International Student Study Abroad Scholarship

Overview

International students who are currently enrolled at the University of Iowa are encouraged to consider participating in an approved study abroad program. This International Student Scholarship will be awarded via a competitive, merit-based application process. Eligible students must participate in an approved Study Abroad at an institution outside the United States (but not in their home country) for a summer or winter session (granting at least 3 semester hours) or semester (granting at least 12 semester hours).

One (1) $1,000 International Student Scholarship will be available for each session/semester. This scholarship is not renewable.

Eligibility Requirements

  • be an undergraduate international student (not holding a U.S. passport or U.S. permanent resident Green Card)
  • be in good academic standing
  • have a minimum 3.0 GPA (overall cumulative)
  • have completed at least 12 semester hours by the application deadline
  • propose to study abroad for at least one session/semester (summer, winter, spring, fall) not in their home country

Students must be participating in a formal, academic credit-granting Study Abroad program sponsored by the University of Iowa, another U.S. university, exchange organization, or may enroll directly in a foreign university.

Selection Procedure and Criteria

  • academic and personal objectives which are clearly defined and realistic
  • academic achievement and preparation
  • quality and completeness of the project proposal
  • contribution of the study abroad experience to the student’s overall academic program
  • evidence of maturity, motivation, and adaptability to a different cultural environment
  • demonstrated interest in learning about foreign cultures

Application Procedure

Students who meet the requirements listed above are encouraged to apply for this scholarship by completing and submitting the scholarship application and all required attachments by the deadline listed below. Applicants will submit the application, Statement of Proposed Study and Personal Profile essays, one letter of reference from a UI professor or UI Teaching assistant, and the unofficial grade report (available from the MyUI Student Portal).

Deadlines

  • Winter October 1
  • Spring October 31
  • Summer March 1
  • Fall June 1

Late applications are not accepted. Only completed applications on this Portal will be accepted and reviewed.

Award
Varies
Scopes
Study Abroad
Deadline
10/01/2025
Supplemental Questions
  1. In which session will you be studying abroad?
  2. Please answer the following questions:
    • Description of previous experience in foreign countries:
    • Destination:
    • Expected date of graduation:
    • Major:
    • Minor/Certificate:
    • Sponsoring Institution:
  3. Unofficial Grade Report: Upload your grade report
  4. Letter of Recommendation Request: Please provide the name and email address for two individuals affiliated with your academic record who can provide a recommendation on your behalf. Make sure you have the person’s full name and correct e-mail address. 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.

  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