Expanded scholarship options at BCU to increase access

Briar Cliff University announced earlier this month two initiatives to expand access to Catholic higher education for potential enrollees. One is targeted for low-income students and the other is designed to attract Catholic students.

The scholarship initiatives include the Catholic Connection Scholarship, which will provide a 60% tuition discount for Catholic students, aligning with the University’s mission and values. The Iowa Commitment offers tuition-free education for full-Pell Grant eligible Iowa students.

“At Briar Cliff, our mission extends beyond education; we cultivate a sense of purpose and faith that empowers students to lead meaningful lives,” said Dr. Matthew Draud, president of Briar Cliff University. “These scholarships embody our commitment to creating opportunities that transform lives and strengthen communities.” 

The Catholic Connection Scholarship
Briar Cliff University is also launching the Catholic Connection Scholarship, a program designed to support Catholic students with a 60% tuition discount. This initiative aligns with the University’s mission to nurture academic excellence and spiritual growth rooted in Catholic faith and Franciscan values. 

“We understand the sacrifices that Catholic families make to provide a faith-based education for their children. With the Catholic Connection Scholarship, we hope to honor that commitment by making a Briar Cliff education more accessible and affordable. We welcome students who seek a university experience that integrates faith into their personal and academic journeys,” explained Dr. Draud.

Full-time undergraduate students who identify as Catholic are eligible to apply. Students can apply as part of the standard admissions process and indicate they are Catholic. Additional documentation, such as a letter from their parish priest or a certificate of baptism, may be required. 

The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, contingent upon students maintaining a minimum 2.0 GPA.

 The Catholic Connection Scholarship provides financial support as well as an opportunity for students to deepen their faith, embrace service, and engage values-based campus community.

 The Iowa Commitment: Tuition-Free 
To help make higher education more accessible, Briar Cliff University has launched the Iowa Commitment, offering tuition-free education for full-Pell Grant-eligible undergraduate students residing in Iowa. This initiative was developed to remove financial barriers, empowering students to pursue their academic and career goals. 

Full-Pell Grant eligible Iowa residents who meet Briar Cliff’s admission requirements are eligible for the Iowa Commitment. The scholarship covers tuition and the mandatory undergraduate fee. Prospective students can apply through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and include Briar Cliff University’s FAFSA code: 001846. Eligibility is determined automatically based on FAFSA results. 

This scholarship is renewable annually for students who maintain Pell Grant eligibility, remain full-time, and stay in good academic standing. 

For more information regarding the scholarships, contact the BCU Admissions Office at (712) 279-5000. Additional information and scholarship opportunities can be found at briarcliff.edu/scholarships. 

Briar Cliff University is a Catholic Franciscan institution with nearly 1,000 students enrolled.  With over 30 undergraduate degree programs, several online degree completion programs and a host of graduate degrees, Briar Cliff supports students in all stages of higher education. For more information, visit briarcliff.edu.