SCHOLARSHIPS

Investing in the next generation of rural leaders

At United, our commitment to Southwest Kansas goes beyond providing communications services. As a local cooperative, we believe in creating opportunities that strengthen our communities and help the people who call them home thrive.

Through our partnership with the Foundation for Rural Service (FRS), eligible students have the opportunity to learn, grow, and prepare for what comes next with the FRS Scholarship.

Who is Eligible?

This opportunity is designed to benefit students connected to the rural communities United serves.

Applicants must meet United’s eligibility requirements, including being a student who is a United Telephone Association, Inc. cooperative member or who resides in a member household. Additional age, grade-level, and program-specific requirements may apply.

Is your household eligible?

United’s eligible service area is shown on the map below.

Not sure whether you qualify? Have the account holder contact us, and we’ll be happy to help.

FRS Scholarship

Helping rural students take their next step in education

The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) Scholarship Program helps students from rural communities pursue postsecondary education. Graduating high school seniors, as well as non-traditional students (those who have not recently graduated from high school and who may be entering college or vocational school while working, or returning students who have taken a break from their studies) can apply for scholarships through FRS, including the $2,500 FRS General Scholarship, which includes a $500 contribution from United when an eligible United-sponsored student is selected. The value of the scholarships ranges from $1,000-$9,000, based on a variety of criteria. One application qualifies a student for all available FRS scholarships.

What you should know

• Open to graduating high school seniors and non-traditional students whose household is an eligible United ILEC member
• Scholarship awards range from $1,000-$9,000, based on a variety of criteria.
• The FRS General Scholarship is currently $2,500.
• One application qualifies a student for all available FRS scholarships.
• United contributes $500 toward the award when an eligible United-sponsored student is selected
• Scholarship funds are intended for the student’s first year at a college, university, or vocational-technical school
• Applying through United makes the student eligible for consideration but does not guarantee a scholarship
• FRS reviews applications and selects recipients
• Additional FRS scholarship opportunities may be available based on the student’s qualifications and field of study

2027 applications: OPEN NOW!

Important Dates

October 1, 2026
Applications open

February 15, 2027
Application deadline

April/May 2027
FRS Scholarship recipients announced

Dates and program requirements are subject to change. Check this page for the latest information.

Questions?

Have questions about eligibility, applications, or either opportunity?

Mary Beth Helfrich
Administration Manager

scholarships@unitedtelcom.net

620-227-8641 x210

We’re happy to help students and families determine whether they qualify for either youth opportunity. Good luck!