10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Kansas
Updated on:
February 9, 2026
Kansas residents don't have to break the bank to earn an online degree; many online colleges and universities in Kansas accept financial aid from FAFSA.
Online education can be convenient and sometimes less expensive than in-person programs, but it's often still too much for students to pay out-of-pocket. Many online colleges accept FAFSA, allowing students to cover higher education expenses. Students who complete the FAFSA can use federal, state, and institutional financial aid to cover the cost of their coursework.
Residents looking to study in-state have multiple options to find affordable online colleges in Kansas. Keep reading to discover online colleges that accept FAFSA in Kansas.
10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Kansas
By filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), students can access government and institutional financial aid options to help them pay for their online and distance education. Combined with attending a low-cost online college in Kansas, students may pay very little in tuition costs.
Several colleges and universities in Kansas offer online programs and accept FAFSA. Read on to discover our top picks, all of which hold accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
1. Baker University
Baker University is a private, nonprofit institution in Baldwin City, KS. It offers online associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in areas of study like:
- business administration
- criminal justice
- nursing
- psychology
Students completing online degree programs at Baker can use financial aid to help cover their tuition costs. To do this, enter the school's FAFSA code, 001903, into the FAFSA when prompted.
2. Central Christian College of Kansas
At Central Christian College of Kansas (CCCK), students will primarily find bachelor's degrees online, although the school does offer a few associate degrees and an online master's program. CCCK is a private, nonprofit Christian college in McPherson, KS.
Undergraduate online students can earn degrees in fields such as business administration, criminal justice, and health and human services, while the master's program is in strategic leadership. To apply for one of the school's many scholarships, students will need the code 001908.
3. Fort Hays State University
Over 200 online programs at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) are available as undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificate programs. Online learners will find majors in areas of study like computer science, education, healthcare, and humanities.
FHSU is a public university in Hays, KS. All students pay an in-state tuition rate for online programs, even if they live out-of-state. The university also offers multiple scholarships, and the FAFSA code is 001915.
4. Kansas State University
Kansas State University is a public research school in Manhattan, KS. It offers various online degrees from the associate to the doctoral level, as well as certificate programs, in fields such as:
- business administration
- education
- health services
- organizational leadership
K-State offers multiple scholarships and grants that could potentially eliminate tuition costs for Kansas residents. Students should use the code 001928 when they fill out their FAFSA.
5. Ottawa University
Students at Ottawa University can earn undergraduate and graduate degrees online. Ottawa University is a nonprofit Baptist institution in Ottawa, KS.
Distance learning programs are available in many areas of study, including business, communication, education, and healthcare management. To take advantage of the private university's scholarship opportunities, students will need the code 001937.
6. Southwestern College
The online education programs at Southwestern College include bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees as well as certificate programs. Students can find online programs in fields such as business administration, computer science, criminal justice, and education.
Southwestern College is a private, nonprofit, Christian college in Winfield, KS. Its FAFSA code is 001940 for students who want to pay for their online learning with financial aid.
7. Sterling College
Sterling College is a private, nonprofit, Christian school in Sterling, KS. It primarily offers individual online courses as well as online bachelor's degrees in areas of study like:
- business administration
- Christian thought
- history
- sports management
One master's degree is available online with a major in sports ministry. Online students can use financial aid to pay for their degree programs and courses, and the college's FAFSA code is 014991.
8. University of Kansas
At the University of Kansas (KU), students can pursue online undergraduate and graduate programs. The University of Kansas is a public research institution in Lawrence, KS.
Online students will find degrees available in fields such as anthropology, criminal justice, cybersecurity, and psychology. With the FAFSA code 001948, KU students can use financial aid to pay for their higher education.
9. Washburn University
Online programs at Washburn University include bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificate programs. These include disciplines like communication, health services, nursing, and psychology.
Washburn University is a public institution in Topeka, KS. It offers multiple scholarship and work-study programs, and its FAFSA code is 001949.
10. Wichita State University
Wichita State University is a public research school in Wichita, KS. It offers several undergraduate and graduate programs online in fields such as:
- business administration
- criminal justice
- healthcare administration
- organizational leadership
The school offers several scholarships, including the Shocker Promise Scholarship, a last-dollar scholarship for students with financial need. Students are automatically considered for this scholarship when they fill out their FAFSA with the school's code, 001950.
Applying for FAFSA in Kansas
By applying for FAFSA, you could qualify for financial aid that could significantly reduce your tuition fees. We've outlined the basics of what you need to know about applying for FAFSA below.
Eligibility
The eligibility requirements to file the FAFSA are very basic. To be eligible you must:
- be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- have or be in the process of earning a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED)
- be planning to attend an accredited college or university, either in-person or online, for the next school year
All prospective students who have financial need should fill out the FAFSA, even if you don't think you'll qualify for much aid.
Steps To Apply
To apply for FAFSA, you'll start by creating an account on StudentAid.gov. Then you'll need to gather your family's financial information, such as tax returns and bank statements.
If you're considered a dependent on your parents, you'll also need their Social Security numbers and birth dates. If you're married, you'll need this from your spouse.
Filling out the application takes about an hour. Partway through you'll be asked to input the Federal School Codes of any institutions you're applying to, even if you haven't been accepted and started the enrollment process yet.
After you've signed and submitted your FAFSA, you can track its status through your account. When your FAFSA has been processed, all the schools you listed will receive a copy.
Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Kansas
Kansas students can take advantage of several state-based financial aid programs that complement FAFSA and help make college more affordable. These programs support both traditional and online learners pursuing higher education.
Kansas Comprehensive Grant
The Kansas Comprehensive Grant provides need-based financial aid to eligible residents attending approved public or private institutions within the state. To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA and meet financial need requirements.
Online students at participating colleges can use this grant to help cover tuition and mandatory fees. The award amount varies depending on your institution type and available state funding.
Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant
The Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant supports students pursuing technical education programs that lead directly to employment in high-demand fields. To apply, you must complete the FAFSA and submit an application to the Kansas Board of Regents.
Online learners enrolled in eligible certificate or associate degree programs can use this funding for tuition and required materials. It’s a strong option for students looking to gain practical career skills while studying remotely.
Kansas Promise Scholarship
The Kansas Promise Scholarship offers last-dollar funding for students enrolled in programs that meet the state’s workforce needs, such as healthcare, IT, and education. Completing the FAFSA and a separate scholarship application are required.
Online students can receive aid for approved programs at participating Kansas community colleges and technical schools. In return, recipients agree to live and work in Kansas for two years after completing their education.
FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Kansas
FAFSA helps Kansas students unlock both federal and state financial aid for online and on-campus programs. Below are answers to common questions about costs and financial aid eligibility.
Can I Use Scholarships With FAFSA?
Yes, scholarships can be combined with FAFSA-based aid to further reduce college costs. Many institutional and need-based scholarships even require a completed FAFSA to confirm your financial eligibility.
Using both scholarships and FAFSA funds can significantly lower tuition and fees. Always report any scholarships received to your school’s financial aid office so your package can be adjusted accurately.
What Other Financial Aid Options Do I Have?
In addition to FAFSA, Kansas students can pursue private scholarships, grants, and low-interest student loans. State-funded programs like the Kansas Promise Scholarship and Comprehensive Grant provide further assistance for eligible residents.
Employer tuition reimbursement programs and military education benefits may also help offset costs. Exploring all of these opportunities ensures you can build a well-rounded financial aid plan.
How Can I Make an Online Degree More Affordable in Kansas?
Choosing an in-state public college is one of the best ways to reduce tuition costs in Kansas. Public institutions typically offer lower rates for residents and often participate in state financial aid programs.
Completing the FAFSA early maximizes your eligibility for both federal and state funding. You can also apply for local scholarships or community-based grants to further minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
Find an Affordable Online College in Kansas
Kansas residents can lower their college costs by combining FAFSA with state-funded scholarships and grants. Explore accredited online degree options on Learn.org to compare schools, discover aid programs, and find the right fit for your goals.