What kinds of rental assistance are available for Kansas college students?

Eligible students may receive help through Section 8 vouchers, campus housing grants, and emergency rental assistance programs. Check your college and local social service agencies for details.

How can I protect my security deposit when moving out?

Always complete a Move-In/Move-Out Checklist and provide written notice before leaving. Take dated photos, and request an itemized statement for any deductions.

Who do I contact if my landlord is not making repairs?

Follow up in writing with your landlord. If the issue continues, contact the Kansas Attorney General’s Office or seek advice from local legal aid. In serious cases, small claims court may help resolve your dispute.

What steps should I take if I am facing eviction?

You should respond immediately to any legal notice, gather documentation, and seek legal help. You may be able to file a defense in your county’s district court and should not ignore any eviction paperwork.

Where can I find official rental forms for Kansas?

Official templates are available from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office and the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation.

First-Time Rental Help for Kansas College Students

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Kansas published June 21, 2025

Moving into your first apartment as a college student in Kansas comes with challenges—finding affordable housing, paying deposits, and understanding your rights as a renter. Fortunately, Kansas offers resources and programs to help first-time renters, including students, access stable and affordable housing. This guide outlines key programs, official forms, and tenant rights for college students starting their rental journey in Kansas.

Affordable Housing Options for Kansas College Students

Many Kansas renters struggle with leasing costs and security deposits, especially those renting for the first time. College students have specific options designed to make their first rental experience smoother:

Kansas Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: This program, managed by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC), provides rental assistance to eligible low-income individuals, including students in certain situations.
Student Housing Grant Opportunities: Some Kansas colleges and universities offer emergency housing grants, housing stipends, or on-campus residencies for qualifying students:

Check your school’s housing office or Kansas Board of Regents for available support.

Local Nonprofit & Government Rent Assistance: Programs like HUD Kansas Resources and city/county social services sometimes have emergency help for renters facing hardship or eviction.

First-Time Renter Programs and Application Process

Students planning to rent off-campus should know about programs designed for first-time renters and the application steps involved:

Security Deposit Assistance: Some agencies and nonprofits in Kansas offer help with security deposits. The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation provides links and information about regional support.
Rental Counseling: The HUD Kansas Housing Counseling Agencies offer free or low-cost guidance for new renters on leases, deposits, budgeting, and rights.

Official Forms Every First-Time Renter Should Know

Several official rental forms are essential for college students renting in Kansas:

Kansas Rental Application Form (no official state-wide number)
- When used: Landlords require this form to collect your information to assess eligibility for an apartment.
- Many landlords use their own versions, but templates can be found on the KHRC website.
Move-In/Move-Out Checklist
- When used: Both you and the landlord complete this checklist to document the apartment's condition. It’s essential for protecting your security deposit.
- Download a sample from the Kansas Attorney General's rental resources.
Kansas Notice to Vacate
- When used: If you plan to move out, this form must be given to the landlord—typically 30 days beforehand, unless your lease says otherwise.
- Sample templates can be found on the Kansas Attorney General's Landlord Tenant Resources page.

Your Rights as a First-Time Renter in Kansas

All renters in Kansas, including college students, are protected by state law — specifically the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1]. Important legal protections and responsibilities include:

Landlords must provide safe, habitable living conditions.
Security deposits cannot exceed one month's rent, or one and a half months if the unit is furnished.
You have the right to receive an itemized list of any deductions from your security deposit within 30 days of moving out.
Written notice is required for any rent increases or eviction proceedings.
You cannot be evicted without cause or proper notice.

Always keep records of your lease, payment receipts, and correspondence with your landlord. This can protect your rights in the event of a dispute.

Where to Go for Help with Rental Disputes

The Kansas District Court Small Claims Division handles tenant-landlord disputes and evictions for renters in most situations. Small claims court can assist with issues involving security deposits, repairs, and unlawful evictions.

If you’re facing an eviction or other urgent issue, consult the Kansas Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant resource page for complaint options, guidance, and further support. For formal disputes, check the District Court’s process for filing a claim or defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of rental assistance are available for Kansas college students?
Eligible students may receive help through Section 8 vouchers, campus housing grants, and emergency rental assistance programs. Check your college and local social service agencies for details.
How can I protect my security deposit when moving out?
Always complete a Move-In/Move-Out Checklist and provide written notice before leaving. Take dated photos, and request an itemized statement for any deductions.
Who do I contact if my landlord is not making repairs?
Follow up in writing with your landlord. If the issue continues, contact the Kansas Attorney General’s Office or seek advice from local legal aid. In serious cases, small claims court may help resolve your dispute.
What steps should I take if I am facing eviction?
You should respond immediately to any legal notice, gather documentation, and seek legal help. You may be able to file a defense in your county’s district court and should not ignore any eviction paperwork.
Where can I find official rental forms for Kansas?
Official templates are available from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office and the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation.

Key Takeaways for First-Time Kansas Renters

Several assistance and guidance programs are available for college students renting in Kansas.
Official forms, checklists, and clear records can help protect your security deposit and rights.
The Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act offers clear protections — know your rights and where to seek help if a dispute arises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC): Rental assistance, Section 8, and deposits
Kansas Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resources: Official forms, legal guidance, and complaint forms
Kansas District Court Small Claims Division: Tenant-landlord dispute and eviction hearings
Kansas HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agencies: Free and low-cost counseling for new renters
Kansas Legal Services: Legal advice and representation for low-income renters