California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom Scholarship

Name: California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (CFAITC) Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,000 and $5,000

Information And Eligibility:
The California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (CFAITC) Scholarship supports students who are committed to advancing agricultural literacy, promoting understanding of California agriculture, and pursuing higher education in agriculture, natural resources, or related fields. Administered by CFAITC — the educational arm of the California Farm Bureau Federation — this scholarship encourages the next generation of leaders who will contribute to the sustainability, innovation, and vitality of California’s robust agricultural economy.

California is one of the most agriculturally productive regions in the world, and its success depends on educated individuals who understand modern agricultural systems, environmental stewardship, food security, and agribusiness. The CFAITC Scholarship is intended to help students with demonstrated interest in agriculture or agricultural education bridge the financial gap between their academic goals and the rising costs of college tuition and resources.

This scholarship is open to high school seniors, current undergraduate students, and in some cases graduate students who are enrolled in or planning to enroll in accredited postsecondary institutions. Eligible fields of study include, but are not limited to, agricultural science, plant and animal science, horticulture, agribusiness, sustainable agriculture, food science, agricultural education, environmental science, and related disciplines. The scholarship places value not only on academic promise but also on dedication to agriculture through community involvement, leadership, agricultural experiences, or advocacy.

Applicants are evaluated based on academic achievement, involvement in agricultural activities, leadership roles, and personal dedication to contributing positively to the agriculture sector. Applicants who have participated in 4-H, FFA (Future Farmers of America), school agriculture clubs, farm internships, or community agricultural projects often stand out. Additionally, the scholarship supports a broad array of students, including those from farming families, students who are first in their families to attend college, and those committed to addressing challenges such as sustainability, food system equity, and workforce development.

Scholarship funds can be used to help cover tuition, books, supplies, or other educational expenses associated with pursuing an academic degree that supports future agricultural or natural resource careers.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
• Must be a California resident (verify specific county or school district requirements for each cycle) or demonstrate strong ties to California agriculture.
• Must be enrolled in or planning to enroll in an accredited college, university, or agricultural program.
• Must be pursuing a degree related to agriculture, natural resources, or closely related fields (including agricultural education, agribusiness, food systems, environmental science, etc.).
• Strong preference for applicants with documented involvement in agricultural activities or leadership roles related to agriculture.

Application Requirements:

• Complete the official CFAITC Scholarship application form.
• Submit official academic transcripts demonstrating academic performance.
• Write a personal statement or essay describing your connection to agriculture, educational goals, career aspirations, and how the scholarship will support your journey.
• Provide letters of recommendation from teachers, advisors, agricultural mentors, or community leaders who can speak to your agricultural interests and character.
• Include any supporting documentation of agricultural involvement, honors, internships, or project work (optional but encouraged).

Additional Details:

• Award amounts and the number of recipients vary annually based on funding and applicant pool.
• Scholarship funds may be applied to tuition, books, supplies, equipment, or other approved educational expenses.
• Applicants with farm or agricultural community backgrounds are encouraged to emphasize how the scholarship will advance agricultural literacy and career aspirations.
• Recipients may be invited to engage with CFAITC programs, events, or agricultural outreach opportunities as ambassadors of agricultural education.

Deadline: Varies (typically announced each academic year)

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