Frequently Asked Questions

When did the program begin?

The program began in 2013 when former ISU President Steven Leath announced that students completing fifth grade at King or Moulton beginning in the 2013-2014 school year would be eligible for an ISU 4U Promise tuition award.

How does a student enroll?

Parents or guardians of students who complete 5th grade at King or Moulton must submit an online DMPS release form so that we can confirm eligibility and, if eligible, calculate the student’s tuition award.

What does a tuition award cover? What expenses are not covered?

A tuition award covers the cost of taking classes. Room, board, books, and other ISU fees are not included.

What if a child leaves the DMPS district?

Students who leave the DMPS district between 6th-12th grade are no longer eligible for an ISU 4U Promise tuition award, even if they return to DMPS at a later date.

What if my child gets another scholarship?

The tuition award may be combined with non-ISU scholarships or financial aid. If the youth is awarded another ISU scholarship, he or she will need to choose.

Do ISU 4U Promise Scholars have different admission requirements from other students applying to Iowa State University?

No. ISU 4U Promise Scholars must satisfy the same admission requirements as any other students applying to ISU. 

Are there programs to help make sure we’re ready?

Yes! We now have a graduate assistant who does outreach in the middle and high schools on a regular basis to talk to eligible ISU 4U Promise Scholars about what how to become more college ready.

Can we email or call you in Spanish?

Yes! We have staff who speak Spanish.

If admitted to ISU, what do students need to do in order to keep their tuition award?

To keep ISU 4U Promise tuition assistance while enrolled at ISU, students must remain in good academic standing by fulfilling the following three things:

  • Remain consistently enrolled at full-time status while at Iowa State University
  • Take and earn at least 12 credits per semester
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher

If ISU 4U Promise Scholars on campus wish to attend classes during winter or summer term, can they use their ISU 4U Promise tuition award to pay for those courses?

Unfortunately, no. ISU 4U Promise tuition awards can ONLY be used for tuition during fall and spring semesters. Students who choose to take courses during the summer or winter terms are responsible for their own tuition costs.

Need More Information? We’re Here 4U!

ISU 4U Promise

1218 Lagomarcino Hall
901 Stange Road
Ames, Iowa 50011-1041

515-294-4144

isu4u@iastate.edu