Wichita State University has created a scholarship and support network to help those nearest to its campus. The Shocker Neighborhood Commitment provides funding to make college more affordable and attainable for recent high school graduates living in the Shocker Neighborhood.

The scholarship provides last-dollar funding, which means it will cover the unmet need of qualified students. It is available to students who reside between Oliver Street and Interstate 135 to the east and west, and Kansas Highway 96 and Central Avenue to the north and south.

All recipients will also receive academic support and career planning services from one or more of the university's signature support programs.

To be eligible for participation in the Shocker Neighborhood Commitment, students must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
• Be a Sedgwick County, Kansas resident living in the Shocker Neighborhood at the time of application to Wichita State University.
• Be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant.
• Be admitted for fall as a first-time freshman by Dec. 11 (graduated high school during 2020-2021 academic year).
• Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by Dec. 1 for priority consideration, with a final deadline of Feb. 1
• Minimum 2.5 high school GPA.
• Enroll full-time (complete 24-30 hours each academic year in the fall/spring/summer semesters) in a baccalaureate degree program.

The Shocker Neighborhood Commitment is renewable for four years if the student is able to meet the above requirements.

“Wichita State is proud to embark in this intentional effort to provide increased access to and opportunity in higher education to our neighbors in Shocker Neighborhood,” said Kaye Monk-Morgan, interim vice president for regional engagement and economic development at Wichita State. “This scholarship, coupled with support services that we know increase retention and graduation rates, is intended to move the needle on outcomes that will make our community stronger.”

For students who want to learn more about Wichita State’s promise to our neighbors, visit the Shocker Neighborhood Commitment webpage or contact the Office of Financial Aid.