External Scholarships Related to CFANS Majors

Students have the opportunity to apply for a number of scholarships that are applicable to a variety of CFANS majors and are funded and reviewed by organizations outside the university. Click the following links to find scholarships with deadlines in the fall, spring, summer, or continuous through the academic year. Visit your department's website for additional scholarship resources related to your major.

Scholarships

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Scholarships

Fall Semester Deadlines

Fall Semester Deadlines

Minnesota Farm Bureau Foundation Scholarships 

Deadline to apply: September 30, 2025

Farm Bureau awards several scholarships at the annual meeting in November. Eligible applicants include any person who is a Farm Bureau member or qualifies under their family's membership. Applicants must be going into their junior or senior year in college and be enrolled in a program related agriculture, conservation, or forestry. Learn more. 


Throlson American Bison Foundation Scholarships

Deadline to apply: October 1, 2025

The Throlson American Bison Foundation awards scholarships to outstanding college junior, senior or graduate students studying fields related to the bison industry. Learn more.


Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship (SULI)

Deadline to apply: October 1, 2025

The Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship (SULI) program encourages undergraduate students to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers by providing research experiences at the Department of Energy (DOE) laboratories. Learn more.


Gates-Cambridge Scholarships

Deadline to apply: next deadline TBA

Covers the cost of a graduate degree program at Cambridge University for students in any academic discipline. Competitive applicants will have exceptional academic records, notable character, leadership and public service, and a strong rationale for studying at Cambridge. Learn more.


Minnesota Crop Production Retailers Scholarship 

Deadline to apply: November 1, 2025

This scholarship will be awarded by the Minnesota Crop Production Retailers (MCPR) to a student entering their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year in a major focused on crop production. Applicant must be a Minnesota resident; application involves two short essays, one letter of recommendation and official transcript. Download the application from the MCPR website.


Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council (MAELC) Agricultural Education for All Scholarship

Deadline to apply: November 1, 2025

The Agricultural Education for All Scholarship seeks to provide financial support for both undergraduate and graduate students, including those underrepresented within the agriculture teacher field. Undergraduate students must be entering their first year or currently enrolled in an Agricultural Education-Teacher Preparation program in Minnesota, which includes incoming freshmen, transfer students (transferring colleges/universities or majors), and current students. Graduate students must be entering their first year or be currently enrolled in the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Master of Science Initial or Additional Licensure program in Agricultural Education. Those firmly committed to teaching agricultural education in Minnesota should apply for this scholarship. Learn more.


Department of Entomology Insect Science Pathways Scholarship

Deadline to apply: November 15, 2025

The Insect Science Pathways Scholarship was established to promote a diverse student population rich in experiences, backgrounds and identities and to provide financial assistance for undergraduates who enroll in the Insect Science Minor. Two scholarships at $1,000 each will be awarded for the spring semester. Learn more.


Feed Your Future Scholarship

Deadline to apply: November 17, 2025

A $1,000 scholarship for students studying agriculture or intending to pursue a career in agriculture. Learn more.


Mid America CropLife Association (MACA) Young Leader Scholarship Program

Deadline to apply: November 19, 2025

The MACA Young Leader Scholarship Program (YLSP) is designed to expose future agriculturalists to the crop protection industry and future career opportunities. Recipients will benefit from exposure and networking with MACA members for potential job opportunities as well as financial compensation. Candidates will be top-potential collegiate sophomores or juniors with an educational focus on agriculture. Candidates must be enrolled at one of the 14 Land-Grant Universities and have secured a summer internship within agriculture, preferably within the crop protection industry. Recipients will receive a $2,000 scholarship plus an all-expenses travel stipend to attend the MACA Annual Meeting  - location TBD. Learn more.


Robert C. Hodson Memorial Research Scholarship

Deadline to apply: November 22, 2025

Up to two scholarships of $750 each will be awarded for the Spring semester. Applicants should have conducted, or be conducting, research activities in arthropod biology under the mentorship of a faculty member, graduate student, postdoc, or technical staff member in the Department of Entomology. Applicants must be undergraduates in good academic standing (minimum 3.0 GPA). Preference will be given to students enrolled in the Insect Science Minor, and to those who have not received the award earlier. Learn more.


Lake Minnetonka Garden Club Scholarships

Deadline to apply: November 21, 2025

The Lake Minnetonka Garden Club is offering $2,500 merit-based scholarships to students pursuing careers in the fields of botany, conservation and ecological restoration, garden history and design, horticulture, landscape architecture, native bird habitat, pollinator research, and urban forestry. Learn more.


Foundation for Environmental Agriculture Education (FEAE) Scholarships

Deadline to apply: December 1, 2025

Three scholarships are available for undergraduates pursuing a four-year degree in a major or discipline related to crop production, such as soil science, agronomy, entomology, horticulture, plant pathology, weed science, or crop science. Learn more.


Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarships

Deadline to apply: December 12, 2025

The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) is accepting applications for the 2025 Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarship awards, sponsored by CME Group and the National Pork Industry Foundation. A total of Ten $2,500 scholarships will be awarded to students intending to pursue a career in the swine industry and who exhibit excellent leadership qualities. Learn more.


Mann Lake Beekeeping Scholarship

Deadline to apply: December 31, 2025

A $1,000 scholarship for students enrolled in an apiology/entomology program, major in agriculture, environmental sciences, or other related studies. Award selection is based on a 300-word essay related to bees. Learn more.


Stromberg's Chicken Scholarship Program

Deadline to apply: December 31, 2025

A $1,000 scholarship for students enrolled in agricultural sciences and other related studies. Application involves a short essay on the subject of poultry. Learn more.

Spring Semester Deadlines

Spring Semester Deadlines


U of M Asian American and Pacific Islander Scholarship

Deadline to apply: January 15, 2026

The AANAPISI Scholarship is open to all U of M undergraduates who identify as Asian American or Pacific Islander (AAPI). Scholarship awards range from one-time $2,500 awards to multi-year $5,000 awards. Learn more.


Keller Scholarship in Conservation Horticulture

Deadline to apply: January 15, 2026

The Keller Scholarship in Conservation Horticulture, up to $5,000 each year, is awarded by The Garden Club of America and BGCI-US to undergraduate students. Scholars pursue experiential learning, with access to BGCI programs and resources, at a botanic garden in the United States. Learn more.


NCGA William C. Berg Academic Excellence Scholarship

Deadline to apply: January 31, 2026

The National Corn Growers Association and BASF Corporation will award five $1,500 scholarships to undergraduate students pursuing a degree in any field. Applicant must be entering at least his/her second undergraduate year at an accredited college or university. Applicant must be an NCGA member or son/daughter of an NCGA member. Learn more.


The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship

Deadline to apply: January 31, 2026

The Hollings Scholarship Program provides successful undergraduate applicants with awards that include academic assistance (up to $9,500 per year) for two years of full-time study and a 10-week, full-time paid ($700/week) internship at a NOAA facility during the summer. Successful applicants should be a full-time 2nd year student with a 3.0 minimum GPA. See the NOAA website for full application details.


Minnesota Corn Growers Association Scholarships

Deadline to apply:  varies by county (see website)

MCGA will award four $5,000 scholarships to full-time post-secondary students pursuing a career or degree in an agriculture-related field. Students must be young-adult MCGA members ($20 annual membership fee) to be eligible for a scholarship. Learn more.


National Garden Clubs Scholarships

Deadline to apply:  February 1, 2026

Multiple scholarships for students majoring in fields of study related to horticulture and the environment. Learn more.


Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council (MAELC) Undergraduate Education Scholarship

Deadline to apply: February 1, 2026

The purpose of the MAELC Undergraduate Agricultural Education scholarship program is to award scholarships to undergraduate students studying Agricultural Education with the intent of becoming a licensed agriculture teacher. Learn more.


Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council (MAELC) Agricultural Education for All Scholarship

Deadline to apply: February 1, 2026

The Agricultural Education for All Scholarship seeks to provide financial support for both undergraduate and graduate students, including those underrepresented within the agriculture teacher field. Undergraduate students must be entering their first year or currently enrolled in an Agricultural Education-Teacher Preparation program in Minnesota, which includes incoming freshmen, transfer students (transferring colleges/universities or majors), and current students. Graduate students must be entering their first year or be currently enrolled in the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Master of Science Initial or Additional Licensure program in Agricultural Education. Those firmly committed to teaching agricultural education in Minnesota should apply for this scholarship. Learn more.


Upper Midwest Dairy Industry Association Scholarship

Deadline to apply: February 10, 2026

The UMDIA Scholarship is for students pursuing a degree in Animal Science with emphasis in dairy, Dairy Science, Food Animal Veterinary Medicine, Dairy Manufacturing, Dairy Technology or Dairy Food Science. (Other degree programs may be considered if there is strong evidence of commitment and contribution to the dairy industry.) Learn more.


Minnesota Chamber Environmental Sustainability Foundation Scholarship

Deadline to apply:  February 27, 2026

The Minnesota Chamber Environmental Sustainability Foundation recognizes that a strong, responsible and sustainable future requires a knowledgeable workforce. This scholarship is designed to assist students interested in a career in environmental sustainability related fields.

Up to two recipients will be awarded a scholarship (up to $5,000 each) per academic year. One rising junior will be accepted per year with the opportunity to receive the scholarship again in their senior year. Learn more.


Western Reserve Herb Society Scholarship

Deadline to apply:  February 28, 2026

This national scholarship is open to college students majoring in Plant Sciences and related fields. $4,000-$8,000. Learn more.


Alan Peterson Agricultural Scholarship

Deadline to apply: March 1, 2026

A $2,000 scholarship for students who are residents of Minnesota and enrolled in an agricultural related major. Membership in 4-H, FFA, agriculture related clubs, and/or past/current involvement in ag related activities preferred. Learn more.


Agriculture Future of America Scholarships

Deadline to apply: March 5, 2026

One scholarship application is used for many awards; amounts vary between $1,600 and $3,200 and include admission to the AFA Leaders Conference. For students pursuing a career in the food, agriculture and/or natural resources industries. Learn more about AFA scholarships.


The Lynn Johnson – Johnson Brothers Scholarship in Entrepreneurship

Deadline to apply:  next deadline TBA

The Lynn Johnson – Johnson Brothers Memorial Scholarship in Entrepreneurship honors the legacy of Lynn Johnson, founder of the St. Paul-based Johnson Brothers Liquor Company. The scholarship will support full-time UMTC juniors and seniors, with financial need, who have a strong, demonstrated interest in entrepreneurial initiatives. 

Detailed information about qualifications and the application process for the scholarship is available at the UMTC Undergraduate Scholarship Search site. Click ‘Let’s Begin’ and find the link for the Johnson Brothers Scholarship Program.


Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry Scholarship

Deadline to apply:  March 31, 2026

For students entering Junior or Senior year; the successful applicant will be from the greater Rochester area which includes the counties of Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha and Winona. The successful applicant has demonstrated leadership and communication skills and is pursuing a career in sustainable agriculture and/or forestry. See application for more information.


FarmHouse Scholarship

Deadline to apply: April 13, 2026

The Minnesota Chapter of FarmHouse Fraternity is offering multiple scholarships of up to $1,000 for high school seniors or transfer students who are planning to attend the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. The scholarships are awarded based on the individual’s academic achievement, leadership experience, athletic involvement and career motivation, not their likelihood to join a fraternity. Learn more.


Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarships

Deadline to apply:  next deadline TBA

Open to students with demonstrated financial need and two years of full-time study left to complete their undergraduate degree program.  Scholars will receive up to $25,000 for each of their two remaining years plus $10,000 to support a summer work/study/research experience in-between.  Applicants must have a demonstrated commitment to a career of public service and must have US citizen, permanent resident, or DACA status. Learn more.

The UMN Office of National and International Scholarships is available to consult with any students on their applications.


Proven Winners Horticulture Scholarship

Deadline to apply:  April 15, 2026

At least three $5,000 scholarships will be awarded annually for innovations in plant breeding, horticultural marketing, and grower excellence. Applicants must be at least a sophomore and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. See eligibility and application details.


CCOF Foundation Future Organic Farmers Grants

Deadline to apply:  April 17, 2026

Grants of $5,000 to support students pursuing higher education related to organic agriculture. Eligibility requirements include demonstrated financial need and a strong commitment to a career in organic agriculture. Learn more.


Brule River Sportsmen's Club Scholarship

Deadline to apply:  April 30, 2026

A $5,000 scholarship for juniors or seniors preparing for a career in natural resources. Application requires two letters of recommendation and a personal narrative. Learn more.


American Floral Endowment Scholarships

Deadline to apply:  May 1, 2026

American Floral Endowment offers 24 different scholarships annually to students pursuing careers in floriculture and horticulture. Learn more.


The Meat Foundation Scholarship

Deadline to apply:  next deadline TBA

The Meat Foundation will be awarding one $10,000 Barry Carpenter Scholarship, along with several $5,000 scholarships. These scholarships are merit-based and open to all undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at an accredited university who are majoring in Animal, Meat, Poultry, or Food Sciences, enrolled in a Culinary Arts program, or are interested in pursuing a career in the meat industry. Applications require department support, and a transcript. Learn more.

Summer Deadlines

Summer Deadlines


Women in Agribusiness Scholarships

Deadline to apply:  next deadline TBA

Women in Agribusiness Scholarships defray the cost of attending the annual WIA Summit for students who have shown a strong interest in developing a career in the agribusiness industry. Scholarship benefits include registration for the Summit, shared lodging and meals provided at the event, and a 1-year WIA membership. Learn more.


Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council (MAELC) Agricultural Education for All Scholarship

Deadline to apply:  July 1, 2025

The Agricultural Education for All Scholarship seeks to provide financial support for both undergraduate and graduate students, particularly those underrepresented within the agriculture teacher field. Undergraduate students must be entering their first year or currently enrolled in an Agricultural Education-Teacher Preparation program in Minnesota, which includes incoming freshmen, transfer students (transferring colleges/universities or majors), and current students. Those firmly committed to teaching agricultural education in Minnesota should apply for this scholarship.