John Deere Scholars Program

John Deere Scholars Scholarship

Goal of Scholarship:The University of Iowa and John Deere believe a structured system of support from high school through college can prepare the next generation of leaders from our youth in Davenport. This scholarship is to provide the opportunity for students who demonstrate financial need to help eliminate the financial barrier. Each of the 20 Scholarships will cover the annual cost for tuition/fees and room/board within a student’s Cost of Attendance(COA) for four years, contingent on students remaining eligible each year.

Scholarship reviews are completed at the end of each semester. The cover of tuition and fees and room and board is in partnership with any federal, state, and institutional aid a student may be offered. The JDS award will serve as a last dollar in to meet the full cost of these pieces of the COA.

To become a University of Iowa John Deere Scholar Scholarship recipient, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Apply and be admitted to The University of Iowa.
2. Complete this John Deere Scholars scholarship application with essay.
3. Provide two (2) letters of recommendation
4. Apply for FAFSA by the University’s priority deadline, December 1st.

Note: Preferred, but not required, STEMM area of focus. Financial need as determined by the FAFSA is required.

Award
Varies
Scopes
Office of Student Financial Aid
Deadline
12/15/2025
Supplemental Questions
  1. I understand this scholarship is specific to the University of Iowa.
  2. What career aspirations do you have?
  3. List your extra-curricular activities:
  4. Have you been suspended or had disciplinary issues? If yes, please explain.
  5. Essay: Overcoming Adversity and Creating Impact: Your Journey to Higher Education

    In a 500 to 700 word essay, reflect on your personal journey and aspirations for the future. Your essay should address the following key areas:

    1. Overcoming Adversity - Describe a significant challenge or obstacle you have faced in your life. How did you confront this adversity, and what did you learn from the experience? Explain how overcoming this challenge has shaped your character and prepared you for the rigors of college life.

    2. Your experience in the John Deere High School Program - Reflect on your time in the JD High School program. What were the most valuable lessons or skills you acquired? Explain how you plan to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the JD High School program in your future academic and professional endeavors. Provide specific examples of how these learning outcomes will contribute to your success in college and beyond.

    3.Why should you be chosen as a John Deere Scholars recipient?Highlight your unique qualities, achievements, and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this scholarship. Discuss your academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, or any other relevant experiences that demonstrate your potential for success in higher education. What sets you apart from other applicants?

    In your essay, weave these elements together to create a compelling narrative that showcases your resilience, potential, and commitment to creating positive change. Be specific, use concrete examples, and let your unique voice shine through.

    Your essay will be evaluated based on content, clarity of expression, and your ability to effectively communicate your experiences and aspirations. Be authentic, reflective, and forward-thinking in your response!

  6. Letter of Recommendation Request: Please provide the name and email address for two individuals affiliated with your academic record and personal life who can provide a recommendation on your behalf. Make sure you have the person’s full name and correct e-mail address. This letter of recommendation should be written by someone who has known you for at least a year and isn't related to you. Examples of people to ask could be teachers, counselors, coaches, pervious/current employers, etc. Once the reference name and email address is entered and you click “Save and Keep Editing” or “Finish and Submit”, an e-mail will be automatically sent to the individual completing your recommendation. That e-mail will contain the correct information on how to complete the recommendation. Please notify this person ahead of time to expect an email from us. After entering your reference information, we recommend that you check back on the portal to ensure that the reference has completed the recommendation by the scholarship deadline. You can check the status by clicking on the “References” tab located at the top center of the portal screen.

    Please Note: • You (Applicants) are not able to view the information submitted by the reference. • If you decide to change the reference after an email has already been sent to the original reference, please contact the individual and inform them that the recommendation is no longer needed.

    • First reference:
    • Second reference:
  7. By signing below, I certify that all information contained in this application is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. Further, I understand that consideration for scholarships may be denied or revoked if any information is found to be incomplete or inaccurate. My signature acknowledges that the University of Iowa will include my academic record with my scholarship application and to release pertinent information to the scholarship selection committees. My signature below expressly authorizes the University of Iowa to share my name and email address with University of Iowa Center for Advancement for publications and thanking donors who made the award possible.
    • 1. Signature (Type Full Name):
    • 2. Today's Date
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