Graduate holds confetti stick at commencement

Apply for a Foundation Scholarship

The Barton Community College Foundation has updated the scholarship application process. The Foundation selects scholarship recipients in June. Applications received by March 15 will have first preference.

Using Scholarship Manager

  1. Apply to Barton and log in to the Barton Portal.
  2. Find the Financial Aid card.
  3. Navigate to the Scholarship Manager link.
    - You will see all institutional scholarships for which you may be eligible, along with the Barton Community College Foundation Scholarship Application.
  4. Click the “Start Application” button to begin.
    - The system will save your progress. If you log out before submitting, the button will change to “Continue Application” when you return.
  5. Answer the questions.
    - Some answers will pre-fill from your application or student information.
  6. Write a short essay responding to the following prompt:
    - “Please tell us why you deserve this scholarship. Tell us about yourself, aspirations, circumstances, and any other information you think we should consider in our award process.”
    - Minimum: 150 words. Maximum: 300 words.
  7. Once completed, click the “Review and Submit” button on the final page. Review your responses carefully before submitting.

Awarding Process

  1. Your application will be submitted to all scholarships for which you meet eligibility requirements.
  2. The scholarship committee will begin reviewing applications starting March 15 and will make awards based on donor requirements. Notifications will be sent as awards are made, with the final awards issued by mid-September.
  3. Awardees will be notified via their Barton email address with details of the award and any acceptance requirements.
  4. To receive the scholarship, you must accept the award and submit a thank-you note to the Foundation within the specified timeline.

In accordance with Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) regulations, receiving an athletic scholarship may impact your eligibility for a Barton Foundation scholarship.

If you have any questions about your scholarship eligibility, please contact the Foundation Office at (620) 786-1136.

Have you applied for Federal Financial Aid? Visit the Financial Aid webpage for more details. 

Scholarship Application Tips and Tricks

Review the information below to help with scholarship applications!

Finding Scholarships
Finding Scholarships

Start researching scholarships as early as possible. Deadlines vary, and you don’t want to miss opportunities. Explore these sources:

  • Your intended community or technical college, trade school, or 4-year college or university
  • Businesses in your intended industry (examples: local manufacturers for manufacturing careers or hospitals and their foundations for healthcare fields)
  • Local community foundations
  • Non-profits and civic organizations (examples: Rotary Club, Lions Club, Optimists Club) in your area
  • Scholarship search websites such as Fastweb, College Board, or scholarships.com
  • Your school counselor
Organizing Information
Organizing Information

Keep a file of the documents and details commonly required for scholarship applications:

  • High school transcript
  • ACT/SAT scores
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Resume
  • A list of your extracurricular activities and achievements
  • A draft essay
Write a Draft Essay
Write a Draft Essay

Many scholarships require essays with similar themes. Having a draft prepared can streamline the application process while allowing for personalization. Consider these tips:

  • Highlight achievements, skills, and qualities that make you a strong candidate.
  • Be specific about accomplishments, such as academic success, leadership roles, community service, or overcoming challenges.
  • Explain how the scholarship will help you achieve your long-term goals.
  • Clearly articulate your aspirations and how you plan to make a positive impact in your community or field of study.
  • Share personal stories or experiences that shaped you but maintain a positive and focused tone.
  • Avoid framing your story as a complaint or overly focusing on hardships. Instead, highlight personal growth and the lessons you've learned from challenges.
  • Proofread for grammar, spelling, and flow.
  • Have a teacher, mentor, or friend review your essay for clarity and impact.
  • Ensure your essay reflects your authentic voice; avoid AI-generated content, as it may lack originality.
Stay Positive and Persistent
Stay Positive and Persistent

Scholarship applications can be competitive, and rejection is common. Don’t get discouraged - keep applying for opportunities during high school and throughout college.