Drake Scholarships: Embarking on a college journey is an exciting milestone, but the associated costs can be daunting. Scholarships play a pivotal role in alleviating financial burdens, allowing students to focus on their studies and personal growth. Drake University recognizes this need and offers a plethora of scholarships to assist students in achieving their academic goals.
Types of Scholarships at Drake University
Drake University provides a diverse range of scholarships tailored to meet the varied needs and achievements of its students. These scholarships can be broadly categorized into merit-based, need-based, departmental, and special program scholarships.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Presidential Scholarships
Presidential Scholarships are awarded to incoming first-year students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance during their high school years. These scholarships are renewable for up to four years, provided the recipient maintains the required academic standards. The award amounts vary based on the student’s credentials and the availability of funds.
National Alumni Scholarships
The National Alumni Scholarship (NAS) is Drake’s most prestigious and competitive scholarship program. It is awarded to outstanding first-year students entering directly from high school. To be eligible, applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.8 or above on a 4.0 scale or rank in the top five percent of their class. The application process includes submitting a separate NAS application and participating in a virtual scholarship interview. Awards include one full tuition scholarship and three George Carpenter Scholarships of $10,000 each.
George Carpenter Scholarship
As part of the National Alumni Scholarship program, the George Carpenter Scholarship awards $10,000 to three top semi-finalists who complete their participation in a scholarship interview. This scholarship can be stacked on top of a student’s Presidential Scholarship, enhancing the financial support for exceptional students.
Need-Based Scholarships
International Student Grant
Drake University offers the International Student Grant to assist international students with demonstrated financial need. This renewable grant provides partial financial assistance and can be awarded alongside other scholarships. However, the total combined aid will not exceed 40% of the total cost of attendance. To apply, students must first apply for admission to Drake, after which they will receive a link to the grant application process.
Departmental Scholarships
School of Education Scholarships
The School of Education offers up to 25 different donor-funded scholarships to entering first-year or transfer students pursuing undergraduate degrees in Elementary or Secondary Education. These scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000 per year and are applied to undergraduate tuition. Applicants must complete a comprehensive scholarship application by the specified deadline to be considered.
Fine Arts Scholarships
Fine Arts Scholarships are available to incoming first-time or transfer students who demonstrate excellence in Art & Design, Music, or Theatre Arts. Applicants must apply or audition to be considered for these scholarships. Renewal is contingent upon satisfactory participation in the relevant fine arts discipline and maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
Zimpleman College of Business Scholarships
The Zimpleman College of Business provides financial aid tailored to recognize academic accomplishments and support students’ financial circumstances. Scholarships are available for International Business majors, typically selected during their sophomore year, with renewable funding as long as they remain in good standing with the program.
Special Program Scholarships
Changemaker Scholars Program
The Changemaker Scholars Program offers renewable $5,000 scholarships to entering freshmen who demonstrate a commitment to social change and innovation. Recipients must be enrolled full-time and maintain satisfactory academic progress. The scholarship is available for up to four years of undergraduate study or until a bachelor’s degree has been earned.
Crew Scholars Program
The Crew Scholars Program provides scholarships to incoming undergraduate students who are invited to participate in the program. Scholarship amounts vary but are at least $500 per year. Renewal is contingent on satisfactory participation in the program and maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
Inclusive Scholars of Digital Proficiency
This scholarship is available to entering freshmen planning to major in Mathematics, Mathematics Education, Computer Science, Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Information Systems. Recipients must be enrolled full-time and maintain satisfactory academic progress. The scholarship is available for up to four years of undergraduate study or until a bachelor’s degree has been earned.
Application Process
Applying for scholarships at Drake University involves several steps:
- Admission Application: Begin by applying for admission to Drake University, ensuring all required materials are submitted by the specified deadlines.
- Scholarship Applications: Depending on the scholarship, you may need to complete separate applications. For instance, the National Alumni Scholarship requires a distinct application process.
- Supporting Documents: Prepare and submit any additional materials required, such as essays, portfolios, or letters of recommendation.
- Interviews/Auditions: Some scholarships may require participation in interviews or auditions as part of the selection process.
- Deadlines: Adhere to all application deadlines to ensure consideration for scholarships. For example, the National Alumni Scholarship application deadline is December 2, while other merit-based scholarships follow the general admission deadlines. Always verify specific dates on Drake University’s official website.
- Financial Aid Forms: If applying for need-based aid, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the priority deadline to maximize eligibility for grants and work-study programs. International students may need to provide additional financial documents.
- Notification and Acceptance: After review, Drake University will notify selected recipients. If awarded a scholarship, follow the instructions to accept and fulfill any requirements for maintaining the award.
Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
Applying for scholarships is competitive, but a strong application can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to stand out:
- Maintain High Academic Performance: Many scholarships require a strong GPA. Work on achieving excellent grades in high school or college to meet eligibility criteria.
- Engage in Extracurricular Activities: Demonstrating leadership in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or student organizations can strengthen your application.
- Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Write an engaging and authentic essay that highlights your goals, challenges, achievements, and aspirations.
- Gather Strong Letters of Recommendation: Seek recommendations from teachers, mentors, or employers who know you well and can speak about your character and abilities.
- Meet Deadlines and Submit All Required Documents: Ensure that all application materials, including essays and financial aid forms, are submitted on time. Late applications may not be considered.
Renewal and Retention of Scholarships
Most scholarships at Drake University are renewable for multiple years, but recipients must meet certain conditions to continue receiving funding:
- Maintain a Minimum GPA: Each scholarship has specific academic requirements that students must uphold.
- Enroll as a Full-Time Student: Most scholarships require recipients to be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester.
- Participate in Required Activities: Some scholarships, such as the Changemaker Scholars Program, require continued involvement in community service or specific academic programs.
- Meet Renewal Deadlines: Some scholarships require an annual renewal application or confirmation of continued eligibility.
Additional Financial Aid Opportunities
In addition to scholarships, Drake University provides other financial aid options, including:
- Federal and State Grants: Students may be eligible for Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and state-based grants.
- Work-Study Programs: Part-time employment opportunities on campus help students earn money while gaining valuable work experience.
- External Scholarships: Students are encouraged to apply for outside scholarships from organizations, businesses, and foundations.
Support Resources at Drake University
Drake University provides various resources to assist students in managing their finances and applying for scholarships:
- Financial Aid Office: Offers guidance on scholarships, grants, and loans.
- Academic Advising: Helps students select courses that align with their educational and career goals.
- Career Development Center: Assists students with resume building, interview preparation, and job placement opportunities.
Drake Scholarships Program – Apply Now!
To apply to Drake Scholarships, make sure to complete the admission requirements and follow the application procedure. You can find more information on the following links:
FAQs about Drake Scholarships
1. What types of scholarships does Drake University offer?
Drake University offers a variety of scholarships designed to support a diverse range of students. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, athletic scholarships, and specific awards for students in various academic disciplines.
2. How can I apply for scholarships at Drake University?
Applicants are automatically considered for most Drake University scholarships upon submitting their admission application. For specialized scholarships, students may need to complete additional applications or provide supplementary materials.
3. What are the eligibility requirements for Drake scholarships?
Eligibility varies depending on the scholarship. Generally, merit-based scholarships require high academic achievement, while need-based grants consider financial need. Specific scholarships may also have criteria based on residency, major, or extracurricular involvement.
4. When is the deadline to apply for scholarships?
Deadlines vary by scholarship. Most scholarships that require no additional application have the same deadline as the admission application. It’s important to check the university’s financial aid website or contact the financial aid office for exact dates.
5. Can international students apply for scholarships at Drake?
Yes, international students are eligible for many of the scholarships at Drake University. Some scholarships are specifically designed to aid international students in covering tuition and other expenses.
6. Are there scholarships for transfer students?
Yes, Drake University offers scholarships for transfer students. These scholarships recognize academic performance at previous institutions and help make the transition to Drake more affordable.
7. Can I receive multiple scholarships from Drake University?
In many cases, students can combine scholarships from Drake University with other forms of financial aid. However, the total amount of scholarships and grants received cannot exceed the cost of attendance.
8. What happens to my scholarship if I change majors?
Scholarships tied to specific majors may require you to maintain enrollment in that major. It’s best to consult with the financial aid office to understand how changing your major could affect your scholarship eligibility.
9. How does Drake University notify recipients of scholarship awards?
Scholarship recipients are typically notified via their Drake University email account or through a letter sent home. Notifications include details about the scholarship amount, renewal requirements, and acceptance procedures.
10. Is there a way to increase the amount of scholarship I receive after the initial award?
While most scholarships have a set amount, students may be eligible for additional funding through external scholarships or as they achieve higher academic success at Drake. It’s advisable to regularly check with the financial aid office for new opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Drake University’s scholarship programs provide excellent opportunities for students to reduce their financial burden while pursuing a quality education. By understanding eligibility requirements, meeting application deadlines, and preparing a strong application, students can enhance their chances of receiving financial aid.
If you’re ready to take the next step, apply for Drake University scholarships today!
