The Guide to Scholarships catalogs more than 300 scholarships currently awarded to University of Iowa students and prospective students. They are by no means the full extent of the scholarships available. Many are awarded by the University; others are awarded by outside organizations.

Scholarships normally have some type of eligibility criteria that may include the applicant's high school or college grades, ACT or SAT scores, hometown locations, financial need, or a combination of these. The criteria are listed along with individual or departmental contacts when applicable.

Each scholarship description will include information on how to apply. Many scholarships do not require an application form. If a scholarship states: "Qualified students are automatically considered--no application is required," you will be considered for this scholarship if you: a) have a valid admissions status by May 1(Beginning with the 2003-2004 academic year, the Admissions deadline with be APRIL 1ST not MAY 1ST); b) have filed a financial aid application (if applicable) by April 1; and c) meet other specified criteria.

If financial need is listed as a qualifying criterion, you must demonstrate financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form should be filed as soon as possible after January 1 each year to be considered for financial aid for the following fall semester. To ensure full consideration for scholarships, the FAFSA should be filed no later than April 1.

If a scholarship description indicates the award is to first-year students, this means undergraduates entering the University directly from high school.

Most scholarships stipulate that a student must have full-time status. This means enrollment for 12 or more hours of course work per semester. The term cumulative grade-point average applies to the grade-point average earned at The University of Iowa only.

The maximum merit award from University Sources for any one student is equal to the "total cost of education" as developed annually by the UI Office of Student Financial Aid plus $1,000.