51Âþ»­

51Âþ»­ is proud to announce two groundbreaking initiatives aimed at expanding access to higher education and fostering academic, spiritual, and personal growth for students. The Iowa Commitment offers tuition-free education for full-Pell Grant eligible Iowa students and the Catholic Connection Scholarship provides a 60% tuition discount for Catholic students, aligning with the University’s mission and values. 

These initiatives underscore 51Âþ»­’s unwavering commitment to fostering educational opportunities and building a supportive environment for students. By removing financial barriers and aligning with the University’s values, Briar Cliff continues to invest in the success and well-being of its students, shaping leaders who will impact their communities and the world.

“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 51Âþ»­. “These scholarships embody our commitment to creating opportunities that transform lives and strengthen communities.” 

The Iowa Commitment: Tuition-Free Education for Full-Pell Eligible Students 

To help make higher education more accessible, 51Âþ»­ has launched the Iowa Commitment, offering tuition-free education for full-Pell Grant-eligible undergraduate students from Iowa. This initiative removes financial barriers, empowering students to pursue their academic and career goals without the burden of tuition costs. 

Key Details: 

• Who qualifies? Full-Pell Grant eligible Iowa residents who meet Briar Cliff’s admission requirements. 

• What’s covered? Tuition and the mandatory undergraduate fee. 

• How to apply? Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and include 51Âþ»­’s FAFSA code: 001846. Eligibility is determined automatically based on FAFSA results. 

• Renewable? Yes, annually for students who maintain Pell Grant eligibility, remain full-time, and stay in good academic standing. 

Eligible students are encouraged to take the first step by completing their FAFSA and exploring the life-changing opportunities Briar Cliff offers.

The Catholic Connection Scholarship: A 60% Tuition Discount for Catholic Students 

51Âþ»­ 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. 

Key Details: 

• Who qualifies? Full-time undergraduate students who identify as Catholic. 

• How 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. 

• Renewable? Yes, for up to four years, contingent on maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. 

The Catholic Connection Scholarship provides more than financial support; it offers a gateway for students to deepen their faith, embrace service, and engage in a vibrant, values-based campus community. Prospective students are encouraged to apply for admission and scholarships to join a community where faith and academics come together to shape a promising future. 

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