Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) is breaking new ground in college affordability with the launch of a new highly competitive scholarship model beginning in Fall 2026, which provides financial support valued between $1,000 and $9,000 for every in-state, on-campus, full-time freshman.
Through increased merit awards and the introduction of the Promise Award, EKU becomes the only university in the Commonwealth to offer a scholarship for every Kentucky freshman.
“We have a longstanding commitment to Kentucky families, particularly those who are first-generation or from our service region,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “As a whole, our scholarship model provides more aid to more Kentucky students than any other comprehensive regional university.”
This new model reinforces EKU’s commitment to both affordability and access, removing financial barriers and creating new pathways to opportunity. With these enhancements, EKU’s scholarship offerings will be among the most competitive in the state.
“While out in our communities, we talked to students and families about managing the cost of higher education, and their feedback was clear,” said Dan Hendrickson, EKU chief enrollment and marketing officer. “We have to provide a scholarship model that is easy to understand, focuses on making college more affordable and serves EKU students and our service region—and that is what we are announcing today.”
Prospective students can easily see which scholarship they qualify for based on their high school GPA and optional test scores. This allows students and families to make their college decision with clarity and confidence. The highest scholarship, called the Regent’s Award, provides $9,000 for incoming freshmen with a 3.8 or higher GPA and a 28 or higher ACT score.
“We continue to find innovative ways to remove barriers to higher education for our students,” said Tanlee Wasson, EKU senior vice president of Student Success, Engagement, and Opportunity. “We’re excited to roll out the Eastern Experience scholarships, reflecting our role as Kentucky’s School of Opportunity.”
About 85% of students at EKU are Kentucky residents. First-generation college students make up more than 50% of EKU’s freshman class, and most EKU students receive some form of financial aid. EKU’s new scholarship model puts affordability and access to higher education at the forefront for Kentucky students.
Students are encouraged to apply and commit to EKU in order to secure their award, as scholarships are guaranteed while funds last. Additional information about award amounts and eligibility for EKU’s new Eastern Experience scholarship model is available at go.eku.edu/merit.
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