Dreaming of earning a bachelor’s degree in the United States but worried about tuition costs? Iowa State University offers one of the most attractive opportunities for international students through its International Merit Scholarships 2026. These awards are tailored for high‑achieving first‑year and transfer students from abroad, rewarding academic excellence and extracurricular accomplishments. If you’ve built a strong academic profile, this scholarship could be the key to making your U.S. education affordable.

   

What the Scholarship Offers

The International Merit Scholarships provide substantial financial support to reduce the cost of undergraduate study. Awards are competitive and limited, but they can make a huge difference in your overall expenses.

• Award of Achievement: Valued at up to $40,000 total, distributed annually in amounts ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 depending on your profile.
• Award of Distinction: Valued at up to $16,000 total, typically awarded as $2,000 to $4,000 per year.

Both scholarships can be renewed for up to eight semesters (or until you complete your degree), provided you meet the renewal requirements.

Eligibility Criteria

These scholarships are designed for international students who demonstrate strong academic potential. To qualify, you must:

• Receive admission to Iowa State University as an international first‑year or transfer student.
• Be assessed at international tuition rates.
• Accept your admission offer by May 1 (Fall intake) or December 15 (Spring intake).

Selection is based on a holistic review of your application, including:

• SAT or ACT scores
• High school grades
• Overall achievements and strength of your profile

Recommended for you:

Renewal Requirements

To keep your scholarship throughout your degree, you must:

• Maintain a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.
• Enroll in at least 12 credits per semester (excluding summer).
• Continue to be classified as an international student.
• Use the funds only for undergraduate tuition and fees.

How to Apply

Applying is straightforward once you’ve been admitted to Iowa State University:

1. Log in to the OneApp portal.
2. Complete the General Application.
3. Navigate to Opportunities > Recommended.
4. Select the International Student Admissions Scholarship Application for your term.

Submitting early gives you priority consideration, so don’t wait until the final deadline.

Direct link to apply: https://www.iastate.edu/admission-and-aid/admissions/international-admissions/international-merit-scholarships

Important Deadlines

• Fall 2026 Intake
  • Priority deadline: February 15, 2026
  • Final deadline: May 1, 2026
• Spring 2026 Intake
  • Priority deadline: November 15, 2026
  • Final deadline: December 15, 2026

Remember: You must accept your admission offer by May 1 (Fall) or December 15 (Spring). Missing this step can make you ineligible, even if your scholarship application is strong.

Why This Scholarship Matters

For many international students, tuition fees in the U.S. can feel overwhelming. Iowa State University’s merit scholarships are designed to ease that burden, rewarding students who have already proven themselves academically. By securing one of these awards, you’ll not only reduce your financial stress but also gain recognition for your achievements.

This scholarship is more than just financial aid — it’s a vote of confidence in your potential to succeed at a top U.S. university.

FAQs

1. Who can apply for the Iowa State University International Merit Scholarships?

International first‑year and transfer students who are admitted to Iowa State University and assessed at international tuition rates.

2. How much financial support can I receive?

You may receive up to $40,000 through the Award of Achievement or up to $16,000 through the Award of Distinction, spread across your undergraduate years.

3. Can the scholarship be renewed?

Yes, for up to eight semesters, provided you maintain a 2.5 GPA, enroll in 12+ credits per semester, and remain classified as an international student.

4. What happens if I miss the admission acceptance deadline?

You will lose eligibility for the scholarship, even if your application was otherwise strong.

5. Where can I apply?

Applications are submitted through Iowa State University’s OneApp portal. Direct link: https://www.iastate.edu/admission-and-aid/admissions/international-admissions/international-merit-scholarships

More Opportunities: