What is Iowa College Aid?

We are a state agency devoted to making college accessible for all Iowans. We are the only Iowa state agency with that sole focus. 

I need to apply for college financial aid. Where do I start?

The most important first step you can take is to file the FAFSA, followed by the Iowa Financial Aid Application. These two applications are required to qualify for federal and state grants and scholarships, work-study, federal student loans and many school-based aid programs.

How will I learn whether I’ve qualified for Iowa grants and scholarships?

Notification varies by program. If you qualify for the Iowa National Guard Educational Assistance Program, All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship, Governor Terry E. Branstad Iowa State Fair Scholarship or Education and Training Voucher, we will notify you at the email address you listed on your application. For other aid programs, including the Iowa Tuition Grant, your college will inform you that you qualify in your financial aid offer.

How can I tell if I’m eligible for Iowa grants and scholarships?

The FAFSA will determine your eligibility for many state programs. When you finish the FAFSA, you’ll see a prompt asking if you want to complete the Iowa Financial Aid application as well. That prompt leads to the “Eligibility Wizard,” a short series of simple questions to determine whether you might be eligible for additional state aid. If you’re not eligible, you’re done. If you meet initial eligibility requirements, you’ll see instructions to continue the application process for those additional grants and scholarships.

I’m a school counselor. How can you help me guide my students on their path to college?

Our Course to College program provides free resources, including programming materials, posters and handouts, and statewide data reports.

How do I order your booklets and brochures?

You can order our free publications here. Most are updated every August.

What if I have an issue with my college or university?

Fill out a Student Complaint Form. We accept concerns and complaints from any student attending an Iowa school and from an Iowa resident attending any school in the United States. We will review your submitted form and determine the appropriate course of action. You will receive a written response, and your dispute form will be retained for our records.