College Access Program (CAP) Grant

The College Access Program Grant helps financially needy Kentucky undergraduates attend eligible public or private colleges, technical schools, and trade schools. Residency alone does not produce an automatic award: KHEAA uses the FAFSA to determine need and requires study toward an eligible first certificate or degree. The participating-school list is extensive, but students should confirm their institution before enrolling.

For 2026–27, KHEAA lists maximum awards of up to $2,500 at a two-year school and $5,300 at a four-year institution. These are caps, not a promise of full payment: funding is limited and awards are made according to FAFSA completion date. Students should apply early, even before a final bill arrives, and confirm that their college appears on the participating-school list.

There is no separate CAP form: the FAFSA for the relevant year is the application. Review residency, program, and enrollment status with the campus aid office, which may request documentation and must certify eligibility. The published 2026 award-cycle deadline was June 15, 2026, which has passed as of October 13. For 2027–28, prepare to file when FAFSA opens on October 1, 2026, and confirm the new CAP date with KHEAA.

Before accepting an aid package, request a term-by-term breakdown: CAP coordinates with other aid under program rules and cannot exceed the recognized cost of attendance. Confirm how the award is divided, whether it renews, and what happens if you change schools or enrollment load. If FAFSA processing is late, do not count on CAP until the portal and college office show a confirmed amount.

Ask the financial-aid office for a written term-by-term estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, books, and other costs. Keep the award letter, records, and any service agreement. If your studies, residence, or course load change, contact the administrator before that decision affects your aid.

Official program information and application