Iowa University International Merit Scholarships 2026

Iowa University International Merit Scholarships: Iowa State University offers merit-based scholarships to high-achieving international students seeking undergraduate degrees. These scholarships reward academic excellence and outstanding achievements, helping reduce tuition costs for first-year and transfer students.
Scholarship Awards:
- Award of Achievement: Up to $40,000 total, typically $5,000–$10,000 per year.
- Award of Distinction: Up to $16,000 total, typically $2,000–$4,000 per year.
Funding can continue for up to 8 semesters or until degree completion if renewal requirements are met.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be admitted as an international first-year or transfer student.
- Must pay international tuition rates.
- Must accept the admission offer by the deadline:
- Fall: May 1, 2026
- Spring: December 15, 2026
- Selection considers high school grades, SAT/ACT scores, and overall achievements.
Renewal Requirements:
To maintain your scholarship:
- Minimum GPA: 2.5
- Course Load: 12+ credits per semester (summer excluded)
- Remain an international student
- Use funds only for tuition and fees
Benefits of Iowa University International Merit Scholarships:
- Huge Financial Help: Awards of up to $40,000 can lower your undergraduate tuition costs, making an education in the U.S. more reasonable for students from other countries.
- Academic Excellence: Get scholarships that recognize your great grades, achievements in high school, and overall success on a world scale.
- Long-Term Funding Security: Scholarships can be renewed for up to eight semesters, so they will keep giving you money while you are a student.
- Better academic chances: Get access to more tools, mentorship, and recognition that can help your academic and professional standing.
- High Achievers Get Priority: Stand out in a crowded applicant group with a scholarship that looks at more than just grades.
- Exclusive Support for foreign Students: The scholarship is only for foreign students and helps pay for tuition while promoting a global learning experience at Iowa University.
- Encouragement for Leadership and Extracurriculars: Rewards students who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and active participation beyond academics.
- Long-Term Tuition Planning: Provides clarity and predictability in managing your education costs over four years.
Check Also: Research Proposal Design and Format for Scholarships
Visa Requirements for Iowa University International Merit Scholarships 2026:
- F-1 Student Visa Required: You must obtain a valid F-1 visa to study in the USA as an international undergraduate student.
- Admission Confirmation: Provide your Iowa University admission letter and I-20 form issued by the university to apply for the visa.
- Financial Proof: Show sufficient funds to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses, including scholarship amounts awarded.
- Visa Interview: Attend a U.S. embassy or consulate interview and provide academic records, passport, and scholarship details.
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in the U.S.
How to Apply for Iowa University International Merit Scholarships?
- Get admitted to Iowa State University.
- Submit the scholarship application via the OneApp portal:
- General Application → Opportunities → Recommended → International Student Admissions Scholarship Application.
- Apply early for priority consideration and ensure admission acceptance by the required date. https://www.henkel.com/careers/jobs-and-application/2084952-2084952
Application Deadlines
- Fall 2026: Priority – February 15 | Final – May 1
- Spring 2026: Priority – November 15 | Final – December 15
Direct Link: Iowa State International Merit Scholarships
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the Iowa University International Merit Scholarships?
The Iowa University International Merit Scholarships 2026 provide up to $40,000 in merit-based financial support to high-achieving international undergraduate students to help cover tuition and academic expenses for up to eight semesters.
Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
International first-year and transfer students admitted to Iowa University who meet academic excellence criteria, pay international tuition rates, and accept their admission offer by the specified deadline can apply for the merit-based scholarship.
How can students maintain the scholarship once awarded?
Recipients must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA, enroll in at least 12 credits per semester, remain classified as international students, and use the scholarship solely for undergraduate tuition and fees to continue receiving funding.



