Iowa Workforce Grant & Incentive Program

This program provides up to $2,000 in grant funding per semester for students enrolled full-time in eligible undergraduate programs of study at an eligible school. Students enrolled part-time can qualify for prorated award amounts.

Eligible Students

The Workforce Grant is available to:

  • Iowa residents who are enrolled in eligible undergraduate programs of study at an eligible school.
  • Enroll in at least three credit hours per semester.
  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on or before July 1.
  • Have an Student Aid Index at or below 7,000.
  • Eligible applicants who have completed at least 60 credit hours.

Award Amount and Limits

The statutory maximum award is $2,000 per semester for full-time students. However, the maximum award for an academic year may be less depending on the funding available and the number of projected recipients. 

The funded maximum 2024-25 award is $590 per semester for full-time students. Recipients can receive up to four full-time grant awards or the part-time equivalent. Part-time students may be eligible for adjusted amounts. Awards are available during the fall and spring semesters.

Priority for Awards

  • Iowa residents who received the Workforce Grant in the prior academic year.
  • New applicants with the lowest SAIs.
  • New applicants who are closest to completing an eligible program.

Eligible Schools

  • Iowa State University
  • University of Iowa
  • University of Northern Iowa

Eligible Programs

This list is based on job demand and can change every two years. Students whose programs are removed from the list will still be eligible for the Workforce Grant until they complete their undergraduate degree or leave school, as long as they meet all other eligibility criteria.

Workforce Grant Programs of Study and Incentive Payment Occupations

Required Application

FAFSA

Important Dates

July 1, 2024: FAFSA deadline for 2024-25 School Year

Workforce Incentive Program

Students who complete their undergraduate degree or teacher preparation program in the same academic year in which they receive a Workforce Grant can qualify for an incentive payment of up to $2,000 if they meet the following requirements:

  • Within six months of completing the eligible program, begin full-time work in a high-demand job in Iowa AND apply for the incentive payment.  
    • Directory of high-demand jobs 
      • Note: This list will change at least every two years. A Workforce Incentive Program (WIP) applicant must be employed in a job in Iowa that was on the directory for the year the grant was received or the most current directory and must meet all other criteria to qualify for the WIP.
    • The WIP application can be completed within the Iowa Financial Aid Application - https://educate.iowa.gov/higher-ed/financial-aid/ifaa
  • After 12 consecutive months of full-time employment in the job, Iowa College Aid will verify with the employer that the applicant met all eligibility requirements. If the applicant is eligible, Iowa College Aid will send the WIP directly to the applicant. The WIP is considered taxable income.