 |
College can get pretty expensive. Fortunately, we're here to help you learn about low-cost and free online college opportunities in the state of Iowa.
Enrolling in online degree costs can save you money because you don't have to pay for room and board and many other fees that accrue when you are studying on-campus.
Continue reading to learn more about low-cost online degree programs and the Iowa schools that offer them.
List of Free and Low-Cost Colleges with Online Degree Programs
1. University of Northern Iowa
The University of Northern Iowa is a medium-sized public college in Cedar Falls. It offers over 90 majors and programs, many of which can be obtained online.
Some of these online degree programs include elementary education, accounting, liberal studies, human services, technology management, and criminal justice.
The cost of attending Northern Iowa University online is about $9,411 per year. This includes tuition and fees.
2. Northwestern College
Northwestern College is a small, private Christian college is located in Orange City, IA. Some of the online degrees and certificates offered include education, early childhood education, legal and medical interpreting, mental health counseling, and RN to BSN.
Despite being a private school, it offers very affordable tuition rates by Iowa's standards. Tuition costs range from $350 to $590 per credit hour, not including a $150-per-semester online fee. This works out to $8,700 to $14,350 per year on average.
3. Iowa State University
Iowa State University is located in Ames, IA. It offers both graduate and undergraduate degrees online, as well as various certificates.
Some of the programs include business administration, liberal studies, early childcare education and programming, aerospace engineering, and dietetics. Estimated tuition and fees cost around $10,133 per year for in-state online students.
4. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges
Eastern Iowa Community Colleges are a group of three campuses located in Davenport, IA. A variety of associate's degrees and certificate programs are offered.
Choose from subjects such as American sign language, cancer information management, data analytics, graphic arts technology, liberal arts, programming, and web development.
Online tuition costs $208 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state. This works out to about $5,000 per year on average, including a technology fee, though other fees may apply.
5. Des Moines Area Community College
Des Moines Area Community College encompasses six campuses around Des Moines, IA. Many flexible degree and certificate programs are offered fully online.
Some of these programs include entrepreneurship, history, English, journalism, political science, sociology, computer information systems, and criminal justice. Both in-state and out-of-state students can expect to pay $208 per credit hour.
How Can I Get an Online College Degree for Free in Iowa?
Iowa offers free tuition to some qualifying students through the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship Program. Students must be Iowa residents who have applied for all other aid and are enrolled in degree programs for specific high-demand jobs.
In addition to these programs, there are other forms of aid available.
Federal Student Aid
You can obtain financial aid from the government such as the Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. To request federal aid, you will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Iowa Tuition Grant
The Iowa Tuition Grant is a need-based grant available to in-state students planning to attend a private Iowa college or university. You must fill out the FAFSA to be considered for this grant.
Scholarships in Iowa
In addition to the Last Dollar Scholarship program, other scholarships may be obtained through your college or from outside organizations. Notable Iowa scholarships include the Brian Pearson Memorial Scholarship and the Iowa Scholarship for the Arts.
How Can I Cover Additional Online Degree Costs in Iowa?
Check to see if your school offers work-study programs, as these enable you to work off some of your college expenses. Some colleges also offer tuition payment plans, allowing you to make manageable monthly payments toward your overall costs.
If you are already employed, check to see if your workplace offers tuition assistance. Many employers offer this benefit, which can be applied toward your college studies.
FAQs Regarding Free Online College Degrees in Iowa
Does Iowa Help Pay for Online College?
Iowa's Tuition Grant and Last Dollar Scholarship Program are both available to qualifying in-state students. Both of these programs can help cover tuition costs.
What if I Can't Find a Free Online University in Iowa?
Iowa does not offer free online colleges or universities; however, you may be able to enroll in an online degree program for free with financial aid, scholarships, work-study programs, and tuition assistance benefits.
Is an Online Degree Cheaper than an In-Person Degree in Iowa?
In-person and online degree costs vary from school to school. In general, most online expenses are about the same as in-person expenses. By studying online, you will save money on room and board, but you may have extra technology fees.
Find a Free or Low-Cost Degree Online in Iowa Today
If you're looking to save money or obtain an online degree for free in Iowa, check out one of the colleges listed above, and don't forget to apply for financial aid and scholarships.
Feel free to reach out to Best Accredited Colleges with any additional questions you may have!
