10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Iowa

Iowa is home to many colleges and universities, and several of them offer online degree programs. At most of them, students can use financial aid through FAFSA to make their programs more affordable.

Online programs are a great way for busy students to continue their education. If you want to earn your degree in Iowa, keep reading to discover the best online colleges that accept FAFSA.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Iowa

By filling out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA), students can qualify for financial aid and find affordable online colleges in Iowa. Read on to discover 10 of the best online colleges that accept FAFSA in Iowa. Note that all schools listed are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

1. Briar Cliff University

Briar Cliff University is a private, nonprofit Catholic institution in Sioux City, IA. It offers online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in fields such as:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• nursing and healthcare
• social work

The university accepts federal financial aid and also offers scholarships to students. To qualify for these student aid programs, students will need to enter the school's code, 001846, when filling out their FAFSA online form.

2. Buena Vista University

At Buena Vista University (BVU), students can earn undergraduate and graduate degree programs online. BVU is a private, nonprofit university in Storm Lake, IA.

Online learning programs at BVU are available in areas of study like education, human services, and psychology. Students who want to use financial aid at the school should use the code 001847.

3. Grand View University

Distance education programs at Grand View University are offered only at the bachelor's degree level. Students can earn an online bachelor's degree in fields such as criminal justice, cybersecurity, human services, and paralegal studies.

Grand View University is a private, nonprofit, liberal arts school in Des Moines, IA. Multiple scholarships are available, and the university's FAFSA code is 001867.

4. Iowa State University

Iowa State University is a public research institution in Ames, IA. It offers bachelor's degree completion programs, graduate degrees, and certificate programs online in areas of study like:

• business administration
• early childcare education
• engineering
• healthcare

The university offers a wide variety of financial aid programs, and since the institution is public, Iowa residents pay a lower in-state tuition rate than out-of-state students. The FAFSA code for Iowa State is 001869.

5. Mount Mercy University

Students at Mount Mercy University can earn online bachelor's degrees and a handful of online master's degrees. Mount Mercy University is a private, nonprofit Catholic liberal arts school in Cedar Rapids, IA.

Online programs at Mount Mercy are available in fields such as business administration, education, healthcare leadership, and nursing. To qualify for financial aid, prospective students should use the code 001880.

6. Simpson College

The online and distance learning programs at Simpson College include undergraduate and graduate programs. These are available in areas of study like computer science, criminal justice, human services, and management.

Simpson College is a private, nonprofit, Christian school in Indianola, IA. College students can use financial aid to make their online education more affordable with the code 001887.

7. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa is a public research institute in Iowa City, IA. It offers online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in fields such as:

• business administration
• education
• healthcare and nursing
• social work

The university offers multiple financial aid programs and in-state tuition to Iowa residents. Its FAFSA code is 001892.

8. University of Northern Iowa

At the University of Northern Iowa, distance learners will find online bachelor's and master's programs. The University of Northern Iowa is a public school in Cedar Falls, IA.

Students will find online degrees in areas of study like business administration, criminal justice, education, and human services and can also take online courses that allow them to work at their own pace. The university's FAFSA code is 001890.

9. Upper Iowa University

Online programs at Upper Iowa University (UIU) are available from the associate degree through the master's degree levels. The institution offers majors in fields such as business, emergency and disaster management, health services, and social sciences.

UIU is a private, nonprofit university in Fayette, IA. It offers numerous financial aid opportunities, which students can apply for with the FAFSA code 001893.

10. William Penn University

William Penn University is a private, nonprofit institution in Oskaloosa, IA. It offers online undergraduate and graduate degrees in areas of study like:

• business administration
• education
• nursing and healthcare
• psychology

The university offers several scholarships and work-study programs to help online students pay for their coursework. Its school code is 001900.

Applying for FAFSA in Iowa

By applying for FAFSA, you may qualify for federal, state, and institutional need-based financial aid. We've gone over the basics of applying for FAFSA in Iowa below.

Eligibility

There are very few eligibility requirements to apply for the FAFSA. They include:

• you must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• you must hold a high school diploma or equivalent, or be close to completing one
• you're planning to attend an accredited institution of higher education in the coming academic year

All students who have financial need should fill out FAFSA. Even if you don't think you'll qualify for much, you might be surprised.

Steps To Apply

Applying for FAFSA can seem like a hassle, but it's not too complicated. To start, you'll need to create an account through the StudentAid.gov website.

Next, you'll gather your family's financial documents, such as tax returns and bank statements. If you're still considered a dependent on your parents, you'll need information from them, such as their Social Security numbers. If you're married, you'll need this information from your spouse.

You'll also need the school code for any schools you're applying to, even if you haven't been accepted yet. This ensures that those schools receive your FAFSA results.

It should take about an hour to fill out the FAFSA. After you've signed and submitted your application, you can view its status through your account.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Iowa

Iowa residents have access to several state-based financial aid programs that work alongside FAFSA to help reduce the cost of college. These programs provide funding for both traditional and online learners at public and private institutions.

Iowa Tuition Grant

The Iowa Tuition Grant offers need-based aid to Iowa residents attending eligible private colleges and universities within the state. To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need.

Online students at participating institutions can use this grant to help cover tuition and required fees. The award can be renewed each year for students who continue to meet academic and financial eligibility.

Iowa Vocational-Technical Tuition Grant

The Iowa Vocational-Technical Tuition Grant supports students enrolled in career and technical education programs at Iowa community colleges. Completing the FAFSA automatically determines your eligibility for this grant.

Online learners in eligible certificate or associate degree programs can apply the funding toward tuition and related expenses. The program is ideal for students pursuing workforce-focused training or short-term credentials.

Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship

The Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship helps cover tuition for students pursuing high-demand career programs at Iowa community colleges and select private institutions. To apply, you must complete the FAFSA and enroll in an eligible program.

Online learners in qualifying fields, such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and IT, can receive this aid. The scholarship is designed to help Iowans gain the skills needed for in-demand jobs without taking on excessive debt.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Iowa

FAFSA connects Iowa students to both federal and state financial aid opportunities for on-campus and online programs. Below are answers to common questions about costs and available funding options.

How Can I Make an Online Degree Affordable?

Choosing an in-state, public institution is often the most cost-effective option for Iowa students. These schools typically offer lower tuition rates and may have transfer agreements with community colleges.

Completing the FAFSA gives you access to grants, scholarships, and work-study programs that can help offset costs. You can also apply for additional state and private aid to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Can I Use FAFSA for Online College in Iowa?

Yes, you can use FAFSA for accredited online colleges in Iowa. Most regionally accredited schools participate in federal student aid programs, making it easy to apply grants or loans toward tuition.

Before enrolling, confirm your school’s eligibility for federal financial aid. Doing so ensures your funding is applied correctly to your online courses or degree program.

What State Financial Aid Programs Are Available for Iowa Students?

Iowa students can qualify for several state-based aid programs, including the Iowa Tuition Grant and Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship. These programs are designed to reduce tuition costs for residents pursuing education in-state.

Completing the FAFSA automatically determines eligibility for most of these opportunities. Applying early each year helps you secure the maximum funding available for your degree.

Find an Affordable Online College in Iowa

Iowa offers multiple federal and state financial aid programs to make online education more affordable. Explore accredited online colleges on Learn.org to compare degrees, discover scholarships, and find the right program for your goals.