The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that applications are now open for the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program. This initiative aims to encourage students at 1890 land-grant universities to pursue careers in food, agriculture, natural resource sciences, and related academic disciplines.
Key details of the program include:
- Application deadline: March 1, 2025
- Eligibility: High school seniors entering their freshman year of college, as well as rising college sophomores and juniors
- Benefits: Full tuition, fees, books, room and board, plus summer internships at USDA
- Career opportunity: Noncompetitive conversion to permanent USDA appointment upon successful completion of degree and program requirements
Lisa Ramirez, Director of USDA's Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), emphasized the program's impact: "The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program enhances career opportunities for students at 1890 land-grant universities. 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 program is a partnership between USDA and 19 land-grant universities established under the Morrill Land Grant Act of 1890. In the 2024 cohort, 94 scholarships were awarded.
Interested students can apply online through the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program e-application system.
