Goal of Scholarship

The University of Iowa and John Deere believe a structured system of high school through college can prepare the next generation of leaders from our youth in Davenport. This scholarship is to provide the opportunity for students who demonstrate financial need to help eliminate the financial barrier. Each of the 20 Scholarships cover 90% of the annual cost for tuition and housing for four years, contingent on students remaining eligible each year.

Requirements

  1. Apply and be admitted to The University of Iowa.  
  2. Apply for FAFSA by February 1.  
  3. Participate in the Davenport John Deere Scholars high school program throughout the year.
  4. Complete the John Deere Scholars scholarship application below.
    1. Demonstrate financial need in the application.
    2. Submit an essay through the application (see details below).
    3. Participate in an interview with the selection panel. (interviews will occur in January 2025)
  5. Provide two (2) letters of recommendation submitted to the email address below.
    Note: Preferred, but not required, STEMM area of focus.

Timeline

Applications will open November 1, 2024, and will are due December 16, 2024. A panel consisting of University of Iowa staff will evaluate all applications starting in January and select the 20 most qualified applicants to receive the John Deere Scholars scholarships. Winners will be announced in March and celebrated in May. 

Step 1. Apply to the University of Iowa

Apply to UI here

Step 2. Apply for FAFSA

Apply for FAFSA here

Step 3. Participate in the High School Program

See the program

Step 4. Apply for scholarship by Dec. 16

Apply for the Scholarship Here

STEP 5. Provide two letters of recommendation

Email letters here

Essay Requirements

Overcoming Adversity and Creating Impact: Your Journey to Higher Education

In a 500 to 700-word essay, reflect on your personal journey and aspirations for the future. Your essay should address the following key areas:

1. Describe a significant challenge or obstacle you have faced in your life. 

How did you confront this adversity, and what did you learn from the experience? Explain how overcoming this challenge has shaped your character and prepared you for the rigors of college life.

2. Describe your experience in the John Deere High School program. 

What were the most valuable lessons or skills you acquired? Explain how you plan to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the John Deere High School program in your future academic and professional endeavors. Provide specific examples of how these learning outcomes will contribute to your success in college and beyond.

3. Why you should be chosen as a John Deere scholarship recipient?  

Highlight your unique qualities, achievements, and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this scholarship. Discuss your academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, or any other relevant experiences that demonstrate your potential for success in higher education. What sets you apart from other applicants?


In your essay, weave these elements together to create a compelling narrative that showcases your resilience, potential, and commitment to creating positive change. Be specific, use concrete examples, and let your unique voice shine through.

Remember to:
 • Stay within the 500 to 700-word limit.
 • Proofread carefully for grammar, spelling, punctuation and clarity.
 • Be honest and authentic in your writing.
 • Use specific examples and personal anecdotes to support your statements.
 • Address all parts of the prompt thoroughly.

Your essay will be evaluated based on content, clarity of expression, and your ability to effectively communicate your experiences and aspirations. Be authentic, reflective, and forward-thinking in your response. Remember, the University of Iowa is known as the writing university, where art meets science and we value collaboration over competition in a college town like no other.

 

Please upload a .pdf file of your essay addressing the points above in the application in the application process.

Letters of Recommendation

Please ask two individuals to be your references. They will each need to write a letter of recommendation for you. This letter of recommendation should be written by someone who has known you for at least a year and isn't related to you. Examples of people to ask could be teachers, counselors, coaches, pervious/current employers, mentors, etc. 

Your letters of recommendation should be sent from the person writing it directly to the following email address: daod-oas@uiowa.edu

Please make sure they include your name and "JDS Scholarship" in the subject line.