Table of Contents

1. Updated KEES Chart Now Includes SAT Information

2. Navigating the FAFSA

3. New Advantage Medical and Advantage Grad Loans Com …

4. Teacher Scholarship

5. Coffee with KHEAA

6. KY Saves 529 Quarterly $529 Account Drawing

7. ACT and SAT Spring 2026 National Test Dates

8. KHEAA Publications

Updated KEES Chart Now Includes SAT Information

The Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES) chart has been updated to include SAT score information, making it easier for students and families to understand how test scores can increase their KEES awards.

KEES is a merit-based scholarship that rewards Kentucky students for strong high school grades and qualifying test scores. Students earn KEES money each year of high school based on their GPA and may also earn bonus awards for ACT, SAT, and Advanced Placement (AP) exam scores.

With Kentucky transitioning to the SAT as the statewide college admissions exam given to juniors during the school day, the KEES chart now shows how SAT score ranges align with KEES test-score bonuses. This allows students to quickly see how their SAT performance may translate into additional scholarship funding.

The updated KEES chart is included below to help students and families better understand the potential impact of their GPA and test scores on their scholarship earnings.

Students can use the chart to:

• See how GPA affects yearly KEES awards

• Understand how ACT or SAT scores can increase their scholarship

• Estimate potential KEES earnings for college

Planning ahead can make a big difference when it comes to paying for college, and KEES is one of the many ways Kentucky helps students turn their academic success into financial support.

For more information about KEES and other financial aid opportunities, visit kheaa.com or speak with your school counselor.

Navigating the FAFSA

When it comes to financial aid, understanding the options available and completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can feel overwhelming. That's where KHEAA steps in as your trusted partner. Whether you're a student or parent, navigating the FAFSA is crucial in unlocking access to grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans to help make college more affordable.

At KHEAA, we’re committed to providing you with expert guidance every step of the way. Our team of Outreach Counselors is ready to help you fill out your FAFSA accurately and on time, ensuring that you don’t miss out on financial aid opportunities. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your application, KHEAA offers personalized support that caters to your unique situation.

We also understand that every student's financial aid needs are different. That’s why we provide comprehensive resources to guide you through federal and state financial aid options, including the KY Advantage Education Loan. No matter where you are in the process, our team can answer your questions, offer tips on maximizing aid, and make sure you're prepared for what's next. The FAFSA is the gateway to funding your future, and KHEAA is here to make the process as smooth as possible. Whether in-person, by phone, or online, our services are designed to take the stress out of financial aid.

Let KHEAA be your go-to resource for all things FAFSA and financial aid. Start your journey today by visiting kygoestocollege.com or contacting us at 888.452.7322 for personalized assistance. Together, we’ll make sure you have the support you need to achieve your college dreams.

Find your KHEAA Outreach Counselor

New Advantage Medical and Advantage Grad Loans Coming Soon

Students pursuing advanced degrees in healthcare and other graduate programs often face higher education costs. To help meet those needs, the Kentucky Higher Education Student Loan Corporation (KHESLC) has introduced two new loan options: Advantage Medical Loans and Advantage Grad Loans.

These loans are part of the Advantage Education Loan Program, offered by KHESLC, Kentucky’s only not-for-profit student loan lender. The program was created to help students and families access affordable financing options when scholarships, grants, and federal aid do not fully cover college costs.

Advantage Medical Loans

The Advantage Medical Loan is designed specifically for students enrolled in medical and other health-related professional degree programs. These programs often require additional years of study and clinical training, which can increase education expenses.

This loan option helps students cover remaining costs such as:

• Tuition and required fees

• Books and supplies

• Housing and living expenses

• Other qualified educational costs

Advantage Grad Loans

The Advantage Grad Loan is available for students pursuing graduate or professional degrees in a wide range of academic fields. It helps bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and other financial aid a student may receive.

Graduate students may use these loans to help pay for:

• Master’s or doctoral programs

• Professional degrees

• Additional educational expenses not covered by other aid

Features of Advantage Loans

Like other Advantage loan options, these new programs are designed to provide competitive borrowing options for students and families. Key features include:

• Low fixed interest rates

• Zero application or origination fees

• Loans offered through a state-based, nonprofit lender

KHESLC’s mission is to expand access to higher education by providing financial aid resources and low-cost loan options to help students achieve their educational goals.

Students should always explore grants, scholarships, and federal financial aid first, and consider private loans only after other options have been reviewed. Stay tuned for updates on when these loans will be available to apply.

For more information about Advantage loans and how to apply, visit AdvantageEducationLoan.com.

Teacher Scholarship

Students interested in becoming educators may be eligible for financial assistance through the KHEAA Teacher Scholarship, a program designed to help Kentucky students pursue careers in teaching.

The scholarship helps reduce the cost of earning a teaching degree for students who plan to teach in Kentucky. By supporting future educators, the program helps strengthen schools and communities across the Commonwealth.

Who May Be Eligible?

The KHEAA Teacher Scholarship is available to Kentucky residents enrolled in teacher education programs at participating Kentucky colleges and universities. Students must be working toward a degree or certification that leads to a teaching career and meet program requirements, including maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

How to Apply

Students interested in the scholarship should complete the following steps:

• Submit the Teacher Scholarship application by logging in to MyKHEAA.

• Complete the 2026–2027 FAFSA.

• Apply between January and May 1, 2026.

The 2026–2027 Teacher Scholarship Application opened in January 2026, and the deadline to apply is May 1, 2026.

Students who are interested in pursuing a teaching career are encouraged to apply early and explore this opportunity to help fund their education.

For more details and a list of participating institutions, visit KHEAA.com, click on Scholarships and Grants → Teacher Scholarship.

Coffee with KHEAA

Join us for a stimulating brew of education, career insights, and financial advice on 'Coffee with KHEAA' with Casi Benedict and Brandi Forker!

Pour yourself a cup and settle in as we explore the rich blend of topics surrounding higher education, career planning, and financial literacy. Each episode, we chat with experts, students, and professionals to serve up valuable tips and engaging discussions to help you navigate the journey toward your academic and professional goals. Whether you're savoring your morning latte or enjoying an afternoon espresso break, 'Coffee With KHEAA' is the perfect podcast companion for anyone seeking to caffeinate their mind with knowledge and inspiration.

Subscribe now and brew up success with us. Available anywhere you get your podcasts!

CHECK OUT OUR NEWEST EPISODE HERE

KY Saves 529 Quarterly $529 Account Drawing

Saving for education can start at any time, and the KY Saves 529 program offers a chance to get a head start. Each quarter in 2026, one winner will receive $529 deposited into a KY Saves 529 account through the KY Saves 529 Quarterly $529 Account Drawing.

A 529 savings plan is designed to help families save for future education expenses, including college, technical training, and other qualified education costs. The quarterly drawing is one more way to encourage families to begin planning and saving early.

How the Drawing Works

Participants can enter for a chance to win $529 toward a KY Saves 529 account during each quarterly entry period in 2026. One winner is selected each quarter.

2026 Entry Deadlines

Entries must be submitted by the following dates to be included in each drawing:

• March 31, 2026

• June 30, 2026

• September 30, 2026

• December 31, 2026

Starting to save early, even in small amounts, can make a big difference when it comes time to pay for education. Programs like KY Saves 529 are designed to help families build a foundation for future learning opportunities.

To learn more about KY Saves 529 and enter the quarterly drawing, visit kysaves.com.

ACT and SAT Spring 2026 National Test Dates

KHEAA Publications

For online copies of our publications, visit KHEAA.com, click on Plan for the Future → Student Resources → Publications.

Order form for printed copies