The USDA has reinstated a scholarship program that gives students from underserved communities money to attend HBCUs for specific training, and the time to apply is now.
The 1890 Scholars Program was suspended in February, “pending further review.” The USDA later released a statement saying current recipients “over 300 — regardless of matriculation date, was retained to finish their studies and complete their work with the Department.”
The move was part of a directive by President Donald Trump to freeze, then review federal spending.
Last week, the site for the program was updated to say that the application process is open through March 15.
The program gave $19.2 million to scholarships for 94 students in fiscal year 2024. Per the USDA, it provided “full tuition, fees, books, room and board” to recipients.
Here’s what we know about the 1890 scholarship program.
The funds, managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), go toward increasing the number of students studying agriculture and related majors, animal science, botany, forestry and more. Nineteen 1890 land grant colleges, all Historically Black Colleges and Universities, are part of the program.
“The scholarship may also include work experience at USDA. The program is a crucial part of USDA’s Next Generation efforts,” the site for the program reads.
Alcorn State University in Lorman is part of the program. It’s the country’s oldest land-grant HBCU.
According to a December news release from the school, a dozen students were selected to be part of the 1890 Scholars Program.
“As an 1890 Scholar, I’ve had an incredibly enriching experience that has provided me with unique opportunities for academic and personal growth,” Vinterrious Hunt said in the news release. “My most rewarding aspect has been the opportunity to network and work with like-minded peers and mentors, as well as obtain a job with USDA Farm Service Agency as a student trainee during school and as a full-time employee after I finish my BS degree. This program has not only enhanced my educational and career experience but also instilled a sense of purpose and confidence in my future endeavors.”
According to the release from Alcorn, students in the program could get the chance to work with several agencies, including:
According to the USDA, these 19 HBCUs are part of the program:
The program was created in 1992.
“As we work to build a future agriculture workforce that represents American society, USDA NIFA’s 1890 Scholarships Program is a critical component for success. Since the program was authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill, NIFA has invested $92 million to support 3,274 scholarships to help recruit, engage, retain, mentor and train undergraduate students at the 19 1890 Land-grant Universities.”
National Institute of Food and Agriculture Director Dr. Manjit Misra, in an October 2024 news release
According to the site, people must submit their applications by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time Saturday, March 15.
Go to the 1890 National Scholars Program site to apply or get more information.
The program is open to high school seniors and rising sophomores and juniors at the college level. The application process was originally slated to be open through March 1.
The funds could be renewed each year, depending on academic performance.
According to the USDA, applicants had to meet the following criteria:
Students have to write two 250-500 word essays for both of these questions, according to the USDA site:
The USDA said scholars must study one of these majors:
Bonnie Bolden is the Deep South Connect reporter for Mississippi with Gannett/USA Today. Email her at bbolden@gannett.com.

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