Grants for Students Attending Private Universities

The Iowa Tuition Grant

• Students at one of Iowa's eligible private colleges and universities can receive a maximum grant of $4,000 per year, as of June 2011. The grant is renewable for up to three more years, provided you attend full time; part-time students can qualify but will receive a smaller amount. In order to receive the award, a student must be an Iowa resident and be enrolled as an undergraduate at an eligible private college or university in the Hawkeye State. Further, priority for the Iowa Tuition Grant is given to students who have the greatest financial need.
  
  

The Texas Tuition Equalization Grant Program

• The state of Texas offers these grants to allow students with great financial need to attend private, nonprofit universities in the Lone Star State. For the 2011-2012 academic year, the maximum amount of this yearly grant is $5,277 for those with exceptional need (meaning that their Expected Family Contribution does not exceed $1,000). Additionally, Texas residents or nonresident National Merit Finalists must be enrolled in a qualifying Texas institution, taking courses leading to a first associate's, bachelor's, master's or Ph.D. degree." Students must maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 while completing 24 credit hours per year. That number drops to 18 for graduate students.
  
  

The Virgina Tuition Assistance Grant Program

• To qualify to apply for this grant, you must be a Virginia resident planning to attend an accredited private, nonprofit college or university in the state. You are not eligible if you are pursuing a theological education. The award amount is determined by the number of eligible students and the total amount of funds allocated for the purpose. For the 2011-2012 school year, the award was $2,650 for undergraduate students and $1,150 for those doing graduate work in a health-related professional program. These awards are renewable as long as you continue to meet all eligibility criteria.
  
  

The Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant Program

• The state legislature of Georgia offers the Tuition Equalization Grant Program grants to provide financial assistance to state residents planning to attend eligible private colleges in Georgia. As of 2009, the award amount was $233 per quarter or $350 per semester. Students can receive grants for up to four quarters or three semesters per year, and can renew their award as long as they remain eligible. Eligibility depends on complying with the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990 and making "satisfactory academic progress." The Tuition Equalization Grant cannot be renewed once students have received payments for more than 127 semester hours or 190 quarter hours.
  
  

Institution-Specific Grants

• Private colleges do a lot of fundraising and sponsor grants that are available only to their students. If you're attending a private university or planning to do so, you would do well to contact the institution's Financial Aid office. Not only can they inform you about grants for which you may qualify, but they can help you complete the many forms you'll need to fill out, including the FAFSA.