Scholarships
Opening doors for UNI students
Scholarships make a UNI education for thousands of students each year. Your support gives Panthers the financial freedom to focus on their studies, engage fully in campus life, and graduate prepared to make a difference. Any size gift can truly impact today's and tomorrow's Panthers.
Unlocking student access and success
Whether you're establishing an annual or endowed scholarship, you have the opportunity to determine the selection criteria for recipients. In addition, you're invited to attend UNI's scholarship luncheon, where you can meet and connect with the student whose life has been directly impacted by your generosity.
Types of Scholarships
- Merit Scholarships
- Needs-Based Scholarships
- Transfer Students Scholarships
- Athletic Scholarships
- Graduate Scholarships
Where opportunity begins
"Receiving the Wallace & Ida Mae Nyweide Scholarship allowed me to focus on my education, rather than my finances. I’m incredibly grateful for the generosity that makes opportunities like these possible."
— McKenzie Riley
Elementary Education, '29
"It is because of donor support that I'm here studying at UNI and outside my country, and because of individuals like you, I feel that all my dreams and goals come true."
— Sebastian Fernandez
Business Analytics & Economics, '28
Scholarships shaping Our Tomorrow in 2024-25
$7,081,980
in scholarships and other financial support given to students
2,078
students received a UNI Foundation-funded scholarships
58
new scholarship funds established
Giving back to UNI provides a deep and personal connection for the Nordstroms
For Tom and Karol Nordstrom, giving back to UNI is deeply personal. As first-generation Panthers, their own experiences inspired decades of support for student scholarships. Each year, the UNI Scholarship Luncheon reminds them why they give, connecting them with students whose journeys reflect their own and whose futures they’ve helped shape.
Meet UNI’s inaugural Wilson Scholar
For Jenna Meyer, the David W. Wilson Scholars Endowed Fund Scholarship lifted the financial weight of attending college, allowing her to focus fully on her studies in human resource management. With the support of generous donors like David Wilson, Jenna is turning her dreams into reality.
Donors launch scholarship initiative for UNI nursing students
Scholarships and program funds established by generous donors are easing the cost of tuition, lab fees and essential school supplies — allowing students to focus on gaining hands-on experience and preparing to serve communities across Iowa. These gifts are fueling the growth of UNI’s nursing program and strengthening the future of Iowa’s healthcare.
Alumni couple invest in future teachers through scholarship
Rich and Dee James believe giving back is about creating opportunities for future educators. Their endowed scholarship has supported more than a dozen high-achieving math education students, helping them pursue teaching careers across Iowa and beyond.
Opportunity of a lifetime: UNI celebrates 100 Bright Foundation Scholarships, honoring Iowa legacy
The Bright Scholarship is transforming lives at UNI, giving students like Averee Kasik the confidence and support to pursue their passions without financial stress. Beyond academic success, the scholarship fosters a tight-knit community of scholars who life each other up, embodying the Brights’ vision of empowering Iowa students to thrive and make a meaningful difference.
Want to learn more about establishing a scholarship?
You can make a lasting impact by establishing an annual scholarship with a gift of $2,000 or more for three to five years. This commitment ensures consistent scholarship awards, opening doors to new opportunities and helping UNI students reach their goals.
Please share your contact information and some details about the type of scholarship you'd like to create. A representative from the UNI Foundation will contact you within a few days.