The Iowa State University Merit Scholarship 2025 presents an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving international students seeking undergraduate study in the United States. This competitive scholarship recognizes outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, and global potential, with financial support available to both first-year and transfer students applying to Iowa State University (ISU). Known for its academic excellence and commitment to innovation, ISU offers a welcoming environment where scholarship recipients can thrive academically and personally.

About Iowa State University

Located in Ames, Iowa, Iowa State University is a public research university recognized for its excellence in science, engineering, agriculture, and technology. With a legacy of innovation and inclusion, ISU is home to over 30,000 students from around the world. The campus combines academic rigor with vibrant student life, offering a well-rounded undergraduate experience supported by faculty, research opportunities, and a global outlook.

Overview of the Merit Scholarship 2025

The Iowa State University Merit Scholarship is designed to attract academically talented students who will contribute to the university's diverse and dynamic community. The scholarship awards are available for both incoming freshmen and transfer students and are renewable for the duration of the study period, subject to academic performance.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: United States
• Institution: Iowa State University (ISU)
• Degree Level: Undergraduate
• Funding Type: Partially Funded
• Deadline: 15 November 2025

Scholarship Benefits

The Iowa State University Merit Scholarship provides significant financial support in the form of tuition discounts:

For First-Year Freshmen:

• Award of Achievement: $5,000 to $10,000 annually (maximum of $40,000 over four years)

• Award of Distinction: $2,000 to $4,000 annually (maximum of $16,000 over four years)

For Transfer Students:

• Achievement Award: Up to $20,000 total

• Distinction Award: Up to $10,000 total

Additional Notes:

• Renewable for up to eight semesters for freshmen and five semesters for transfer students

• Covers tuition and fees only (not housing, books, or personal expenses)
• Based on academic performance for renewal

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Iowa State University Merit Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

General Requirements:

• International Student Status: Must be a non-U.S. citizen paying non-resident tuition

• Admission Status: Must be admitted to an undergraduate program at ISU
• Full-Time Enrollment: Minimum of 12 credit hours per semester
• No Government Sponsorship: Applicants funded by their national governments are ineligible

Academic Requirements:

• A strong academic record, typically demonstrated through GPA or performance in secondary or post-secondary institutions
• SAT or ACT scores (optional for admission but helpful for scholarship evaluation)

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following materials:

• Admission offer letter from Iowa State University
• Completed OneApp General Scholarship Application (available on ISU’s scholarship portal)
• International Student Admissions Scholarship Application (within OneApp)
• Official academic transcripts (high school or college)
• One or more letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors
• Copy of passport (valid and clearly scanned)
• Optional: SAT/ACT scores (especially recommended for freshmen)

Application Timeline

Primary Deadline:

• 15 November 2025 for scholarship applications and supporting documents

Notification Dates:

• Preliminary results: 21 November 2025
• Final scholarship decisions: 2 December 2025

Additional Round (if applicable):

• Deadline: 19 December 2025

• Results announced: February to March 2026

How to Apply

Follow these steps to complete the scholarship application process:

• Apply for admission to Iowa State University via the official admissions portal.
• Access the OneApp Scholarship Portal after receiving your admission offer.
• Complete both the General Application and the International Student Admissions Scholarship Application.
• Upload all required documents.
• Review your application for accuracy.
• Submit your application before the deadline.

Important: Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered.

FAQs: Iowa State University Merit Scholarship

What is the Iowa State University Merit Scholarship?

It is a competitive, renewable financial award for undergraduate international students based on academic merit and admission status.

Who is eligible?

First-year and transfer students who are non-U.S. citizens, paying non-resident tuition, and have received admission to an ISU undergraduate program.

Are test scores required?

Not required for admission, but SAT/ACT scores can strengthen your application and increase your award potential.

What scholarships are available for Iowa residents?

Domestic students may be eligible for awards such as the Loyal Scholar ($12,000 over four years) based on GPA and test scores.

Can international students receive automatic merit scholarships?

Yes. International students are automatically considered for scholarships based on their academic credentials once admitted.

Are transfer students eligible?

Yes. Transfer students may qualify for awards ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 based on GPA and accomplishments.

How are merit awards renewed?

Students must maintain continuous full-time enrollment and meet the required GPA standards (2.5 to 3.0 depending on the award).

Is government sponsorship allowed?

No. Students funded by their home governments are not eligible for the ISU Merit Scholarship.

Are there scholarships for all undergraduate programs?

Yes, all admitted international undergraduate students are eligible regardless of their chosen program of study.

What happens after I apply?

Scholarship decisions are communicated via email. Results typically follow within two to three weeks of the application deadline.

Advantages of Studying at Iowa State University

Beyond financial aid, international students at ISU benefit from:

• A supportive international student office
• Academic excellence in STEM and agriculture
• Internship and research opportunities
• Access to career counseling and global alumni networks
• A safe and inclusive campus environment

Apply now through the official portal and take your first step toward a world-class education in the heart of the United States.

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