WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting applications for the prestigious USDA 1890 National Scholars Program, a scholarship initiative aimed at fostering the next generation of leaders in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences. Eligible high school seniors, along with rising sophomores and juniors at participating colleges, are encouraged to apply before the March 1, 2025, deadline.
Administered through the USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), the program is a collaborative effort with the 19 land-grant universities established under the Morrill Land Grant Act of 1890. It seeks to encourage talented students to pursue academic and career paths in food and agricultural sciences, ensuring a future workforce capable of addressing critical challenges in these industries.
“The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program enhances career opportunities for students at 1890 land-grant universities,” said USDA OPPE Director Lisa Ramirez. “The program has also been an effective tool to help USDA recruit and retain highly qualified students into careers in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields.”
The scholarship offers substantial benefits to its recipients. Covering full tuition, fees, books, and room and board, it provides significant financial relief to students. Participants also gain practical work experience through summer internships at USDA, designed to complement their academic studies. Upon graduation, scholars are eligible for noncompetitive conversion to a permanent position with USDA, further linking their academic accomplishments to meaningful career opportunities.
Applicants must enroll at one of the 1890 land-grant universities and major in relevant academic fields, such as agriculture, food sciences, or natural resources. The program is open to both incoming college freshmen and existing college students, who are encouraged to apply via the USDA’s e-application platform.
The program’s track record underscores its impact, with 94 scholarships awarded to students in the 2024 cohort. By opening the doors to education for young minds in underserved communities, the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program continues to play a vital role in shaping a diverse and capable agricultural workforce for the future.
The USDA urges prospective applicants to seize this opportunity to advance their education and careers in partnership with the department and its affiliated institutions.
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