Support Networks

The Center for Inclusive Academic Excellence coordinates a variety of campus programs and services designed to create a welcoming environment for underrepresented minority students, first-generation college students, and students from low-income families. Additional support networks include: 

• Iowa Edge Program—This freshman introduction to campus is held the week before fall classes begin to welcome selected African
  American, Asian American, Latino/Hispanic, American Indian, first-generation, and LGBTQ+ college students to the University.
• Afro House
• Iowa Biosciences Academy
• Iowa Black Alumni Association
• Living learning communities in the Residence Halls
• Student Organizations
  • Historically African American Fraternities and Sororities (NPHC)
  • Black Student Union
  • African American Council

Areas of Study

Iowa offers more than 200 Areas of Study for undergraduates, including programs that focus on specific cultures.

• African American Studies Program
• American Studies
• Interdepartmental Studies
• International Studies

Education and Advocacy

• Iowa Commission on the Status of African Americans
• UI Center for Human Rights
• UI Office of Equal Opportunity & Diversity

Financial Aid and Scholarships

To supplement the cost of attending the University, start your scholarship search with the UI Office of Student Financial Aid and adding the University of Iowa to your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additional resources include:

• UI Scholarships—UI scholarships specifically awarded to promote diversity with underrepresented groups include (but are not
  limited to):
  • Iowa Minority Academic Grants for Economic Success
  • Advantage Iowa Award

Pre-College Programs and Community Resources

• African American Museum of Iowa

Contact the Center for Inclusive Academic Excellence for information about summer programs for students who are members of underrepresented minority groups.

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