Iowa Scholarships & Grants for 2025 - 2026

Overview of Iowa Scholarships & Grants

Iowa offers a wide range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs for both in-state and out-of-state students. This guide covers automatic merit scholarships from major universities, full-ride opportunities, statewide grants, and private-school awards. Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or parent planning ahead, you’ll find reliable information to help make higher education in Iowa more affordable.

Iowa Tuition Grant (for private colleges) and Iowa State Grant are common starting points.

What Scholarships Can I Get in Iowa?

Iowa students have access to a wide range of scholarships and grants designed to make higher education more affordable. Notable statewide programs include the All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship, the Iowa Tuition Grant, and the Bright Scholars of Iowa Scholarship. These awards recognize both academic achievement and financial need, supporting students attending Iowa’s public, private, and community colleges. In addition, institutional scholarships are available at universities such as the University of Iowa and Iowa State University, many of which automatically consider students based on GPA, test scores, or major.

Who Qualifies for the Iowa Tuition Grant?

The Iowa Tuition Grant provides need-based financial assistance to Iowa residents enrolled at eligible private colleges and universities within the state. To qualify, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and demonstrate financial need. Awards typically range up to $7,500 per year, depending on the student’s financial circumstances and available state funding. The program is designed to give more Iowans access to private, nonprofit education without taking on excessive student debt.

What Scholarships and Grants Are Available for College Students in Iowa?

College students in Iowa can benefit from a combination of state, institutional, and private scholarships. The Robert D. Blue Scholarship recognizes academic excellence and civic engagement among Iowa residents, while the Iowa Vocational-Technical Tuition Grant assists students pursuing technical or career-based programs at Iowa community colleges. Another unique award, the Governor Terry E. Branstad Iowa State Fair Scholarship, honors students who demonstrate leadership and involvement in the Iowa State Fair and related agricultural organizations.

Need-based grants, such as the Iowa Tuition Grant and the Federal Pell Grant, further expand access to higher education for students from low- and moderate-income families. These combined opportunities ensure that nearly every student—whether pursuing a four-year degree or a skilled trade—can find financial support in Iowa.

What Scholarships Are Offered at the University of Iowa?

The University of Iowa offers numerous scholarships for both incoming and continuing students. Among the most notable are the Presidential Scholarship, awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership; the Iowa Scholars Award, which provides merit-based funding to high-performing residents; and the Old Gold Scholarship, which supports strong academic performers from across the country. In addition to these major awards, the university offers departmental scholarships for specific majors, as well as awards that recognize leadership, service, and research potential.

Are There Scholarships for Out-of-State Students in Iowa?

Yes. Iowa’s public universities offer competitive scholarships to attract talented students from other states. The Advantage Iowa Award at the University of Iowa and the International Merit Scholarship at Iowa State University are among the most prominent, offering significant tuition reductions for non-resident students. Many universities also provide automatic merit-based scholarships for out-of-state applicants who meet specific GPA or test score benchmarks, helping to offset the higher cost of non-resident tuition.

What Is the All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship?

The All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship (AIOS) is one of the state’s most impactful need-based programs. It provides renewable funding to Iowa residents attending eligible two- or four-year institutions. Priority consideration is given to students who were in foster care, were adopted after age 16, or participated in federal TRIO programs such as Upward Bound or Talent Search. Recipients can receive up to the equivalent of full tuition at an Iowa public university, and awards may be renewed for up to four years if students maintain satisfactory academic progress.

What Is the Iowa Scholarship Portal?

The Iowa Scholarship Portal is an online tool provided by the University of Iowa to help students search and apply for scholarships in one centralized place. It consolidates funding opportunities from departments, colleges, and campus organizations, allowing students to complete a single application for multiple awards. The portal also helps match students to scholarships that align with their academic achievements, background, and field of study, making the application process more efficient and accessible.

What Scholarships Are Available for High School Seniors in Iowa?

Iowa high school seniors can apply for several scholarships that recognize both merit and community involvement. The Bright Scholars of Iowa Program provides full tuition and fees for students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and financial need. The Iowa 4-H Foundation Scholarships support students involved in 4-H programs across the state, while the Iowa State Education Association (ISEA) Scholarship assists those pursuing education degrees. Many local businesses, community foundations, and civic organizations also offer smaller awards that can be combined with state aid.

What Are the University of Iowa Merit Scholarships for Non-Residents?

For non-resident students, the University of Iowa offers several merit-based awards that help offset tuition costs. The National Scholars Award provides up to $12,000 annually for students with strong academic records, while the Advantage Iowa Award supports non-resident students who contribute to campus diversity and excel academically. Some scholarships are renewable for up to four years, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress and meet GPA requirements.

What Are the Requirements for University of Iowa Merit Scholarships?

Eligibility for University of Iowa merit scholarships varies by award but generally includes a strong high school GPA, competitive ACT or SAT scores, and active involvement in extracurricular or community activities. Prestigious awards such as the Presidential Scholarship may require additional application materials, including essays or interviews, while others—like the Iowa Scholars Award—are awarded automatically based on academic performance. Early admission and FAFSA submission are strongly encouraged to ensure full scholarship consideration.