Making free college a reality
Our goal at Evolve502 is to support students as they pursue the dream of a college education. By expanding educational opportunities and reducing systemic barriers, we can ensure our children reach their full potential and enjoy successful, productive and fulfilling lives. We know that for some young people, cost – or perceived cost – can be a barrier that makes college seem unattainable. We’re working to change that.
Our Evolve502 Scholarship is an investment in our city’s young people, allowing every eligible JCPS graduate to pursue their college and career goals at no cost. We believe that making college free will transform lives.
The Evolve502 Scholarship, open to all eligible Jefferson County Public Schools Class of 2021 graduates, will allow students to attend any Kentucky Community & Technical College or Simmons College of Kentucky. The Evolve502 Scholarship may be used to earn an associate degree, workforce credential, or as a pathway to earn a four-year degree.
Our goal is to grow this program, and extend this scholarship program through the Class of 2034.
The Evolve502 Scholarship is a last dollar scholarship program. The scholarship covers a student’s tuition after federal and state aid have been applied.
Additionally, any eligible student with a household income of $40,000 or below will receive an Opportunity Grant of $1,000 per semester (up to $2,000 per year) to assist in defraying the total cost of attendance or to help students pay for unexpected expenses which might occur while enrolled.
Eligibility
Beginning with the class of 2021, students who meet the following criteria will be eligible:
Please note: For those JCPS students who might not meet the full eligibility requirements but are interested in the scholarship, please proceed in submitting an application before the deadline. An Evolve502 staff member will follow up with you at a later date to complete an appeals form. A panel of staff and community members will review these appeals periodically and will communicate decisions directly to you.
Maintaining eligibility
To receive the Evolve502 Scholarship students must do the following:
Limitations
Limitations of the Evolve502 scholarship include:
Our scholarship application opens annually on Oct. 1 and must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. June 30.
Below is an overview of the full process to become an Evolve502 Scholar.
For questions about the application process, please email scholarships@evolve502.org.
Dr. Martin “Marty” Pollio, Jefferson County Public Schools Superintendent