The Bulldog Promise and Bright College Pathway cover 100% tuition
Drake University announced today two 100% tuition coverage opportunities—the Bulldog Promise and the Bright College Pathway. Eligible Iowa students can receive a 4-year undergraduate degree from Drake or 2-year associate’s degree from John Dee Bright College at Drake University—a popular pathway to a Drake bachelor’s degree. Both new programs provide full tuition coverage to qualifying Iowans. The initiatives reflect the University’s commitment to supporting Iowa’s highest-need students and to enhancing access to the top private university in Iowa and a top 100 private school in the nation, according to the Wall Street Journal.
“We believe that access to opportunity is a fundamental right. These programs provide the hardworking, talented students of Iowa access to a world-class education with aid that is equitable to their financial situation,” said Marty Martin, Drake University president. “A Drake education unlocks a return on investment that ranks in the top 3% nationally, and we want to provide that opportunity to more students, while helping the state of Iowa retain the best and the brightest future leaders.”
The Bulldog Promise
The Bulldog Promise offers full tuition coverage for up to four years of full-time undergraduate education to qualifying first-time 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. To receive full tuition coverage through the Bulldog Promise, students must meet the following criteria:
- Maintain a cumulative high school GPA of 3.8 or higher at the time of admission.
- Meet Iowa residency requirements (as defined by the Iowa Department of Education).
- Be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant by completing the 2025–2026 FAFSA before July 1 of the summer prior to fall enrollment.
- Be a first-time college student, entering Drake in Fall 2025 or later.
The Bright College Pathway
The Bright College Pathway offers students in Bright College at Drake full tuition coverage for up to two full academic years. This program is designed for students who are eager to pursue an associate’s degree before transitioning into a bachelor’s program. Since opening in 2021, Bright College has proven a successful pathway into a four-year Drake education with 84% of 2024 Bright College graduates going on to pursue their bachelor’s degree at Drake. The Bright College Pathway does not require a minimum high school GPA. To receive full tuition coverage through the Bright College Pathway, students must meet the following criteria:
- Meet Iowa residency requirements (as defined by the Iowa Department of Education).
- Be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant by completing the 2025–2026 FAFSA before July 1 of the summer prior to fall enrollment.
Other Important Details
- The Bulldog Promise is just that—a promise to support a student’s education by covering undergraduate tuition. If a student qualifies for their first year at Drake, their eligibility will not change if they do not qualify for the Federal Pell Grant in subsequent award years.
- Room, board, and meal plan costs are not covered under either offer, but there is no requirement to live on campus if you live with a parent or legal guardian within a 45-mile radius of campus, are married, or have been out of high school for two years or more.
Other Financial Aid Opportunities
For students who do not qualify for the Bulldog Promise or the Bright College Pathway, Drake offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid to help make education affordable. For example, 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. Prospective students can explore financial aid offers at Drake here.
Students who have questions can contact Drake’s financial aid office or find an admission counselor who’s ready to help.