Iowa Robert D. Blue Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Iowa Centennial Memorial Foundation

Here’s a clearer, teacher-style version of the information—organized so you can see eligibility, what to prepare, how you’ll be judged, and what must be mailed.

Overview
- The Robert D. Blue Scholarship is open only to Iowa residents who plan to attend an in-state college or university in the upcoming academic year.
- You may apply if you are a current high school senior or already enrolled in college.
- You must not have previously received this scholarship.
- Applications are accepted only online. The annual deadline is May 10.

Eligibility checklist (quick)
- Iowa resident
- Planning to attend an Iowa college or university next year
- Current high school senior or currently enrolled in higher education
- Not a prior Robert D. Blue Scholarship recipient

What you will be scored on (and the weights)
- Financial need: 45%
- Essay: 25%
- Academic performance (GPA): 20%
- Recommendations: 10%

Essay requirement
- Topic: Choose one person from your community (not a family member) who demonstrates the responsibilities of good citizenship. Write an original 500-word essay describing what this individual has done for your community.
- Tip: Be specific—use examples and show, don’t just tell.

Recommendations
- You must provide names and addresses for two recommenders (no family members).
- Recommenders may either give their letters to you to include with your mailed paperwork or mail the letters directly.

Application materials — what to have ready before you start the online form
- Transcripts: high school and, if applicable, college
- Federal tax returns: if you are a dependent, include parent/guardian returns; if not dependent, include your (and spouse’s, if applicable) returns
- Awards/grants statement from the college financial aid office (showing other financial aid you’ll receive)
- Names and addresses of two non-family recommenders
- Your original 500-word essay
- If you are not receiving financial aid, a letter from the college stating that no financial aid will be granted

What must be mailed after you complete the online application
- Two letters of recommendation
- Transcript(s): high school and college (if you are currently attending college)

Mailing address for letters and documents
State of Iowa Treasurer
Robert D. Blue Scholarship
State Capitol Building
Des Moines, IA 50319

Practical tips from a teacher
- Start early—give recommenders plenty of notice and a copy of your resume or activities list so their letters are specific.
- Proofread your essay and ask a teacher or counselor for feedback.
- When recommenders mail letters, have them include your full name and the scholarship name on the envelope or letter so documents are matched correctly.

If you want, I can help you draft the essay or a recommendation request email to send to your recommenders.