KC Scholars - Adult Learners
KC Scholars Adult Learner Scholarship
It’s never too late to finish your degree.
Baker University is proud to partner with KC Scholars / Great Jobs KC to offer scholarships that help adult learners in the Kansas City region return to college, complete a degree, and open new career opportunities.
With the Adult Learner Scholarship, eligible students can receive up to $25,000 toward a college degree at a KC Scholars Network institution—including Baker University. Funding is paid directly to the college and can be used for full‑time or part‑time enrollment.
What Is the Adult Learner Scholarship?
KC Scholars’ Adult Learner Scholarship is designed for adults who:
- Are 24 or older when they (re)start college
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have some college and no bachelor’s degree or an associate degree but not a bachelor’s degree
- Live in one of six counties in the Kansas City area
The scholarship:
- Provides up to $12,500 per year, based on:
- Number of terms enrolled during the academic year
- Enrollment status each term (full‑time or part‑time)
- Institution of enrollment
- Is renewable for up to six years, with a maximum total award of $25,000
- Is paid directly to your college or university
To remain eligible once enrolled, students must:
- Stay continuously enrolled (full‑time or part‑time)
- Meet KC Scholars’ minimum annual requirements
- Complete a short renewal application each year to confirm continued eligibility
Who Is Eligible?
To apply for the Adult Learner Scholarship, you must:
- Be 24 years or older at the time you enroll in college
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Live in one of six eligible counties
- Kansas: Wyandotte, Johnson
- Missouri: Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte
- Meet low‑ or modest‑income guidelines
- KC Scholars uses a FAFSA Student Aid Index (SAI) of 12,000 or less as the current income measure
- Not have previously earned a bachelor’s degree
- Not have previously received a KC Scholars Traditional or Adult Learner scholarship payment
- Be planning to attend a college or university in the Great Jobs KC – KC Scholars Scholarship Program network
Important:
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is not required to apply.
- You may enroll full‑time or part‑time and take online or on‑ground courses, depending on your chosen institution.
For the full list of requirements and the latest details, visit the KC Scholars website.
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When Can I Apply?
Want a reminder when the next application opens?
Complete the KC Scholars Interest Form to stay updated on deadlines and requirements.
2026 Award Cycle
- Application: Closed
- Award notifications: Emailed on February 13, 2026
- Funding begins: Fall 2026 term
2027 Award Cycle
- Application window:
- Opens: November 4, 2026 at 8 a.m.
- Closes: December 4, 2026 at 5 p.m.
- Awards Day: February 12, 2027
Why Choose Baker as Your KC Scholars School?
As a member of the KC Scholars Network of Colleges and Universities, Baker University offers degree programs built for working adults in the Kansas City area and beyond.
Flexible Programs That Fit Your Life
Baker’s adult and online programs are designed so you can:
Take one course at a time, so you can focus and succeed
Attend one night a week on ground or fully online, depending on your program
Log in from home, work, or anywhere with internet access
Move through accelerated courses that keep you on track to finish faster
Designed for Working Adults
We know you’re balancing family, work, and school. Our programs help you:
Apply what you learn immediately on the job
Build skills that meet real‑world employer needs
Connect with classmates who are also working professionals
Get guidance from faculty with industry experience
Proven Outcomes & Strong Support
Baker graduates are known for strong career outcomes and competitive salaries, and we’re committed to walking with you from enrollment to graduation.
As a Baker student, you’ll have access to:
Personalized academic advising to plan your degree path
Career services that support your job search and advancement
A supportive, tight‑knit community of faculty, staff, and peers who want you to succeed
How the Scholarship and Baker Work Together
When you choose Baker University and receive the Adult Learner Scholarship:
- You apply through the KC Scholars / Great Jobs KC portal during the application window.
- KC Scholars selects awardees and announces awards on the posted Awards Day.
- Funds are sent directly to Baker and applied to your eligible tuition and fees.
- You work with a Baker enrollment advisor to:
- Choose the right degree program for your goals
- Plan a schedule that fits your work and family life
- Understand how your scholarship and other aid work together
KC Scholars funding can be combined with other forms of financial aid, grants, and discounts, subject to eligibility and federal guidelines.