Grants are considered "gift aid" and do not have to be repaid. Typically only the neediest of students receive grants.

Tuition Opportunity Program for Iowans (TOPS)

Federal Grants

Pell Grant

A Federal Pell Grant, unlike a loan, does not have to be repaid. Generally, Pell Grants are awarded only to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor's or professional degree. (A professional degree is usually earned after earning a bachelor's degree in a field such as medicine, law, or dentistry.) In some cases, you might receive a Pell Grant for attending a post-baccalaureate teacher certificate program.

The U.S. Department of Education uses a standard formula to determine a students financial eligibility, otherwise known as the Expected Family Contribution(EFC). Your SAR contains this number, in the upper right portion of page 1. This number will determine if you are eligible for a Pell Grant and for how much. Awards are prorated for students enrolling less than full time.

Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant(SEOG)

Federal need-based grant for families with EFC's between 1-1000. The maximum award is $1,000.

(Funds are limited.)

Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG)-Learn more about this new federal grant

National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART)-Learn more on how to qualify

State Grants

IOWA Grant

The Iowa Grant program is a statewide need-based program to assist high-need Iowa residents. Recipients must demonstrate a high level of financial need to receive awards ranging from $100-$1000. Awards are prorated for students enrolling less than full time.

"In the event that available state funds are insufficient to pay the full amount of each approved grant, the Iowa College Student Aid Commission has the authority to administratively reduce the award"

(Funds are limited)

Institutional Grants

UNI Grant

Institutional need-based grant for families with EFC's between 3851-6000. The maximum award is $1,000.

(Funds are limited.)

Child Care Grant Application