STUDENTS RECEIVE OVER $536,000 TO ATTEND IOWA LAKES COMMUNITY COLLEGE THROUGH THE LAST-DOLLAR SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

(Estherville, Iowa) The Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship program has paid off big for Iowa Lakes Community College students by awarding $536,627 to more than 270 students attending the Fall 2022 semester.

The Last-Dollar Scholarship fills tuition gaps not covered by other federal and state grants and scholarships for eligible applicants enrolled in qualifying programs teaching the skills needed in high-demand industries. As a result, graduates of these programs carry minimal student debt when they enter the workforce and typically obtain good-paying jobs.

“The Last-Dollar Scholarship is not need-based, so it is available to all students who qualify, but to be considered for the scholarship, students need to complete the FAFSA by the deadline. The Last-Dollar Scholarship has helped many students get their degree with minimal to no debt,” said Stephen Pelzer, Director of Financial Aid at Iowa Lakes.

Iowa Lakes has seen a significant increase in students taking advantage of the Last-Dollar Scholarship, with an increase of over 50 students and $140,000 more awarded compared to recipients in the Fall 2021 term.

“This year, we have more students than ever before qualifying for the Last-Dollar Scholarship. The numbers went up because more programs are eligible to receive scholarships, and students are taking advantage of the opportunity by completing the FAFSA early,” explained Pelzer.

The FAFSA will be available for the 2023-2024 academic year on October 1, 2022. The FAFSA deadline is June 30, 2023. Students must submit a FAFSA each year they plan on attending college to be considered for the Last-Dollar Scholarship and other financial aid options.

The following programs offered at Iowa Lakes Community College qualify for the Last-Dollar Scholarship: Agriculture Production Technology, Aviation & Airport Management, Business Administration & Management, Business Specialist, Computer Programming, Construction Technology, Criminal Justice, Digital, Social & Broadcast Productions, Electrical Technology, Environmental Studies, Farm Equipment & Diesel Technology, Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technology, Hotel & Restaurant Management, Nursing: Associate Degree and Practical Nursing, Paralegal & Legal Studies, Surgical Technology, Veterinary Technician, Water Quality Technician, Welding Technology, and Wind Energy & Turbine Technology.

For more information about the Last Dollar Scholarship, visit iowalakes.edu/lds.

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