Drake University Scholarships (2026–2027)
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Last Updated on June 2, 2026
What This Page Covers:- Tuition, housing, and average family net price
- Automatic merit ranges and qualifier benchmarks
- Flagship and hidden-gem awards
- Honors and stacking strategy
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~64%
- Middle 50% ACT: 28
- Middle 50% SAT: 1245
- Average GPA: 3.68
🧭 Quick Admissions Strategy (based on where your student falls)
- Below the typical ranges: Drake is still very doable. Focus on a solid GPA and a well-rounded application — this can be a strong safety with meaningful merit potential.
- In the typical ranges: This is your sweet spot. You’re in line for strong automatic scholarships, so make sure you apply on time and present your academic profile clearly.
- Well above the ranges: Drake becomes a strong value play. You’ll likely hit the top merit tiers and could be invited to compete for full-tuition awards.
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Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 Drake University at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (National Alumni Scholarship (NAS) & Drake Physics Prize)
Average Net Price
$30,886/year
Average paid.
Automatic Merit
$1,500–$35,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
21 opportunities
3 automatic · 2 competitive · 15 hidden gem · 1 honors
Merit Evaluation
Holistic Review / Varies
Merit depends on profile rigor.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Dec 1 • FAFSA: Mar 1
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
National Alumni Scholarship (NAS) & Drake Physics Prize
Honors College
Honors Program Available
Financial Aid Forms
FAFSA Only
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at Drake University (Read This First)
- The full-tuition National Alumni Scholarship is highly competitive and requires a separate application and interview — most students will not receive it.
- The Bulldog Promise (full tuition) is only available to Pell-eligible Iowa residents — out-of-state families should not expect this level of coverage.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — Drake University is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 28; SAT: 1245.
Average net price? About $30,886/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
No — private school; same rate for all.
💰 Cost of Attendance at Drake University 2026-2027
📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 numbers are released.
Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.
| Category (2026–2027) |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2 semesters) |
$51,444 |
$51,444 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$12,876 |
$12,876 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$64,320 |
$64,320 |
Average Federal Net Price: $30,886 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Note: Drake is a private university, so tuition is the same for all U.S. students regardless of residency. It does not participate in state reciprocity programs like MSEP or WUE. Instead, families lower costs through Drake’s own scholarships—such as the automatic Presidential Scholarship and Bulldog Promise for eligible Iowans.
Cost & Aid FAQ
Who qualifies for lower tuition at Drake?
All admitted students are automatically considered for merit scholarships. Iowa residents who are Pell-eligible may qualify for the Bulldog Promise, which covers full tuition.
How much can scholarships reduce the cost?
Automatic merit awards can reduce tuition by $21,000–$25,000 per year, and competitive awards (like the National Alumni Scholarship) can cover full tuition.
Do I have to apply separately for discounts?
Automatic merit comes with admission. Special programs like Bulldog Promise and National Alumni require additional steps or earlier deadlines—see scholarship sections below.
Sources:
University COA Budgets: https://www.drake.edu/finaid/consumerinformation/costofattendancebudgets/
Drake Tuition Guarantee: https://www.drake.edu/admission/first-yearstudents/costsfinancialaid/draketuitionguarantee/
Student Accounts Tuition & Fees: https://www.drake.edu/accounts/tuitionfees/
IPEDS / NCES Profile: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/institution-profile/153269
BigFuture Cost Profile: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/drake-university/tuition-and-costs
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Automatic
Presidential Scholarship
📅 Deadline: December 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$27,000–$35,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
May stack with Legacy, talent, departmental, and Carpenter Scholarships; institutional tuition awards cannot exceed full tuition. Every full-time first-year student admitted directly from high school receives a Presidential Scholarship ranging from $27,000 to $35,000 per year.
💡
Strategic Detail
Automatic merit award for virtually all first-year undergraduates — 100% of eligible full-time students receive this. Not available to students in Bright College, the ABSN program, or online programs. Amount is based on a holistic academic review of GPA, course rigor, and optional superscored test scores.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Virtually every admitted first-year undergraduate — this one is truly universal. Amount varies by academic profile: top awards around $35,000 typically reflect a 3.8+ unweighted GPA with strong rigor; mid-tier awards in the $27,000–$31,000 range are common for 3.5–3.8 GPAs.
Automatic
Legacy Award
📅 Deadline: December 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with the Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards; applied to tuition only.
💡
Strategic Detail
A $2,500 annual tuition benefit for students with a Drake family connection. One award per student, renewable for up to eight semesters (four academic years) of full-time undergraduate enrollment.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Any admitted student who is a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of a Drake graduate — as long as that alum's degree was conferred before the student enrolls.
Automatic
National Merit Finalist (Drake-Sponsored)
📅 Deadline: December 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks on top of the Presidential Scholarship. Not available to students who receive a corporate-sponsored National Merit award.
💡
Strategic Detail
A Drake-sponsored $1,500 annual award that stacks on top of the Presidential Scholarship for National Merit Finalists who designate Drake first. Mutually exclusive with corporate-sponsored National Merit awards.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: National Merit Finalists who name Drake as their first-choice school with NMSC — the scholarship is triggered automatically by that designation.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Note: Ranges reflect current cohorts and holistic review. Other awards (like full tuition programs) may replace—not stack with—Presidential Merit.
Related: National Merit Scholarship
Automatic Merit FAQ
Is a test score required for merit?
No. Drake is test-optional for admission and merit; superscoring available if tests are submitted.
How do I maximize my automatic scholarship?
Apply by Drake’s priority dates, take rigorous courses, and submit strong test scores if they help you. Your final award reflects GPA, rigor, and (if provided) superscored tests.
Can automatic merit stack with other awards?
Often yes (e.g., Legacy, talent/departmental). High-value competitive awards (full tuition) typically replace the Presidential Scholarship.
Do I need a separate application?
No for Presidential and National Merit; Legacy Award is captured through admission form. Some other awards—see competitive/talent sections—require additional steps.
*Estimated GPA/test bands provided as university does not publish a tier matrix. Official award letters supersede all estimates.
Sources:
Drake University Scholarships — https://www.drake.edu/financialaid/scholarships/firstyear/
Drake Legacy Award — https://www.drake.edu/financialaid/scholarships/firstyear/#legacy
Drake National Merit Scholarships — https://www.drake.edu/financialaid/scholarships/firstyear/#nationalmerit
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
These scholarships go beyond automatic merit. They require extra applications, interviews, or auditions and are awarded to a limited number of top students each year. Winning one of these can make a big difference—sometimes even covering full tuition.
Full TuitionApp Requiredpipeline
National Alumni Scholarship (NAS)
📅 Deadline: December 1 · 📢 Results: Awards typically notified by March 6
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Most competitive Drake scholarship; one student per year gets a four‑year full‑tuition award and three others get $10,000/year—families should treat full tuition as possible but not typical.
🏫 3.8+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
The full-tuition NAS supersedes any other partial tuition scholarship offered by Drake, including the Presidential Scholarship. It does not stack — it replaces.
📄
How to Apply
Complete the Drake admission application and all checklist items by December 1. Submit the separate National Alumni Scholarship application by the same December 1 deadline. Semi-finalists are notified by January 29 and invited to select a virtual interview date in early February.
Selection criteria: Holistic evaluation of academics, leadership, service, work ethic, initiative, and interview performance. Minimum 3.8 GPA or top 5% class rank required to apply.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Drake's most prestigious scholarship — one full-tuition award annually, plus three $10,000 Carpenter Scholarships for top semi-finalists. The program is held virtually. Application opens November 1 each cycle; the December 1 deadline is firm with no exceptions.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Drake's very best first-year applicants: students with a 3.8+ GPA or top 5% class rank who can also demonstrate exceptional leadership, community impact, work ethic, and creativity. Only one student wins the full-tuition award each cycle — the bar is extraordinarily high.
App Required
George A. Carpenter Scholarship
📅 Deadline: December 1 · 📢 Results: Awards typically notified by March 6
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.8+ GPA👥 ~3 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
The $10,000 Carpenter Scholarship stacks on top of a student's Presidential Scholarship ($27,000–$35,000 per year), up to the cost of full tuition. This is a meaningful stack — together these awards can get very close to full coverage.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the National Alumni Scholarship process — there is no separate Carpenter application. Complete Drake admission and the NAS application by December 1. Semi-finalists are selected and notified by January 29; the top three who complete virtual interviews receive Carpenter Scholarships.
Selection criteria: Holistic review of academics, leadership, service, and interview outcomes among NAS semi-finalists. Minimum 3.8 GPA or top 5% class rank required.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
$10,000 per year competitive scholarship awarded to three top NAS semi-finalists. Accessed through the NAS application process — no separate application required. Three recipients per cycle.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: The three strongest NAS semi-finalists who didn't win the full-tuition award. If your student is in that top semi-finalist tier, this is a realistic outcome — $10,000/year stacked on their Presidential Scholarship is a substantial package.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Competitive Scholarship FAQ
Why are these called competitive?
Unlike automatic merit, these scholarships have limited slots and require extra steps such as applications, essays, or interviews.
Are competitive awards stackable?
Generally no. The National Alumni Scholarship and Carpenter Scholarship replace the automatic Presidential Scholarship, not add to it.
When are applications due?
Applications open Nov 1. Complete both Drake’s admission and National Alumni/Carpenter Scholarship applications by December 1 of your senior year. Finalists interview in February; offers made by March.
What can families do to increase their student’s chances?
Encourage your student to highlight leadership, service, and rigor in their application. Practice for the interview—finalists are invited for live or virtual interviews in February.
Sources:
National Alumni & Carpenter Scholarships — https://www.drake.edu/financialaid/scholarships/firstyear/#nationalalumni
Drake Scholarships Overview — https://www.drake.edu/financialaid/scholarships/firstyear/
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
Beyond the big automatic and competitive awards, Drake offers several programs that can quietly save families thousands. These “hidden gems” often serve specific groups—like Pell-eligible Iowans, students of color, or those pursuing service, leadership, or military pathways.
App Required
Center for Public Democracy Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 29
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential merit and other Drake awards up to tuition/cost of attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for the Public Democracy Scholars program by the stated deadline; must also be admitted to Drake as a first-year student.
Selection criteria: Holistic review focusing on civic engagement, public service, and commitment to democratic participation.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$5,000 per year for four years for students selected into the Public Democracy Scholars cohort.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with strong records of civic engagement, public service, or social justice interests who are admitted as Public Democracy Scholars.
App Required
Changemaker Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: January 29 · 📢 Results: March 20
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards up to cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for Drake admission and submit the separate Changemaker Scholars application by January 29. Both the admission application and all required materials must be submitted by that same date.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing civic engagement, leadership, service-learning commitment, and community impact. No minimum ACT/SAT required.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A four-year cohort program open to any major. Scholars receive $5,000/year plus exclusive access to mentoring, civic engagement experiences, leadership development, non-profit and start-up partnerships, and the opportunity to earn a Leadership minor. Students must enroll at Drake by May 1 to hold their place.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who are genuinely driven by community impact — not just good grades. Changemaker Scholars are civic entrepreneurs at heart: people who've started things, led organizations, or found creative solutions to problems in their communities. Any major is welcome.
App Required
Community of Digital Excellence (CODE) Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 29 · 📢 Results: March 20
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards up to cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Submit Drake admission application and all required materials by January 29. Complete the separate CODE scholarship application by January 29, including one essay response. Must declare a major in the Drake Digital Proficiency Platform (math, math education, computer science, data analytics, artificial intelligence, or information systems).
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing academic achievement, collaborative potential, financial need, and commitment to digital proficiency community engagement.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A four-year cohort scholarship for students majoring in math, computer science, data analytics, AI, or information systems. CODE Scholars commit to 40 hours of Digital Proficiency community service per year (e.g., tutoring, coding events, research) and monthly cohort meetings. If a student changes to a non-qualifying major, the scholarship is not renewed.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Tech-minded students who bring both academic ability and a collaborative, community-minded spirit. Preference goes to students with demonstrated financial need and a consistent record of taking math or computer science courses throughout high school. This isn't a pure merit contest — collaboration and unique perspectives matter.
App Required
Crew Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews
👥 ~60 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards. Not available to students receiving Tuition Exchange or students whose tuition is already 100% funded.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Drake and be admitted. Then complete the Crew Scholars application. Transfer students should contact the program director directly for a personalized application form.
Selection criteria: Holistic selection focused on commitment to community, campus involvement, and program participation. Three cohorts of 20 selected per cycle.
💡
Strategic Detail
$500 per year renewable tuition scholarship paired with a two-year mandatory cohort program providing social support, academic success resources, campus involvement, and leadership development. All Crew Scholars pledge to graduate and support fellow members. Not available to Tuition Exchange recipients or fully-funded students.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Domestic students of any major who want a close-knit, high-support community from day one. Three cohorts of 20 students each cycle — 60 spots total. Crew has an 88%+ retention rate and nearly 91% graduation rate, so the support model clearly works.
App Required
Fine Arts Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards.
📄
How to Apply
Contact the relevant Drake fine arts department directly to obtain scholarship information and application materials: Art & Design (drake.edu/art-design), Music (drake.edu/music), or Theatre Arts (drake.edu/theatre).
Selection criteria: Talent-based; criteria and process managed by each fine arts department independently.
💡
Strategic Detail
Available for students in art and design, music, or theatre arts who are seeking a fine arts degree. Award amounts and processes vary by department. Contact each department directly for application details and deadlines — criteria, portfolio/audition requirements, and timing differ across disciplines.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students pursuing fine arts degrees who demonstrate exceptional talent in their discipline — visual art and design, music performance or composition, or theatre arts. Each department manages its own audition or portfolio review process.
App Required
Fine Arts Scholarships
📅 Deadline: February 20
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,000–$10,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with Presidential and other institutional aid, subject to tuition and cost-of-attendance limits; continued participation in the relevant program is typically required.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Drake and schedule/complete an audition or portfolio review with the appropriate Fine Arts department (Music, Art & Design, Theatre) by the posted deadline.
Selection criteria: Evaluated on artistic talent, portfolio quality, audition performance, and fit within Fine Arts programs.
💡
Strategic Detail
Available to students in Music, Art & Design, or Theatre; not limited strictly to majors but requires ongoing participation and good standing.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who present strong artistic portfolios or perform well in music/theatre auditions, whether or not they major in the arts.
App Required
Global Leaders Corps
📅 Deadline: March 12
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.5+ GPA👥 ~10 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Study abroad grant ($3,000–$4,000) stacks on top of any existing Drake merit awards. Scholars also get priority access to paid employment and conference funding.
📄
How to Apply
Submit Drake admission application and all required materials by March 12. Attend a virtual or on-campus visit by March 12. Submit the separate Global Leaders Corps application by March 12, which includes two video essays. Log in using Office of Admission credentials.
Selection criteria: Holistic review of global commitment, intercultural engagement, leadership potential, and video essay quality. 3.5 minimum GPA. 8–10 spots per cohort.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A highly selective cohort program (8–10 students) for students committed to global leadership. The centerpiece financial benefit is a $3,000–$4,000 study abroad grant, plus priority access to paid employment, conference funding, and YALI/diplomatic engagement opportunities. Sponsored by the Principal Center for Global Citizenship.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with a genuine passion for international affairs, cross-cultural leadership, and global service — any major welcome. Only 8–10 students per cohort, making this one of Drake's most selective special programs. If your student has a track record of engaging with global issues or international communities, this is tailor-made.
App Required
Institute for Public Democracy Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 29 · 📢 Results: March 20
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards up to cost of tuition. Scholars may also apply for additional summer funding for unpaid internships or research.
📄
How to Apply
Submit Drake admission application and all required materials by January 29. Submit the separate Public Democracy Scholar application by January 29. Transcripts must be postmarked or submitted with the Drake application.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing civic passion, leadership, democratic values, and community engagement. 3.5 minimum GPA. Financial need considered as a preference factor.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A four-year $5,000/year scholarship for students committed to civic engagement and democratic leadership. Scholars participate in immersive programming, fully-funded travel, and leadership opportunities through the Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy. Open to any major. Students must enroll at Drake by May 1 to hold their spot.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who are passionate about democracy, civic leadership, and public participation — any major welcome. Scientists, artists, and activists are as important here as pre-law students. Preference given to applicants with demonstrated financial need.
Full TuitionApp Required
Drake Physics Prize
📅 Deadline: January 10 · 📢 Results: Semi-finalists notified by February 2; winners announced the week following February 27
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition
✔ Stackable
👥 ~3 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
First-place full-tuition award is unrestricted and renewable for four years. Second and third place awards are partial-tuition and also renewable.
📄
How to Apply
Submit a Drake admission application and the separate Physics Prize application by January 10. Application includes academic information, co-curricular activities, transcripts, recommendation letters, and an essay on 'Why I want to study physics.' Top senior applicants are selected by February 2 and invited to campus February 27 for the Physics Prize Test and program events.
Selection criteria: Phase 1: Application review of academics, activities, transcript, recommendations, and essay. Phase 2: On-campus Physics Prize Exam covering classical mechanics, waves, energy, rotational motion, and sound.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Running since 1970, the Drake Physics Prize is a campus-visit competition with three award tiers: 1st place — four-year full-tuition scholarship (unrestricted); 2nd place — Helmick-Cruisenberry partial-tuition scholarship; 3rd place — William Humphrey partial-tuition scholarship (aimed at students interested in computational physics). Top 20 finalists receive a certificate of achievement. No AI or outside assistance permitted during the exam.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-school physics students who excel on a challenging exam covering classical mechanics, energy, waves, and more — think AP Physics level and beyond. First place is a full four-year tuition scholarship to study physics at Drake, one of the most underrated full-ride opportunities in the Midwest for STEM students.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
ROTC Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Army ROTC: around March 4; AFROTC: varies, usually February–March.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition plus stipend
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
ROTC can cover up to full tuition plus a stipend; may be combined with other aid for housing, meals, and fees, but institutional tuition aid may be adjusted to avoid over-awarding.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for Army or Air Force ROTC scholarships through their respective national processes; meet academic, fitness, and medical standards; contract as a cadet while enrolled at Drake.
Selection criteria: National ROTC boards assess academic performance, leadership potential, physical fitness, and commitment to military service.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Includes Army and Air Force ROTC scholarships; provides tuition coverage plus living stipend for contracted cadets in exchange for a service commitment.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students committed to military service who meet ROTC academic, fitness, and medical standards; STEM majors may be prioritized in AFROTC.
App Required
School of Education Donor Scholarships
📅 Deadline: January 22 · 📢 Results: March 20
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,000–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards up to cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Submit Drake admission application and the School of Education scholarship application by January 22. FAFSA submission is not required but recommended since some donor awards factor in financial need.
Selection criteria: Holistic review across up to 25 donor funds; some awards weight financial need, others are merit-only. Single application covers all eligible awards.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Up to 25 different donor-funded scholarships available through one unified application. All awards applied toward undergraduate tuition. FAFSA not required but strongly recommended as some awards are need-based.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Future teachers — elementary or secondary education majors who apply by the priority deadline. Up to 25 separate donor scholarships are available through a single application, ranging $1,000–$5,000 per year. Some awards factor in financial need; filing the FAFSA improves your chances.
App Required
School of Journalism & Mass Communication Scholarships
📅 Deadline: January 25 · 📢 Results: March 20
✓ Renews (3.25 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards up to cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the Drake admission application and the unified SJMC Scholarships application by January 25. FAFSA submission is recommended as most awards factor in financial need.
Selection criteria: Holistic review across multiple named scholarships. 3.5 minimum HS GPA, demonstrated financial need (most awards), and SJMC major required. Single application covers all eligible SJMC awards.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Multiple named donor scholarships available through a single SJMC application. Most require demonstrated financial need and a 3.5 high school GPA. Renewal GPA is 3.25 for most awards. The SJMC Dean Team Scholars program ($500 book award) is included in the same application and provides networking with media executives and the Dean.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Aspiring journalists, broadcasters, magazine editors, and media professionals with strong academic records and demonstrated financial need. Named awards include the Katharine Futch Scholarship, Sheila Wolfe Award (Chicago-area preference), Woodward Endowed Scholarship, and E.T. Meredith Scholarship (preference for underrepresented students). The SJMC Dean Team is also available for a $500 book stipend with major perks.
App Required
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 22 · 📢 Results: March 20
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,000–$7,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards up to cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for Drake admission, then complete the Boys & Girls Club of Central Iowa Scholarship application. Submit by January 22 for priority consideration.
Selection criteria: Eligibility-based on B&GC membership; preference given to Greg and Suzie Burt Club at Drake members.
💡
Strategic Detail
Two renewable awards for Central Iowa Boys & Girls Club members. Available to all undergraduate students at Drake including Bright College students. Preference given to members of the Greg and Suzie Burt Club located at Drake's campus.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Current or past members of any Boys & Girls Club of Central Iowa location. Two separate named awards are available: the Jane and John Evans Scholarship ($2,500–$7,000/year) and the Kelly Caldbeck and Ted Thoms Scholarship ($1,000/year). Preference given to members of the Greg and Suzie Burt Club at Drake University.
App Required
Zimpleman College of Business Donor Scholarships
📅 Deadline: January 22 · 📢 Results: March 20
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,000–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards up to cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Submit Drake admission application and the unified Zimpleman College of Business Scholarship application by January 22. Include a personal essay. FAFSA recommended for need-based consideration.
Selection criteria: Holistic review across 35+ donor funds; some awards weight financial need, others are merit-only. Indicate actuarial science major to access those specific awards.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Over 35 donor scholarships available through one unified application for all Zimpleman College of Business majors (fall entry only). Actuarial Science students use the same application and should indicate their major to be considered for actuarial-specific awards. FAFSA not required but strongly recommended.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Business students — accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, actuarial science, data analytics, and more — who apply early. Over 35 separate donor scholarships are accessible through a single application, ranging $1,000–$5,000 per year. Some awards weight financial need; FAFSA improves your odds.
Full TuitionAutomaticgeographicneed_based
Bulldog Promise
📅 Deadline: March 1 (admission + FAFSA priority)
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition
✔ Stackable
⚠ Iowa residents who meet GPA and financial‑need criteria can attend Drake tuition‑free through Bulldog Promise; families still pay housing, meals, and other non‑tuition costs
🏫 3.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers tuition for qualifying Pell-eligible Iowa residents; other aid such as grants and scholarships may be applied first, with Bulldog Promise filling to full tuition.
💡
Strategic Detail
Tuition-only commitment program targeting Pell-eligible Iowa students with strong academics; must maintain Pell eligibility and satisfactory academic progress.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Iowa residents with Pell eligibility, 3.5+ GPA, and timely FAFSA filing who enroll full time and remain in good standing.
App Required
Zimpleman College of Business Dean Team
📅 Deadline: February 19 · 📢 Results: March 30
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.8+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential Scholarship and other Drake institutional awards.
📄
How to Apply
Submit Drake admission application with a first-choice major in the Zimpleman College of Business by February 19. Submit the separate Business Dean Team application by February 19, which includes two video essays. Campus or virtual visit by February 19 is recommended.
Selection criteria: Holistic review of academic achievement, business interest, leadership potential, and video essay performance. 3.8 minimum GPA; first-generation students receive special consideration.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Selective cohort program for high-achieving business students. Includes a $1,000 one-time book scholarship plus monthly Dean meetings, Des Moines business tours, enhanced class registration, stipend access, leadership development, and priority access to graduate business programs. Must maintain a 3.0 GPA to remain in the program.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Top-tier business students with a 3.8+ GPA who are genuinely excited about leadership in the private sector. Special consideration given to first-generation college students. The $1,000 is a book award — the real value is the Dean access, business community immersion, and enhanced class registration perks.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Disclaimer: Award amounts and GPA/test score notes reflect current published data or Drake’s official pages. Where no exact range was provided, an evidence-based estimate is given to help families plan.
- Departmental Scholarships: Many of Drake’s colleges (Business, Education, Journalism & Mass Communication, etc.) offer their own donor-funded awards with separate applications.
- Drake Grant: Need-based institutional grant awarded through FAFSA; amount varies each year.
- Federal Grants: Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) for qualifying students.
- Iowa Tuition Grant: State-funded need-based grant for Iowa residents at private universities like Drake.
Hidden Gem FAQ
Are these awards automatic?
No. Most hidden gems require an extra application or specific eligibility (like Pell status, identity, or ROTC commitment). The Bulldog Promise is the closest to automatic but still requires FAFSA filing and GPA review.
Can hidden gems stack with other scholarships?
Yes, in many cases. For example, Crew or Changemaker awards stack on top of Presidential merit. ROTC covers tuition but can also be paired with other aid for housing, meals, or fees.
Do these awards cover full costs?
Bulldog Promise covers tuition only. ROTC can cover tuition plus provide a stipend, but students are still responsible for housing, meals, and fees unless other aid applies.
When should students apply?
Cohort applications (Crew, Changemaker, Global Leaders Corps) are usually due in winter or early spring. ROTC scholarships follow federal board timelines, opening as early as senior year of high school.
Sources:
Bulldog Promise — https://www.drake.edu/promise/
Crew Scholars — https://www.drake.edu/crew/
Public Democracy Scholars — https://www.drake.edu/publicdemocracy/
Fine Arts Scholarships — https://www.drake.edu/artdesign/scholarships/
ROTC Scholarships — https://www.drake.edu/academics/armyrotc/scholarships/
🎖️ Honors College
Drake’s Honors Program is designed for curious students who enjoy reading, writing, and diving deeper into their courses. It’s not an extra year of college—it’s a flexible track that lets motivated students take smaller seminars, build close relationships with faculty, and complete a senior thesis project that stands out on grad school or job applications.
What a Typical Drake Honors Student Looks Like:
High school GPA in the 3.7–4.0 range*, strong writing and reading skills, leadership or service experience, and an eagerness to take on challenging coursework.
*GPA estimate based on Drake’s published Honors requirements and typical Honors cohorts; exact admission cutoffs are not publicly listed.
Honors Perks that Matter:
- Priority access to Honors Foundations courses if admitted by the March priority deadline
- Small, discussion-based seminars
- Dedicated faculty mentorship and a required senior thesis
- Honors designation on diploma and transcript
App Required
Honors Program – John August Book Award
📅 Deadline: March 5 · 📢 Results: April 17
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
👥 ~3 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Presidential and other institutional scholarships; covers qualified Honors Program book purchases only and does not reduce tuition cost.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for Drake admission, then complete the Honors Program application (which includes responses to three essay questions) before the March 5 priority deadline. Log in using your Office of Admission application credentials.
Selection criteria: Merit-based selection among Honors Program applicants, with emphasis on demonstrated willingness to engage in interdisciplinary, writing-intensive, discussion-centered learning beyond the student's primary major.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Three awards per entering class. Covers the cost of qualified Honors Track book purchases via reimbursement to the student's Drake account. Renewable each year as students progress through Honors Track requirements. Students in joint degree programs (Law 3+3, Pharm D, OTD 3+3) should check program-specific award duration rules.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Three students per cohort who are admitted to the Honors Program and demonstrate genuine intellectual curiosity and a readiness to engage in interdisciplinary, discussion-heavy, writing-intensive coursework — not just high GPAs.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
- Honors students are also eligible for Drake’s other scholarships (Presidential, National Alumni, Carpenter, etc.), which are awarded based on academic merit and leadership. These can be combined with Honors participation.
Honors Program FAQ
Is admission automatic?
No. Students must apply separately to the Honors Program, usually by the March priority deadline. Applications after that date are reviewed as space allows, but late admits miss out on certain benefits like the book award.
Does Honors add time to my degree?
No. Honors courses fulfill general education requirements and the thesis integrates with your major, so it doesn’t extend graduation time.
Are there extra scholarships?
Yes, the John August Book Award provides book cost coverage for students admitted to Honors by the priority deadline.
What GPA is required to stay in Honors?
Students must maintain at least a 3.2 GPA at Drake and complete the required thesis to graduate with University Honors.
Sources:
Drake Honors Application — https://www.drake.edu/honors/apply/
John August Book Award — https://www.drake.edu/honors/bookaward/
Drake Honors Program Overview — https://www.drake.edu/honors/
⭐ College Specialty
Drake University may be a smaller private school in Iowa, but it punches above its weight in a few areas. Families looking at health sciences, pharmacy, law, or journalism will find programs with strong reputations and direct career pipelines. Drake is not an R1 research university, but its professional schools and career-focused degrees carry weight nationally.
Pharmacy & Health Sciences: Drake’s College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences is consistently recognized for producing practice-ready graduates. Its PharmD program offers early assurance and professional partnerships that stand out across the Midwest.
- Journalism & Mass Communication: Accredited by ACEJMC and ranked among the top journalism schools in the Midwest, with award-winning student publications and a 97% placement rate within six months of graduation.
- Business (Zimpleman College of Business): AACSB-accredited and well known statewide for actuarial science, accounting, and analytics programs that feed directly into Des Moines’ insurance and finance industries.
- Law (Drake University Law School): One of the oldest law schools west of the Mississippi, recognized for its legal writing program and strong regional placement, including Iowa’s judicial and government sectors.
- Education: The School of Education is respected regionally for preparing teachers and educational leaders, especially in STEM education and leadership pathways.
Final Thoughts
At first glance, Drake’s price tag might make parents nervous—but once you factor in automatic merit, full-tuition competitive awards, and hidden gems like the Bulldog Promise, the real cost looks very different. Families in Iowa especially can see dramatic savings, while out-of-state students still benefit from generous merit ranges and specialty programs in pharmacy, business, law, and journalism. If your student is a strong academic performer and wants a private school with professional pipelines, Drake can be a smart investment.
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