Iowa State University International Merit Scholarships
Offered by Iowa State University
About this scholarship
Iowa State University International Merit Scholarships are competitive awards for first-year and transfer international undergraduates. The first-year awards are for a limited number of high-achieving students and are selected through a holistic review of SAT or ACT scores and high school grades. Published first-year values include the Award of Achievement at $5,000 to $10,000 per year, up to $40,000 total, and the Award of Distinction at $2,000 to $4,000 per year, up to $16,000 total. Transfer awards recognize strong academic records and exceptional achievements in areas such as mathematics, sciences, arts, leadership, community service, innovation, or entrepreneurship, with annual values from $2,000 to $8,000. The award is partial funding because it applies only toward undergraduate tuition and fees. Unlike the automatic Excellence Award, this scholarship requires students to complete Iowa State's OneApp scholarship application, including the General Application and the International Student Admissions Scholarship Application under recommended opportunities. It cannot be combined with the International Student Excellence Award.
Eligibility
- Be offered admission to Iowa State University as an international first-year or transfer student
- Be assessed international tuition rates
- Complete the OneApp General Application
- Complete the International Student Admissions Scholarship Application for the entry term
- First-year review is based on high school grades and SAT or ACT scores where submitted
- Transfer applicants need a cumulative GPA equivalent to at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Accept the admission offer by May 1 for fall or December 15 for spring
- Maintain a 2.5 cumulative GPA, 12 credits per semester, and international classification for renewal
Always verify amounts and deadlines on the official site; they change each cycle.
Last verified by us: 2026-06-02.