USAC Grants for Study Abroad

A limited amount of USAC funding is available for grants to UI degree candidates participating on USAC programs. USAC Grants are based on either financial need OR merit OR both. The “statement of need” and GPA section below is required of all applicants, as is the essay.

Applications for USAC Grants should be submitted according to the application deadlines shown below. Applications will be reviewed and all applicants will receive notification of award status (yes or no) and the amount awarded, if any.

Eligibility

  • USAC Grants for Study Abroad are available only to students participating in programs offered by the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC). To be eligible for consideration, students must be
  • Undergraduate, full-time, degree-seeking student at the University of Iowa
  • In good academic standing at the time of application
  • Planned participation in a USAC program

USAC Grant awards are based on:

  • Financial need OR
  • Merit (GPA) criteria OR
  • Both
  • Essay

Application process
All applicants must complete the online USAC application, responding to the financial need question (yes or no) and/or entering their UI cumulative GPA (on a 4.0 scale). In addition, you must submit an essay of 500 words or less. This essay should include not only the country/location, and description of the study abroad program but also how the expected time abroad will contribute to your academic and personal goals. USAC Grants will be awarded to applicants based on either Merit or Financial Need criteria (determined by available funding).

Deadlines:

  • Winter: September 20
  • Spring: September 25
  • Summer: February 25
  • Fall: March 25

Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants will be notified of the outcome within a few weeks of the application deadline.

Students who have demonstrated financial need (as determined by the Office for Student Financial Aid) should also consider applying for the Study Abroad Need-Based scholarship.

Award
Varies
Scopes
Study Abroad
Deadline
03/25/2026
Supplemental Questions
  1. In which session will you be studying abroad?
  2. Please answer the following questions:
    • Anticipated departure date:
    • Country in which you will be studying:
    • Program:
    • Sponsoring Institution:
    • Total program cost:
  3. USAC Program:
  4. Please describe the reason for your request for financial support.
  5. By signing below, I certify that all information contained in this application is true and correct. I also authorize The University of Iowa to release copies of this form and pertinent information to the scholarship selection committee.
    • 1. Signature (Type Full Name):
    • 2. Today's Date