. Just make sure scores arrive by Apr 1 if you want upgrade consideration. Renewal requires a 3.0 K-State GPA, full-time enrollment, and 24 credit hours per academic year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Kansas residents who enter with a 3.85+ best cumulative GPA and an ACT of 29 or higher (or SAT 1330+). If your test score is lower, you may land in the Royal Purple tier instead — so submitting scores by Apr 1 is worth it.
Automatic
Royal Purple Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Apr 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.7+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students earn only one general university scholarship or award. Departmental and competitive awards may stack on top, subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
💡
Strategic Detail
$4,000/year, $16,000 total. Your admission application handles everything automatically. Renewal requires a 3.0 K-State GPA, full-time enrollment, and 24 credit hours per academic year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Kansas residents with a best cumulative GPA of 3.70–3.84 (or 3.85+ with lower test scores). Students with a 3.85+ GPA and a strong ACT/SAT may upgrade to University Scholar if scores are submitted by Apr 1.
Automatic
Wildcat Traditions Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Apr 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students earn only one general university scholarship or award. Competitive and departmental awards may stack on top within cost-of-attendance limits.
💡
Strategic Detail
$2,500/year, $10,000 total. Completely automatic — no essay, no interview, no extra forms. Renewal requires a 3.0 K-State GPA, full-time enrollment, and 24 credit hours per academic year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Kansas residents with a best cumulative GPA of 3.50–3.69 who apply and enroll on time. Submitting a strong ACT/SAT can move some students up to the Royal Purple tier.
Automatic
Limestone Award
📅 Deadline: Apr 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students earn only one general university scholarship or award. Competitive and departmental awards may stack on top within cost-of-attendance limits.
💡
Strategic Detail
$1,500/year, $6,000 total. This award is specifically designed for the lower ACT/SAT and no-test columns of the award grid — so students who haven't submitted test scores can still land automatic money. Renewal requires a 3.0 K-State GPA, full-time enrollment, and 24 credit hours per academic year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Kansas residents with a 3.50+ GPA who have a lower ACT/SAT or no test score on file. If your student has a solid GPA but hasn't tested, this is the no-test safety net in the grid.
Automatic
1863 Landmark Award
📅 Deadline: Apr 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students earn only one general university scholarship or award. Competitive and departmental awards may stack on top within cost-of-attendance limits.
💡
Strategic Detail
$1,000/year, $4,000 total. This is the entry-level tier of the Kansas Resident Awards grid — every qualifying GPA band is covered regardless of test score. Renewal requires a 3.0 K-State GPA, full-time enrollment, and 24 credit hours per academic year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Kansas residents with a best cumulative GPA of 3.25–3.49, regardless of test score. Named after K-State's founding year, this award ensures even students at the edge of the grid walk away with guaranteed money.
Automatic⚠ Transfer Only
Transfer 1863 Landmark Award
📅 Deadline: May 1 (summer/fall); Dec 1 (spring)
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 3 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 Transfer
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students earn only one general university transfer scholarship. Competitive and departmental awards may stack on top within cost-of-attendance limits.
💡
Strategic Detail
$1,000/year, $3,000 total over three years. Completely automatic for qualifying in-state transfers — just apply on time. Renewal requires a 3.0 K-State GPA, full-time enrollment, and 24 credit hours per academic year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
In-state transfer students with a cumulative college GPA of 3.0–3.49. If your GPA is 3.5 or above, you'll land in the higher Transfer Impact tier instead.
Automatic⚠ Transfer Only
Phi Theta Kappa Award
📅 Deadline: May 1 (summer/fall); Dec 1 (spring)
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.5+ GPA🎓 Transfer
✚
Stacking & Combining
This is a one-time award that stacks on top of the general transfer scholarship (Transfer Impact or Transfer 1863 Landmark), subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
💡
Strategic Detail
A clean $1,000 bonus for PTK members — no extra application, no essay, just check the box on your admission form. The catch is timing: you must hold active PTK membership in your final semester at your prior institution. One-time, non-renewable.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Transfer students who are active PTK members with a 3.5+ cumulative college GPA and who designate their PTK membership on the admission application. The key detail: you must still be a PTK member in the semester immediately before you start at K-State.
Automatic
Heritage Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.8+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1310 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Superseded by University Scholar, Royal Purple, Wildcat Traditions, Limestone, and 1863 Landmark awards.
💡
Strategic Detail
Obsolete automatic scholarship retained for historical reference.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: No longer awarded as of 2026-2027; see current Kansas Resident Awards grid.
Automatic
Presidential Scholarship (former automatic)
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$10,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.9+ GPA✎ ~32 ACT✎ ~1420 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Superseded by Kansas Resident Awards grid.
💡
Strategic Detail
Obsolete automatic scholarship retained for historical reference.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: No longer awarded to 2026-2027 entrants; see current Kansas Resident Awards grid.
Automatic
Purple & White Scholarship (former automatic)
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.6+ GPA✎ ~24 ACT✎ ~1160 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Superseded by current Kansas Resident Awards grid; students may earn only one general university award.
💡
Strategic Detail
Obsolete automatic scholarship retained for historical reference.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: No longer awarded as of 2026-2027; see Royal Purple, Wildcat Traditions, Limestone, and 1863 Landmark Awards.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
GPA and test score cutoffs are based on Kansas State’s published ranges for 2026–2027 and may shift each year depending on applicant volume and available funding.
Awards are automatic with admission; no extra forms required.
Automatic Scholarship FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for these scholarships?
No — if your student applies by the March 1 priority deadline and submits their academic record, they’ll be automatically reviewed.
Are test scores required?
No, but submitting ACT or SAT results can raise the award amount and help reach higher tiers.
When will we find out if my student qualifies?
Automatic scholarships are typically awarded at the same time as admission decisions, usually within a few weeks of acceptance.
Sources:
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/priority-dates.html
https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/incoming-freshmen/scores-precollege-curriculum.html
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/kansas-resident-awards/
https://www.k-state.com/news/2022newscholarshipprogram.php
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/renewal-requirements/
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/additional-opportunities/freshman/competitive/presidential-scholarship.html
Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships)
App Required
Nancy Landon Kassebaum Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 15 · 📢 Results: mid-Jan
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.6+ GPA✎ ~26 ACT✎ ~1240 SAT👥 ~5 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with other K-State scholarships within cost-of-attendance limits. Recipients also gain access to K-State's Assistant Dean for Prestigious Scholarships to pursue the Truman Scholarship and other national public service awards.
📄
How to Apply
Submit your K-State admission application, then complete the Kassebaum Scholarship application by Dec 15. Finalists are required to participate in an on-campus or virtual interview and recognition event in early February.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
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Strategic Detail
Named after Kansas Senator Nancy Landon Kassebaum Baker, this $5,000 one-time award honors students who want to make a difference in public life — regardless of major. Up to five awards per year. Beyond the money, winners get dedicated support to apply for the Truman Scholarship, one of the most prestigious national awards for students committed to public service.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Up to five students per year who genuinely want to build careers in government, nonprofits, or public service — any major is welcome. Expect a 3.6+ best GPA, ACT 26+ (or SAT 1240+), and a personal story that makes the committee believe you'll actually go out and serve. The interview is where it's won or lost.
App Required
Civic Leadership Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 15 · 📢 Results: mid-Jan
Non-Renewable
👥 ~3 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
One-time award; stackable with other K-State scholarships within cost-of-attendance limits. Winners also gain access to civic leadership activities and an Introduction to Leadership Concepts course.
📄
How to Apply
Submit your K-State admission application, then complete the Civic Leadership Scholarship application and submit a letter of recommendation by Dec 15. Finalists participate in an on-campus or virtual interview and recognition event in early February.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
A one-time award for your freshman year — ranked prizes of $4,000 (1st), $2,500 (2nd), and $2,000 (3rd). There's no stated GPA or test score minimum, which makes this one of the more open competitive awards at K-State. If your student has done meaningful community work, this is worth the application time. Winners also join civic leadership programming and a leadership course.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High school seniors who have built something — a community program, a lasting initiative, a project with real impact on the people around them. No minimum GPA or test score is listed, making this one of the more accessible competitive awards for students whose strength is service over scores. Three finalists are selected: first place ($4,000), second place ($2,500), third place ($2,000).
App Required
Presidential Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 15 · 📢 Results: mid-Jan
✓ Renews (3.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.9+ GPA✎ ~32 ACT✎ ~1450 SAT👥 ~2 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable up to cost of attendance. Recipients also gain access to K-State's Assistant Dean for Prestigious Scholarships to pursue Truman Scholarships and other national awards.
📄
How to Apply
Submit your K-State admission application, then complete the Presidential Scholarship application by Dec 15. Finalists participate in an on-campus or virtual interview and recognition event in early February. Only two scholarships are awarded each year.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
K-State's most prestigious award — $20,000/year, $80,000 total. Only two are given each year, making this one of the most selective scholarships in the state. The renewal GPA is 3.5 (higher than most K-State awards), so recipients need to stay sharp academically. Winners also get a direct line to support for national scholarships like the Truman.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Two students per year — genuinely among the top academic and leadership profiles in the entire applicant pool. Expect ACT 32+ (or SAT 1450+), a 3.85+ best GPA, and an extracurricular record that demonstrates real impact, not just participation. The interview is the deciding factor.
App Required
Edgerley-Franklin Leadership Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 15 · 📢 Results: mid-Jan
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA👥 ~5 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with other K-State awards up to cost-of-attendance; this scholarship also connects students to the Leadership Scholars Program with exclusive academic and social experiences.
📄
How to Apply
Submit your K-State admission application first, then complete the Edgerley-Franklin Leadership Scholarship application (including a letter of recommendation) by Dec 15. Finalists are invited to an on-campus interview and recognition event in early February.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
$5,000/year, $20,000 total over four years. What sets this one apart is the Leadership Scholars Program membership that comes with it — think networking, mentorship, and experiences beyond the classroom. Low-income and first-gen students are explicitly welcomed, making this a standout opportunity for families navigating this process for the first time.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Up to five students per year — typically high school seniors with a 3.5+ best GPA and a genuine track record of addressing challenges in their communities. Low-income and first-generation applicants are explicitly encouraged. Strong essays and interview performance carry significant weight.
App Required
K-State First Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb 1
Non-Renewable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with other scholarships within cost-of-attendance limits — think of it as a bonus layer on top of any general university award.
📄
How to Apply
First-generation students submit a short application through K-State First/First-Gen Initiatives. Apply early — funding is limited and early applicants have the strongest shot.
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Strategic Detail
A one-time award of $1,000–$2,000 exclusively for first-generation students. It's not huge, but combined with other K-State money it adds real value — and the application is short. Apply by Feb 1 for the best shot.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
First-generation college students who apply early and demonstrate engagement with the K-State First community. Financial need is a factor in selection.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Competitive Scholarship FAQs
What makes these “competitive”?
They require essays, recommendations, and proof of leadership/service—selection is holistic, not just GPA.
Are they worth the extra effort?
Yes. They can cover substantial costs and may stack with other aid (subject to cost-of-attendance limits).
How to improve the odds?
Apply by the priority date, submit specific impact-focused essays, and include detailed leadership outcomes.
Sources:
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/additional-opportunities/freshman/competitive/presidential-scholarship.html
https://cba.k-state.edu/success/paying-for-college/VanierBestofKS.html
https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/tuition-scholarships-financial-aid/scholarships/salina-competitive/
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/additional-opportunities/freshman/competitive/edgerley-franklin-leadership-scholarship.html
https://ksufoundation.org/impact/campus-impact/proud-to-be-first/
https://www.k-state.edu/firstgen/initiatives/proud-scholarships.html
https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/deadlines.html
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/renewal-requirements/
Hidden Gem Scholarships
Kansas State has a surprising number of smaller, targeted awards—departmental funds, ensemble stipends, first-generation and multicultural support, alumni-connected awards, and ROTC packages. Many are surfaced through the K-State Scholarship Network (KSN) application and can stack with other K-State awards to meaningfully cut costs.
App Required
First-Generation Student Awards
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
Non-Renewable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with most other awards, subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via K-State Scholarship Network (KSN); FAFSA and additional materials may be required.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: First-in-family freshmen who finish KSN early and file FAFSA on time.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Diversity/Multicultural Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
✓ Renews
$500–$2,500/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Often stackable with KSN, ensemble, and merit awards.
📄
How to Apply
Short KSN application and/or interview; involvement in campus orgs/mentoring often considered.
🎤 Interview
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students active in multicultural orgs or campus leadership.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Marching Band / Music Ensemble Awards
📅 Deadline: Program-set; auditions Dec–Feb typical
✓ Renews
$500–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with KSN, merit, and departmental awards.
📄
How to Apply
Audition required for band/orchestra/choir or program nomination.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Music majors and non-majors who commit to rehearsals, performances, and leadership.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
ROTC Scholarships
📅 Deadline: National windows Oct–Jan (varies)
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full tuition/stipend
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with KSN and other department scholarships up to full COA.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through national Army or Air Force ROTC; document fitness, leadership, and academics.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Military-committed students with strong academics, leadership, service, and fitness.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
College/Departmental Awards
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
✓ Renews
$500–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Departmental/KSN awards often stack with other aid.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via KSN and/or your department; may require portfolio, nomination, or interview.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with strong engagement/grades and major-related activities.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Alumni Legacy Awards
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
✓ Renews
$500–$1,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable if GPA maintained; check current rules.
📄
How to Apply
Submit KSN app early and provide documentation of alumni parent/grandparent.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Children/grandchildren of K-State grads who are in good academic standing.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Hidden Gem Scholarship FAQs
Where do we find most of these?
Start with the K-State Scholarship Network (KSN). Complete the general application and any follow-up opportunities recommended by your college or department.
Do these stack with automatic or competitive awards?
Often, yes. Departmental, ensemble, and legacy/diversity awards frequently stack unless the terms say otherwise. Always check each award’s stacking rules.
What timeline should seniors follow?
Open KSN in the fall, file the FAFSA early, and aim for KSN’s priority date around March 1. Audition-based and ROTC timelines can run earlier—plan ahead.
Who tends to win these?
Students who participate actively (ensembles, orgs, leadership), keep grades up, and submit complete KSN materials before the priority date.
Sources:
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/ksn/
https://www.k-state.edu/mtd/academics/music/auditions/
https://ksufoundation.org/impact/campus-impact/proud-to-be-first/
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/continuing-students/
https://www.k-state.com/participate/futurewildcats/scholarships/legacyscholarship.php
https://ksufoundation.org/impact/campus-impact/diversity-and-inclusion/
https://k-state.academicworks.com/
https://www.k-state.edu/mtd/academics/music/orchestra/scholarship-auditions.html
https://art.ksu.edu/student-success/scholarships/scholarships-current-sudents.html
🎖 University Honors Program at Kansas State University
Kansas State’s University Honors Program (UHP) is not automatic—students must apply. Incoming Wildcats can indicate interest on the main university application to unlock the Honors item in the portal. Current and transfer students submit a short UHP application. The program is built for curious, high-impact students who want smaller seminars, faculty mentoring, and space for research and projects.
Application details
• Incoming students: Answer “Yes” to the Honors question on the K-State application to activate the UHP item in your portal.
• Current/transfer students: Submit the UHP form with a 300–500 word essay and one reference; a 3.5+ GPA is typically expected.
• UHP is a self-apply program—no automatic invitations, even for top GPAs.
Honors Perks That Matter
• Priority enrollment each term.
• Small, discussion-driven seminars and tailored advising.
• Capstone/honors project plus co-curricular experiences that impress grad schools and employers.
• Faculty mentorship and early research opportunities.
What a Typical K-State Honors Student Looks Like
- Consistent A/A- work with rigorous coursework; current/transfer students usually hold a 3.5+ college GPA.
- Purposeful involvement—leadership, service, or research experience with clear motivation in the short essay.
- Incoming first-years: Strong academics; no fixed cutoff, but many successful students show about a 3.75 GPA and ACT 28+ (optional).
App Required
Robert E. Campbell Scholarship (UHP)
📅 Deadline: Dec 15 · 📢 Results: mid-Jan
✓ Renews (3.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with general university merit awards and most KSN awards, subject to cost-of-attendance cap. This award layers nicely on top of the Kansas Resident Awards grid for in-state students.
📄
How to Apply
Three steps: (1) Submit K-State admission application. (2) Submit the University Honors Program application. (3) Complete the Robert E. Campbell Scholarship application by Dec 15. All three are required — missing any one disqualifies you.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$6,000/year ($3,000/semester), $24,000 total. This is K-State's flagship Honors scholarship — a select cohort of scholars who live together, lead together, and push each other academically. The renewal GPA is 3.5 (not the typical 3.0), so this award is designed for students who plan to keep their foot on the gas. First-year scholars live in Honors housing in Strong Complex.
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Who Actually Wins
Most winners: High-achieving incoming freshmen or transfers with a 3.5+ best GPA who are genuinely engaged in honors academics, campus leadership, and community. Campbell Scholars live together in Honors housing during their first year — so a collaborative, community-minded personality matters as much as grades.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Honors FAQs
Is Honors automatic?
No. Students must opt in and apply (incoming via the admission portal; current/transfer via the UHP form).
Are there fixed GPA/test cutoffs?
No universal cutoff. A strong record helps; tests are optional. Current/transfer students should have a 3.5+ college GPA.
Any deadlines tied to money?
Yes. Robert E. Campbell Scholarship due Dec 15. Also complete your K-State Scholarship Network (KSN) profile by Mar 15 to surface additional opportunities.
Sources:
https://www.k-state.edu/leadership/university-honors-program/about/requirements/
https://www.k-state.edu/leadership/university-honors-program/application/
https://apply2.ksu.edu/register/current_honors
https://www.k-state.edu/leadership/university-honors-program/archive/enrollment.html
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/additional-opportunities/freshman/competitive/robert-e-campbell-scholarship.html
https://housing.k-state.edu/living-options/honors-house/
https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/scholarships/future-students/priority-dates.html
⭐ College Specialties
Kansas State University stands out as a top-tier public land-grant institution—now classified as an R1 research university—with deep roots in agriculture, engineering, and service-oriented innovation. It’s known for hands-on programs where students engage in real-world labs, outdoor research, and technology-driven learning that truly makes a difference on campus and beyond. Whether your student is tinkering with robotics, studying at the Biosecurity Research Institute, or learning drone journalism, K-State blends opportunity, access, and impact.
Flagship Program: College of Agriculture (Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering)
As the first land-grant college in Kansas, K-State remains a statewide leader in agricultural science, closely integrated with its Extension network. The College of Agriculture—especially its agricultural and biosystems engineering programs—is nationally recognized for advancing food systems, biosafety, and sustainability.
Why it matters: Combines cutting-edge labs, statewide field stations, and real-world impact through K-State Research & Extension.
- Carl R. Ice College of Engineering (Engineering programs) — Ranked among the top 100 undergraduate engineering schools in the U.S.
- Robotics — Recognized in the U.S., ranked around #159 for robotics nationally (EduRank)
- Graduate programs — National acclaim in agricultural & biological engineering, education, computer science, public administration, and communication sciences & disorders (U.S. News & World Report, 2025)
- Student Experience & Support — Ranked extremely high for “friendliest” (#1), “happiest” (#2), “best quality of life” (#2), and “best student support and counseling services” (#2) by The Princeton Review, 2025
✨ Final Thoughts
Kansas State is more than just a land-grant university with strong programs — it’s a place where first-gen families can find real opportunities to lower the cost of college.
Between automatic merit, regional waivers like MSEP, and a supportive Honors Program, there are multiple pathways to make K-State both affordable and rewarding.
If your student is ready to dive into a close-knit campus with big-school resources, this guide should give you the clarity you need to map out next steps with confidence.
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