Academic Affairs

What the Committee Does

This committee is charged with identifying the needs of students as they relate to academics. This includes but is not limited to scholarships, classroom procedures, relationships among administration and students, class offerings, research opportunities, and test preparation. This committee often works closely with the General Education Curriculum Committee, within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and with the Office of the Provost.

How to Get Involved

Share your ideas and what you’d like to see with us by emailing us at USG-AcademicAffairs@uiowa.edu
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Why It Matters

The Academic Affairs Committee advocates for students in academic settings. It is vital that students' needs are correctly identified and effectively addressed. This committee helps bridge the gap between administration and students, ensuring students have a voice in university decisions.

Textbook Drive

A free resource for students to utilize where they can receive free textbooks to use for classes. The drive runs on donations, and students are encouraged to re-donate any books they take from the drive. Book donation takes place during finals weeks, and distribution takes place at the beginning of the semester.

UIGrades

Website that provides the grade distribution for past semesters. It includes the semester the class was held, the professor teaching it, the number of students, and the distribution of grades earned. This is a resource that should only be used after connecting with your Academic Advisor.

Campus Resources & Offices to Know

FAFSA

FAFSA: By completing the FAFSA, students may become eligible for grants, work-study opportunities, and federal loans. Many scholarships also require proof of financial need, which can be demonstrated through the FAFSA. While the application process can be complex, it plays a critical role in helping students understand their financial standing and reduce the overall cost of college. Resources are available on the FAFSA website to assist with the application process, and students are encouraged to reach out to the University of Iowa Office of Student Financial Aid for additional support. The Federal Administration has proposed changes to the FAFSA, and as updates become available, USG and the University of Iowa will continue to keep students informed and supported.

Iowa Scholarship Portal

Iowa Scholarship Portal: This website provides a comprehensive list of scholarship opportunities available to undergraduate students. By completing the general application, students are automatically matched with scholarships for which they are eligible. The platform also includes external scholarship opportunities in addition to those offered by the university.

Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft Copilot: University of Iowa students get free access to Microsoft Copilot, a generative AI platform. To get access students log into their University of Iowa email on the Microsoft Copilot website. We encourage students to use this resource mindfully and weigh its environmental costs.

Office of Student Financial Aid

Office of Student Financial Aid: For inquiries related to your financial aid report, please contact the Office of Student Financial Aid. The office provides comprehensive information on available aid options and application procedures. Their website also includes a detailed timeline of key financial aid deadlines, serving as a valuable planning resource for students.

Pomerantz Career Center

The Pomerantz Career Center: Great place to go to when exploring career paths/ opportunities. They provide Career Coaches and Peer Advisors, who can help you with resumes, cover letters, internships/ job searches, setting up Handshake and LinkedIn, and more.

Tutor Iowa

Tutor Iowa: Valuable academic support resource offering Supplemental Instruction (SI) for select courses, access to private tutors, and connections to campus help centers. The website also features academic tips, worksheets, and instructional videos to support student success.

Writing Center

Writing Center: Offers free services to help students improve their writing. Appointments are available both online and in person. The center also hosts events such as workshops to support students in developing their writing skills.