The Bulldog Promise
100% TUITION COVERED. THE FUTURE YOU WORKED FOR UNLOCKED.
At Drake University, we believe in making a college education accessible to hardworking, determined Iowa students. That’s why we’re proud to offer both the Bulldog Promise and the Bright College Pathway—two full-tuition coverage opportunities designed to unlock access to a world-class Drake education from the top private university in Iowa.
The Bulldog Promise
Drake’s Bulldog Promise offers full tuition coverage for qualifying Iowa students seeking a bachelor’s degree. The Bulldog Promise ensures that your tuition is fully covered after scholarships, grants, and financial aid are applied and is available to both first-time college students and transfer students.
How to Qualify
First-time college students must meet the following criteria:
- Have a cumulative high school GPA of 3.5 or higher at the time of admission.
- Application for admission and all supporting documents must be received by March 1.
- Students must meet Iowa residency requirements (as defined by the Iowa Department of Education).
- Be a first-time college student entering Drake for the fall 2026 semester or beyond.
- Be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant by completing the 2027–2028 FAFSA before July 1 of the summer prior to fall enrollment. The 2027-28 FAFSA is now available here. Completing the form is the first step toward qualifying for full-tuition coverage.
Transfer students must meet the following criteria:
- Must have maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher at the collegiate level.
- Meet Iowa residency requirements as defined by the Iowa Department of Education.
- Must be a transfer college student, entering Drake in Fall 2027 or beyond.
- Must be attending Drake in pursuit of their first bachelor’s degree.
- Must be eligible for maximum Federal Pell Grant aid, as determined by completing the FAFSA before July 1 of the summer prior to fall enrollment.
Tip: Use the Federal Student Aid Estimator to check your Pell Grant Eligibility in just a few minutes.
The Bright College Pathway
The Bright College Pathway offers students in our John Dee Bright College full-tuition coverage for up to two full academic years to pursue an associate’s degree. Those who transition into a bachelor’s program at Drake after graduation will also receive robust financial aid. The Bright College Pathway does not require a minimum high school GPA.
How to Qualify
To receive full-tuition coverage through the Bright College Pathway, students must meet the following criteria:
- Students must meet Iowa residency requirements (as defined by the Iowa Department of Education).
- Be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant by completing the 2027–2028 FAFSA before July 1 of the summer prior to fall enrollment.
- The 2027-28 FAFSA is now available here. Completing the form is the first step toward qualifying for full-tuition coverage.
Tip: Use the Federal Student Aid Estimator to check your Pell Grant Eligibility in just a few minutes.
What if I don’t qualify?
100% of incoming full-time undergraduate students are guaranteed a Presidential Scholarship covering 51-66% of tuition costs, and additional merit-based and need-based options are available. For students who do not qualify for the Bulldog Promise or the Bright College Pathway, we offer a wide range of scholarships and financial aid to help make your education affordable.
