USDA 1890 National Scholars Program

# USDA 1890 National Scholars Program The 1890 National Scholars Program is a U.S. Department of Agriculture scholarship created in partnership with the nineteen 1890 land-grant universities — historically Black institutions including Alabama A&M, Alcorn State, Tuskegee, and Prairie View A&M. Scholars receive financial support for their education from USDA along with paid work experience through summer internships, and the scholarship covers full tuition, fees, books, and room and board at the partner institution. The most recent application cycle closed March 8, 2026; the program typically reopens each January. ## What You'll Do - Apply online during the winter application window - Enroll at one of the nineteen 1890 land-grant universities - Pursue a bachelor's degree in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or a related discipline - Complete summer internships with USDA agencies, which may convert to full-time USDA employment after graduation ## Who Should Apply U.S. citizen high school seniors (the program also accepts rising college sophomores and juniors) planning to study agriculture-related fields at an 1890 institution. It targets students seeking a debt-free degree plus a federal career pathway in food and agriculture. ## Outcomes Scholars graduate with a fully funded degree, multiple summers of USDA work experience, and a direct pipeline into careers across the department's agencies.