Free College Money in Iowa

Were you aware that your Iowa State government funds some of the best scholarships and grants around? Maybe you’re worried you won’t qualify for one red cent. Truth is most state government education aid is designed to provide something for nearly every type of student and that means you.

Types of awards you’ll find through the Iowa Student Aid Commission:

  • Scholarships weighted by academic focus or performance.
  • Grants awarded to undergraduate students with financial need seeking enrollment at public schools, community colleges, and private schools.
  • Grants based on need for students interested in pursuing a vocation.
  • Military personnel grants.

Iowa’s Gift Aid Programs

  • The Iowa Student Grant is a need-based program that aims to help the most financially disadvantaged students make it into college. Eligible candidates must complete and file the FAFSA, be pursuing an undergraduate degree at an Iowa community or public college or university. Awards are anywhere from a few hundred dollars to $1,000 and renewable for 5 years.
  • The Iowa Tuition Grant is also a need-based program, but designed for state students enrolling in a private college in Iowa. These are partial-tuition grants and max out at $4,000. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years. You must complete and file the FAFSA to be considered.
  • The All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship is a merit-based award payable to Iowa students enrolled at participating colleges and universities within the state. Priority for this free cash aid is given to students from severely disadvantaged backgrounds. Maximum value of the scholarship awards is the cost for tuition.
  • The Iowa State Fair Scholarship is available to students who have participated in the Iowa State Fair. Only 4 awards of $1,000 are given annually. Eligible candidates must also be enrolling in a college or university within the state.
  • The Robert D. Blue Scholarship is a nomination-only award and aims to reward a handful of students with superior academic mettle in combination with outstanding moral fiber. Scholarships are up to $1,000 and given annually to a select few high school seniors enrolling in an Iowa college or university.
  • The Iowa Farm Bureau Scholarship is sponsored by the Farm Bureau which plays a lead role in the state economy. The award is open to the student dependents of Farm Bureau members. Eligible students must be pursuing a degree related to agriculture or agri-business.

For additional information on Iowa scholarships and grants for college students, visit the Iowa College Student Aid Commission website.