Kansas students and adults considering college will soon have a special opportunity to apply for free to dozens of institutions across the state.

Kansas Apply Free Days will be held October 6–8, 2025, giving all Kansas residents—regardless of age or income—the chance to apply at no cost to any of the state’s 7 public universities, 19 community colleges, 6 technical colleges, and 21 private institutions that are members of the Kansas Independent College Association.

During these three days, eligible applicants can submit free applications for certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree programs. Graduate or mid-degree program applications are not included.

Students are encouraged to prepare their applications in advance, but they must wait until Monday, October 6 to submit in order to qualify for the waived fees. Only applications submitted between October 6 and 8 will be free. Any sent before or after that window will not be eligible for refunds.

Applicants using the Common Application should contact the admissions office of their chosen schools or review the official Apply Free Days Application Instructions for details.

All Kansas residents applying to undergraduate programs are eligible, including: •&nbsp;&nbsp;First-time freshmen •&nbsp;&nbsp;Transfer students •&nbsp; Returning students •&nbsp;&nbsp;Students seeking a second bachelor’s degree

Applicants for graduate programs are not eligible.

Some institutions—including Pittsburg State University, Washburn University, and Emporia State University—and all Kansas community colleges already offer free applications year-round.

After applying, students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. They can also explore options through the Kansas State Scholarship Program for additional aid opportunities.

Kansas Apply Free Days are part of the broader Apply Kansas Month, a statewide effort each October to help high school seniors complete applications and take the next step in their education.

State officials say the program aims to reverse a decade-long decline in college attendance. In 2021, only 59.5% of Kansas high school graduates pursued higher education, and fewer than half completed a FAFSA—a key indicator of college enrollment.

By removing application fees, organizers hope to make higher education more accessible and encourage Kansans to pursue the degrees or technical training needed to thrive in today’s workforce.

Additional resources, flyers, and social media materials are available online through the Kansas Apply Free Days campaign.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759719123759.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas students and adults considering college will soon have a special opportunity to apply for free to dozens of institutions across the state.Kansas Apply Free Days will be held October 6–8, 2025, giving all Kansas residents—regardless of age or income—the chance to apply at no cost to any of the state’s 7 public universities, 19 community colleges, 6 technical colleges, and 21 private institutions that are members of the Kansas Independent College Association.During these three days, eligible applicants can submit free applications for certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree programs. Graduate or mid-degree program applications are not included.<h2>How to Apply</h2>Students are encouraged to prepare their applications in advance, but they must wait until Monday, October 6 to submit in order to qualify for the waived fees. Only applications submitted between October 6 and 8 will be free. Any sent before or after that window will not be eligible for refunds.Applicants using the Common Application should contact the admissions office of their chosen schools or review the official Apply Free Days Application Instructions for details.<h2>Who Is Eligible</h2>All Kansas residents applying to undergraduate programs are eligible, including: •&nbsp;&nbsp;First-time freshmen •&nbsp;&nbsp;Transfer students •&nbsp; Returning students •&nbsp;&nbsp;Students seeking a second bachelor’s degreeApplicants for graduate programs are not eligible.Some institutions—including Pittsburg State University, Washburn University, and Emporia State University—and all Kansas community colleges already offer free applications year-round.<h2>Next Steps</h2>After applying, students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. They can also explore options through the Kansas State Scholarship Program for additional aid opportunities.<h2>Encouraging Higher Education</h2>Kansas Apply Free Days are part of the broader Apply Kansas Month, a statewide effort each October to help high school seniors complete applications and take the next step in their education.State officials say the program aims to reverse a decade-long decline in college attendance. In 2021, only 59.5% of Kansas high school graduates pursued higher education, and fewer than half completed a FAFSA—a key indicator of college enrollment.By removing application fees, organizers hope to make higher education more accessible and encourage Kansans to pursue the degrees or technical training needed to thrive in today’s workforce.Additional resources, flyers, and social media materials are available online through the Kansas Apply Free Days campaign.

Kansas apply free days begin today

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has announced that all public school districts and many private schools across the state will participate in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs for the 2025-2026 academic year.

These federal programs provide free or reduced-price meals to eligible students, helping ensure that Kansas children receive nutritious meals during the school day regardless of family income.

Households may apply for benefits at any time during the school year. Application forms and information letters are available through each school district or private school, and additional copies can be obtained from the principal’s office. For applications to be approved, they must include all required eligibility information as outlined in the application instructions.

Children from households that receive Food Assistance, Temporary Assistance for Families (TAF), or benefits through the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) are automatically eligible for free meals. These households will be notified by their school unless they choose to decline benefits. If a household does not receive a notification, they should submit an application with the required case number and an adult signature.

Children participating in the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program or receiving certain Medicaid benefits may also qualify. Notifications will be sent to households approved under Medicaid guidelines.

Other eligible groups include children in the Head Start Program, the Migrant Education Program, or those identified as homeless or runaway by the district’s liaison. Foster children under state or court custody also automatically qualify for free meals, although eligibility does not extend to other household members unless a complete application is submitted listing all residents.

For families not participating in assistance programs, eligibility is determined based on income and household size. Applications must include all household members, current income, sources of income, and the last four digits of the Social Security number of the adult who signs the application (or a statement if no SSN is available).

All applications are reviewed by a designated school official. Parents who disagree with the eligibility determination may appeal the decision informally or request a formal hearing. Contact your local school district or private school for hearing information.

Households are encouraged to report changes in employment or household size, which may affect eligibility during the year.

For more information, contact your local school district or visit the Kansas State Department of Education website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578438949499.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has announced that all public school districts and many private schools across the state will participate in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs for the 2025-2026 academic year.These federal programs provide free or reduced-price meals to eligible students, helping ensure that Kansas children receive nutritious meals during the school day regardless of family income.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753198594863.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Households may apply for benefits at any time during the school year. Application forms and information letters are available through each school district or private school, and additional copies can be obtained from the principal’s office. For applications to be approved, they must include all required eligibility information as outlined in the application instructions.Children from households that receive Food Assistance, Temporary Assistance for Families (TAF), or benefits through the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) are automatically eligible for free meals. These households will be notified by their school unless they choose to decline benefits. If a household does not receive a notification, they should submit an application with the required case number and an adult signature.Children participating in the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program or receiving certain Medicaid benefits may also qualify. Notifications will be sent to households approved under Medicaid guidelines.Other eligible groups include children in the Head Start Program, the Migrant Education Program, or those identified as homeless or runaway by the district’s liaison. Foster children under state or court custody also automatically qualify for free meals, although eligibility does not extend to other household members unless a complete application is submitted listing all residents.For families not participating in assistance programs, eligibility is determined based on income and household size. Applications must include all household members, current income, sources of income, and the last four digits of the Social Security number of the adult who signs the application (or a statement if no SSN is available).All applications are reviewed by a designated school official. Parents who disagree with the eligibility determination may appeal the decision informally or request a formal hearing. Contact your local school district or private school for hearing information.Households are encouraged to report changes in employment or household size, which may affect eligibility during the year.For more information, contact your local school district or visit the Kansas State Department of Education website.

Reduced price and free school meals available for Kansas students

DEANA CORE College of Agriculture, Kansas State University&nbsp;

High school seniors and college students can learn about career opportunities in precision agriculture, data analysis and variable rate application equipment during Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/educational-workshops/precision-agriculture-workshop/">Smart Farm Challenge Precision Agriculture Workshop</a>&nbsp;from July 27-29.

Workshop participants will engage in hands-on activities, including flying drones, learning about soil and plant sensors, and collecting field data. There will also be opportunities for participants to engage with industry partners to connect what they are learning to the wide range of precision agriculture career fields.

As many as 30 participants will be learning from faculty at the agronomy facilities and farms on the Manhattan campus, including all meals and housing in the residence halls.

Students of any skill level or familiarity with precision agriculture and agronomy are welcome to attend. The cost of the workshop is $50. Registration is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/educational-workshops/precision-agriculture-workshop/">online</a>&nbsp;and will close on July 11 or when it's full.

Please contact Deana Core at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dcore@k-state.edu">dcore@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-532-5736 for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750207754213.png" alt="Students can learn about precision ag career opportunities and get hands-on experience guided by industry experts during the Smart Farm Challenge Precision Agriculture Workshop from July 27-29.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/educational-workshops/precision-agriculture-workshop/">Registration is open now</a>. |&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Students can learn about precision ag career opportunities and get hands-on experience guided by industry experts during the Smart Farm Challenge Precision Agriculture Workshop from July 27-29.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/educational-workshops/precision-agriculture-workshop/">Registration is open now</a>. |&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>DEANA CORE College of Agriculture, Kansas State University&nbsp;High school seniors and college students can learn about career opportunities in precision agriculture, data analysis and variable rate application equipment during Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/educational-workshops/precision-agriculture-workshop/">Smart Farm Challenge Precision Agriculture Workshop</a>&nbsp;from July 27-29.Workshop participants will engage in hands-on activities, including flying drones, learning about soil and plant sensors, and collecting field data. There will also be opportunities for participants to engage with industry partners to connect what they are learning to the wide range of precision agriculture career fields.As many as 30 participants will be learning from faculty at the agronomy facilities and farms on the Manhattan campus, including all meals and housing in the residence halls.Students of any skill level or familiarity with precision agriculture and agronomy are welcome to attend. The cost of the workshop is $50. Registration is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/educational-workshops/precision-agriculture-workshop/">online</a>&nbsp;and will close on July 11 or when it's full.Please contact Deana Core at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dcore@k-state.edu">dcore@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-532-5736 for more information.

K-State conference to help high school seniors, college students explore careers in precision agriculture

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Board of Regents on Thursday approved tuition and fee rates for the upcoming fiscal year at the state’s six public universities, emphasizing a continued focus on affordability and student success.

“The Regents’ strategic plan emphasizes affordability for Kansas families and success for students in our institutions,” said KBOR Chair Carl Ice in a statement. “These tuition rates balance those priorities by keeping costs as low as possible while ensuring that state universities can continue to help students succeed in the classroom and in their careers after graduation.”

The decision aligns with the Board’s strategic plan, Building a Future, which aims to improve student outcomes while expanding access to financial aid. According to KBOR, on-time graduation rates at state universities have increased by 10.2 percentage points over the last five years. Entry-level wages for graduates have risen more than 15% since 2020, and the total amount of need-based aid, grants, and scholarships has grown by 28%.

Individual tuition rate changes for each university are expected to be posted on the Board’s website.

The six state universities governed by KBOR include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University.

You can view the&nbsp;c<a href="https://www.kansasregents.gov/resources/University_Tuition_Proposals_to_KBOR_05142025.pdf">omprehensive tables of approved tuition and fees&nbsp;at this link.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721922122827.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Board of Regents on Thursday approved tuition and fee rates for the upcoming fiscal year at the state’s six public universities, emphasizing a continued focus on affordability and student success.“The Regents’ strategic plan emphasizes affordability for Kansas families and success for students in our institutions,” said KBOR Chair Carl Ice in a statement. “These tuition rates balance those priorities by keeping costs as low as possible while ensuring that state universities can continue to help students succeed in the classroom and in their careers after graduation.”The decision aligns with the Board’s strategic plan, Building a Future, which aims to improve student outcomes while expanding access to financial aid. According to KBOR, on-time graduation rates at state universities have increased by 10.2 percentage points over the last five years. Entry-level wages for graduates have risen more than 15% since 2020, and the total amount of need-based aid, grants, and scholarships has grown by 28%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749751489597.png" alt="The table above shows resident undergraduate tuition increases at the state universities for full-time students per semester for Fiscal Year 2026" />
 <figcaption>The table above shows resident undergraduate tuition increases at the state universities for full-time students per semester for Fiscal Year 2026</figcaption>
 </figure>Individual tuition rate changes for each university are expected to be posted on the Board’s website.The six state universities governed by KBOR include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University.You can view the&nbsp;c<a href="https://www.kansasregents.gov/resources/University_Tuition_Proposals_to_KBOR_05142025.pdf">omprehensive tables of approved tuition and fees&nbsp;at this link.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

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