The Hilltopper Guarantee

Be a Full-Time, First-Time Freshman

Be a Kentucky Resident

Receive both a Pell Grant and a Kentucky College Access Program Grant

Have a High School GPA of 3.0 or Above

How Do I Apply?

No separate application for the Hilltopper Guarantee is required. The scholarship will be awarded automatically to admitted students who qualify. Awards will be offered until funds have been exhausted.

What is the Scholarship Amount?

The Hilltopper Guarantee award amount will vary by student and is determined by in-state tuition minus, federal, state, and institutional gift aid. Student loans are not included in the Hilltopper Guarantee, so student loans can still be used to pay for housing, meals, books, or other college expenses.

What if I Don’t Qualify for Pell Grants?

WKU has made a series of bold changes to our scholarship program that reduce cost and increase access. More than 80% of incoming freshmen receive a merit scholarship from WKU. The Hilltopper Guarantee is our pledge to close the gap for students who may not otherwise be able to attend a four-year college. Even if you don’t receive Pell Grants, you can check out which scholarships you can receive at WKU at wku.edu/scholarship.

How Can I Learn More?

You can get more information on affording college and view a list of scholarships at wku.edu/scholarship. You can also contact the WKU Office of Student Financial Assistance at fa.help@wku.edu or (270) 745-2755.