Iowa State University, Ames offers a range of scholarships to both incoming and current students, designed to assist them in their academic journey and ease the financial burden of higher education.
Iowa State University Scholarship
Whether you are an undergraduate, graduate, or international student, ISU provides various scholarship opportunities that support diverse student needs based on merit, financial need, program of study, and student background.
Merit-Based Scholarships
These scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and standardized test scores.
Examples include the Iowa State University Presidential Scholarship, which is awarded to high-achieving incoming freshmen.
Need-Based Scholarships
These scholarships are designed to assist students who demonstrate financial need. They are awarded after an assessment of the student's financial situation.
Examples include the Iowa State University Need-Based Grant.
Departmental Scholarships
Various departments and colleges within ISU offer specialized scholarships based on the student's major or field of study.
For example, the College of Engineering Scholarships for students pursuing engineering degrees.
Diversity Scholarships
ISU promotes diversity and inclusion through scholarships aimed at underrepresented groups.
Scholarships such as the Diversity Leadership Scholarship aim to support students from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
Athletic Scholarships
For student-athletes, ISU provides a range of sports-related scholarships.
These scholarships are offered to students who demonstrate exceptional talent in sports such as football, basketball, and track and field.
Iowa State University Undergraduate Scholarship
Iowa State University, Ames Undergraduate Scholarships are designed to support students pursuing their bachelor’s degrees. The scholarships range from general merit-based awards to those aimed at specific disciplines, helping students ease the financial strain while encouraging academic excellence.
Presidential Scholarship
This prestigious scholarship is awarded to the highest-achieving incoming freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential.
Amount: $8,000-$12,000 per year
Requirements: High academic achievement (typically 3.8 GPA or higher) and strong leadership skills.
Cyclone Scholar Award
The Cyclone Scholar Award recognizes outstanding academic achievements and is aimed at first-year students.
Amount: Varies
Requirements: High GPA, ACT/SAT scores, and extracurricular involvement.
Department-Specific Undergraduate Scholarships
Many departments at ISU offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing specific degrees. For instance, students in the College of Business can apply for the Business College Scholars Program, while students in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences can apply for various scholarships offered by the college's foundation.
Diversity Leadership Scholarship
Aimed at supporting students from diverse backgrounds, including students of color, LGBTQ+ students, and first-generation college students.
Amount: Varies based on application.
First-Generation Scholarship
Specifically for students who are the first in their family to attend college, offering them financial support as they embark on their academic careers at ISU.
Iowa State University Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Scholarships
To be considered for most undergraduate scholarships at Iowa State University, Ames, students must meet specific eligibility requirements. These may include:
A minimum GPA requirement (typically 3.0 or higher).
Completion of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for need-based scholarships.
Enrollment status as a full-time student.
Specific departmental criteria for scholarships associated with a particular major.
For graduate students, Iowa State University, Ames offers a variety of scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships designed to support their advanced academic work, research, and professional development.
Graduate Research Assistantships (GRAs)
These are often awarded to students pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. degree. GRAs provide financial support in exchange for research work under the supervision of faculty members.
Amount: Typically includes a stipend, tuition coverage, and benefits.
Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs)
Graduate students may also be awarded teaching assistantships, which allow them to work as teaching assistants for undergraduate courses in exchange for tuition remission and a stipend.
Amount: Varies based on the department and position.
Department-Specific Graduate Scholarships
Similar to undergraduate scholarships, many departments at ISU offer specialized scholarships for graduate students in specific fields. Examples include:
College of Engineering Graduate Fellowship
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Graduate Scholarship
Research Funding
Graduate students pursuing research may apply for scholarships and fellowships that provide funding for research materials, travel to conferences, and publication fees.
International Travel Scholarships
For students attending international conferences or conducting research abroad, ISU offers funding to help cover the costs.
Iowa State University Eligibility Criteria for Graduate Scholarships
Graduate scholarships generally require:
Admission to a graduate program at ISU.
A strong academic record, typically with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
A demonstrated interest in research or teaching.
For research assistantships, students must often submit a proposal or statement of research interests.
Iowa State University Professional and Certificate Program Scholarships
Iowa State University also provides scholarships for students pursuing professional degrees or certification programs. These include programs in areas like engineering, business, and agriculture, where students can receive targeted financial support.
Professional Degree Scholarships: Students pursuing professional degrees in fields such as law, medicine, and business can apply for specialized scholarships. The Iowa State University, Ames College of Business, for example, offers scholarships for MBA students and other business-related professional programs.
Certificate Program Scholarships: For students enrolled in certificate programs, such as those related to continuing education or specific career fields, ISU offers scholarships designed to help students offset the costs associated with these programs.