Bright Scholars of Iowa
The H. Dale and Lois Bright Foundation provides the Bright Scholars of Iowa award. It is available to entering freshmen who will graduate from an Iowa high school and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to students whose parents have not graduated from an accredited four-year college or university.
The amount of the scholarship is equal to the cost of attendance minus all other gift aid (including Pell Grants, institutional grants and scholarships, and private scholarships). The cost of attendance is equal to tuition & fees, room & board, books, transportation, and personal expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
- Current senior attending an Iowa high school
- Outstanding academic achievement (299 RAI (Regents Admission Index) or higher, or ACT of 28 or above, or GPA of 3.7 or above)
- Demonstrate a commitment to learning and community service, as well as success in the face of adversity
- Have financial need as determined by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Priority to a child of parents who have not earned a four-year college degree
- Enrolling and maintaining full-time (12 credits or more per semester)
This award is renewable for an additional three years provided the student maintains a 2.50 cumulative GPA, and continuous full-time enrollment.
Application Process
- Complete the UNI Scholarship Application by February 7 and upload an essay describing how you have succeeded in the face of adversity in your life (no more than two typewritten pages). Also include a summary of your high school and community service activities, including leadership roles assumed.
- File the FAFSA prior to February 7
The Bright Foundation
Funds for the scholarship are provided by the Bright Foundation and recipients are expected to update the Bright Foundation each semester regarding their progress and college experience and meet with Bright Foundation staff during their first year. The Bright Foundation also provides additional opportunities for recipients, such as peer connections and networking, and dedicated staff support to enhance the college experience and help scholars to graduate on-time, debt-free, prepared to launch their careers, and give back in some way. While all enhancement opportunities are optional, scholars are expected to attend the Bright Scholar Reception on campus each fall and the state-wide Bright Symposium each spring. More details will be provided to recipients upon selection and information on past events can be found on the Bright Foundation website.