Reduced Tuition Rate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Manhattan Tech Announces Reduced Tuition Rate for High School and Homeschool Students

Manhattan, Kansas — August 19, 2026 — Manhattan Area Technical College has announced a new reduced tuition rate of $125 per credit hour for all high school and homeschool students who do not qualify for Excel in Career Technical Education(CTE) funding through the Kansas Board of Regents. Due to recent legislative changes at the state level, Sophomore-level high school students are no longer eligible for tuition assistance through the Excel in CTE program starting this academic year. 

The new initiative by Manhattan Tech expands access to transcripted college credit for students participating in both general education and career and technical education courses while reducing a potential financial barrier for families. Eligible students can earn official Manhattan Tech credit while still in high school and begin building progress toward a technical credential, degree, or career pathway.

“Manhattan Tech is committed to making high-quality technical education accessible to all students in our community and the region,” said Chris Boxberger, Vice President of Education & Engagement at Manhattan Area Technical College. “We know that early exposure to college-level career and technical education can make a meaningful difference in a student’s confidence, career direction, and future success. This reduced rate creates another pathway for students to earn college credit, even when state funding is not accessible to them.”

Students who meet current Kansas Board of Regents eligibility requirements for Excel in CTE funding may continue to receive tuition support through that program. Students who are not eligible for that funding, including sophomores and homeschool students, may now enroll in eligible Manhattan Tech coursework at the $125-per-credit-hour rate.

The new tuition rate supports students in high-demand career pathways connected to programs such as welding, business, construction, automotive technology, early childhood education, healthcare, general education, and additional technical fields. Students enrolled through their high school will not be charged MATC lab-consumable, course, or credit-hour fees associated with on-campus instruction.

“This partnership with Manhattan Tech creates an important opportunity for Manhattan High School students to explore career pathways while earning meaningful college credit,” said Michael Dorst, Principal of Manhattan High School. “By reducing the cost for students who are not eligible for Excel in CTE funding, Manhattan Tech is helping ensure that financial circumstances do not prevent students from accessing high-quality technical education. We are grateful for Manhattan Tech’s leadership and its commitment to removing barriers for students and families in our community.”

Manhattan Tech’s partnership with area school districts helps students explore careers, develop practical skills, and earn college credit before graduation. The college is funding the reduced tuition initiative through institutional resources and remains committed to serving the region despite receiving no local property-tax revenue.

“Strong communities are built when students can see a future for themselves close to home,” Boxberger said. “This is an investment in students, families, local employers, and the long-term strength of the Manhattan area.”

High school and homeschool students interested in earning Fall 2026 transcripted credit must complete the college’s enrollment process by September 11, 2026. 

For information about enrollment, eligible courses, tuition, and Excel in CTE requirements, contact Manhattan Area Technical College at 785-587-2800 or visit www.manhattantech.edu.

For more information about how you can support high school students taking concurrent courses through scholarships or donations, please contact outreach@manhattantech.edu.

Media Contact:
Bryant Kniffin – bryantkniffin@manhattantech.edu