University of Iowa — Iowa Scholars Award (Iowa Residents, Automatic Merit)

About This Opportunity

The Iowa Scholars Award is the University of Iowa's automatic merit scholarship for Iowa residents. If you are a Council Bluffs student — you are an Iowa resident, and this award is for you. No separate application required: the University of Iowa automatically considers all Iowa resident applicants for merit scholarships based on your academic record (GPA, class rank, and/or ACT/SAT scores). Award amounts vary by academic credentials — higher GPA and test scores correspond to higher award tiers. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years with satisfactory academic progress. To receive full scholarship consideration, apply by February 2 for Fall 2026 enrollment. CRITICAL RESIDENCY NOTE: The Iowa Scholars Award is for Iowa residents only. Omaha students (Nebraska residents) are NON-residents at the University of Iowa — they are instead considered for the National Scholars Award (entry #2 in this batch). The financial difference is significant: Iowa residents also pay in-state tuition (~$10,000-$11,000/year), while non-residents pay approximately $32,000+/year. CB students have a major cost advantage at the University of Iowa. STACKING: Iowa Scholars, National Scholars, and Iowa Flagship awards do NOT stack. Student receives the highest single applicable award. Verify the current tier chart and award amounts at admissions.uiowa.edu/finances/scholarships.

Who Can Apply

Iowa RESIDENT required (Council Bluffs students qualify). Automatic consideration at admission based on GPA, class rank, and/or ACT/SAT scores — no separate scholarship application. Apply to University of Iowa by February 2 for full merit consideration (updated test scores or transcript accepted until March 1). Renewable for 4 years (8 semesters) with satisfactory academic progress and full-time enrollment. Verify current tier thresholds and award amounts at admissions.uiowa.edu/cost-aid/first-year-resident-scholarships.