For students enrolling at the university directly from high school.
New scholarship programs may be created each year and award amounts for existing scholarship programs are subject to change. Currently enrolled students cannot become eligible for a new scholarship or a new award amount that did not exist when they first enrolled at the University of Iowa.
Select merit-based scholarships awarded by the Office of Admissions do not stack (noted in the Scholarship and Grant Policies). If a student meets the minimum requirements for multiple awards, they will automatically be awarded the scholarship with the highest dollar value. These scholarships do not apply to incoming transfer students. Please see the Scholarship and Grant Policies for information on awarding of the following scholarships.
Determination of merit-based scholarship eligibility will only consider test scores administered through February 2024 of the senior year and 7th semester (or 2nd trimester) grade point average. March 1, 2024, is the deadline for students to apply for admission in order to be considered for these scholarships. April 1, 2024, is the deadline to submit an updated transcript and/or official test score for scholarship reconsideration. Scholarships are subject to change each year for incoming new students.
All admitted first-year students entering Fall 2024 with or without an ACT or SAT score on file will be considered for merit scholarships awarded by the Office of Admissions. Scholarship awarding decisions for students who do not provide test scores will be made following a review of a student's credentials. Students who are able to take the SAT or ACT after application or admission are encouraged to self-report or send official test scores prior to April 1, 2024, to be considered for additional scholarship opportunities. Subsequent receipt of test scores will never negatively impact a previous admission or scholarship decision.
For incoming first-year nonresident students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents or international students who graduate from a U.S. high school.
$2,000–$15,000 a year for up to four years
Nonresident undergraduate first-year students who submit a complete application for admission by March 1 are automatically considered for the National Scholars Award. Scholarship awarding and amounts are based on outstanding academic merit (standardized test scores and GPA) and exceptional promise at the University of Iowa.
None. Scholarship is awarded automatically to eligible students upon admission.
Up to four years, or until you receive your bachelor’s degree (whichever comes first). You must maintain continuous full-time enrollment at the University of Iowa (fall and spring terms), a minimum 2.75 cumulative UI GPA, and continue to pay nonresident tuition. Renewal reviews are done at the end of each semester.
For National Merit finalists who designate the University of Iowa as their first-choice institution.
For National Recognition Program Scholars (African American or Black, Hispanic American or Latinx, Indigenous) who enroll at Iowa.
$3,000 a year for up to four years
Up to four years, or until you receive your bachelor’s degree (whichever comes first), provided you maintain continuous full-time enrollment at the University of Iowa (fall and spring terms), and meet the scholarships standards for renewal. National Merit Scholars must meet the National Merit Corporation standards for renewal. National Recognition Program Scholars must maintain a 3.00 cumulative UI GPA. Renewal reviews are done at the end of each semester.
In addition to the scholarships above that are awarded by the Office of Admissions, there are a variety of scholarships administered by University of Iowa colleges and departments for the incoming new student as well as the continuing University of Iowa student. Expand your search using the links below.
Iowa Scholarship Portal
Visit the Iowa Scholarship Portal for additional scholarship opportunities. Admitted and currently enrolled students can log in using their HawkID and password to begin the application process.