University of Iowa Merit-Based Scholarships 2026: Funding for First-Year Students

Study Abroad Merit-Based Scholarships

There are a number of donor-funded Study Abroad Merit-based scholarships available to students participating in Study Abroad programs. These programs must include travel and last for a semester, academic year, summer, or winter. These scholarships do not apply to virtual programs.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants for scholarships should review all requirements necessary prior to submission of applications. Any incomplete applications or attempted submissions after the published deadlines will not be accepted. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA
• Participate in a study abroad program that includes physical travel
• Enroll in a program lasting for a semester, academic year, summer, or winter
• Note that virtual programs are not eligible for this funding

How to Apply

First, log in to the Iowa Scholarship Portal to complete the General Application. After completing the general application, you can then complete the desired Study Abroad scholarship application. To find all Study Abroad opportunities on the portal, use the keyword “Study Abroad” in the Scopes section.

Semester and Academic Year Scholarships

To apply for any of the semester or academic year merit scholarships, applicants should complete one Semester Merit Scholarship Application along with any other requirements listed specific to the scholarship. This process will result in the submission of one application, required essays, required reference letters, and grade reports.

Winter and Summer Scholarships

To apply for any of the winter or summer merit scholarships, applicants should complete one Summer Merit Scholarship Application along with any other requirements listed specific to the scholarship. This process will result in the submission of one application, required essays, required reference letters, and grade reports.

Reference Letters

Reference letters must come from faculty or teaching assistants. They will be requested through the Iowa Scholarship Portal when the applicant provides the email addresses. Referees will upload their reference letters directly into the portal system.

Application Deadlines

All applications must be submitted through the Iowa Scholarship Portal by the following dates:

• Winter: October 1
• Spring: October 15
• Summer: March 1
• Fall: March 15