WSU Tech will cover tuition for up to five general education classes for new students who enroll for the spring 2027 semester.
The school, formally known as Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology, announced the scholarship, called Freshman 15, on Oct. 29. It covers up to 15 credit hours of eligible general education courses. A typical course is three credit hours.
At WSU Tech's current general education tuition rate of $139 per credit hour, according to the school's tuition and fees page, the scholarship could save a qualifying student up to $2,085 in tuition. That calculation is based on the listed 2026-27 rate.
"We know there are people in our community who want to start college but keep putting it off. For some, it's the cost. For others, it's not knowing what to study," said Dr. Sheree Utash, president of WSU Tech. "We don't want either one to be the reason someone waits. Freshman 15 gives them a way to start this January with tuition covered and find their direction along the way."
More than 40 courses are eligible. They include English Composition I, General Psychology, Public Speaking, College Algebra, Medical Terminology, Spanish I and Microeconomics, according to WSU Tech.
Credits can transfer
Many of the courses are approved through the Kansas Board of Regents Systemwide Transfer program. That means credits earned at WSU Tech can transfer to Kansas public colleges and universities that offer equivalent courses, according to WSU Tech.
Students interested in a Wichita State University degree can use the Shocker Pathway program. That partnership lets students begin general education courses at WSU Tech and earn up to 50 transfer credits. After completing an additional 15 credit hours at Wichita State, students earn an Associate of Arts degree from WSU, according to the school's Shocker Pathway page.
Students do not need to pick a major before enrolling. WSU Tech said they can use credits to complete general education requirements, prepare for a technical program, continue toward a degree at WSU Tech or build a foundation for transferring to a university.
Who qualifies
The full scholarship terms require a new adult student to begin an eligible degree or credential program in spring 2027. The number of scholarships is limited, though WSU Tech has not said how many are available.
To qualify, students must be new to WSU Tech as an adult student and enroll in at least six credit hours. Students who took WSU Tech classes while in high school may still qualify. The scholarship covers tuition only, not books, supplies or fees.
WSU Tech said additional financial aid requirements apply. Full eligibility details are available on WSU Tech's Freshman 15 page.
Classes start in January. WSU Tech has not announced an application deadline, but said a scholarship application is the first step, after which an advisor will help students choose courses and complete enrollment.
