University of Dubuque Dedicated to an Accessible and Affordable Education

DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque is dedicated to providing an accessible and affordable education through the Iowa Tuition Pledge and Affordability Commitment.

UD's Iowa Tuition Pledge is a guarantee to every qualifying, high-achieving student from Iowa with demonstrated need that 100% of their tuition will be covered. That guarantee is part of UD's Affordability Commitment in which a UD education will be made affordable for all students through a combination of generous merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, and University grants.

"This pledge reflects who we are as a university," said Robert Broshous, MBA, vice president of enrollment management and dean of admission. "The Iowa Tuition Pledge removes a significant barrier for students with financial need and opens new opportunities for Iowa students to thrive at the University of Dubuque. When we invest in our students, we strengthen families, communities, and the future of our state. By eliminating tuition costs completely for qualifying Iowa students with financial need, we are ensuring that finances do not stand in the way of capable, motivated students who are ready to learn, lead, and serve."

Beginning fall 2026, the Iowa Tuition Pledge will cover 100% of tuition for qualifying new traditional undergraduate students through a coordinated package of federal, state, and UD financial aid.

To qualify, students must be an Iowa resident, demonstrate strong academic performance with a high school GPA of 3.3 or higher, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the State of Iowa deadline, which is Wednesday, July 1, 2026, for the 2026-2027 academic year, and be eligible for the full Federal Pell Grant based on FAFSA.

"The Office of Financial Planning continues to work closely with the Office of Admission to ensure students and families receive a comprehensive and competitive financial aid package," said Sara Sroka (C'12, MBA'13), MBA, director of student financial planning. "Through the Iowa Tuition Pledge and Affordability Commitment, students can pursue their degree at UD at an affordable cost. We are excited about the meaningful impact this will have on student access and success."

At UD, clarity and support is provided so every student can confidently pursue an affordable, high-quality, private education. Ninety--nine percent of undergraduate students receive financial aid from UD, and 68% of the student body is from outside of Iowa and benefit from the Affordability Commitment.

Regardless of where a student calls home, UD is committed to making a Spartans education affordable, attainable, and transformative for all students.

To learn more about the Iowa Tuition Pledge and Affordability Commitment, please visit https://www.dbq.edu/AdmissionAid/FinancialAid/.