Scholarships

MAELC is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere that encourages individuals from all backgrounds to pursue teaching in agricultural education.  The purpose of the MAELC Agricultural Education for All Scholarship is to provide financial support for both undergraduate and graduate students. All are welcome to apply, including those underrepresented within the agriculture teacher field.

A shortage of high school agriculture teachers exists in Minnesota and nationally.   As a result, there is a tremendous need for more students to become licensed to teach agricultural education.  In addition, having agriculture teachers with various backgrounds and experiences improves students’ engagement in the classroom and feelings of belonging.   MAELC believes in assisting prospective agricultural education teachers that represents Minnesota’ student population who will foster supportive and welcoming environments for all students.

Applications are due February 1, 2026.
Note - applications may be submitted prior to formal acceptance into an Agricultural Education-Teacher Preparation program.

Eligibility -
Undergraduate Students - Applicant must be entering their first year or be currently enrolled in an Agricultural Education-Teacher Licensure program at Southwest Minnesota State University, the University of Minnesota–Crookston, or the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. This includes incoming freshmen, transfer students (transferring colleges/universities or majors), and current students.

Graduate Students - Applicant 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.

Students from a traditionally underrepresented group in the agriculture teaching field are encouraged to apply. Applicant must be a U.S. Citizen or permanent resident who is firmly committed to teaching in Minnesota.

Students are eligible to receive this scholarship more than once.

Selection - The MAELC scholarship committee will review applications and select scholarship winners. Selection criteria include academic merit, passion, and commitment to become an agricultural education teacher, as well as financial need. Priority will be given to those entering their first year or those who have not previously received MAELC scholarship funding.

Funding - Scholarships are awarded up to $5,000/recipient. Scholarship awards will be transferred directly into student accounts of successful applicants and may affect students’ financial aid package.

Materials - The application will require answering essay questions, and providing an unofficial transcript and resume.

Tips When Applying:

• Applications are reviewed for both content AND quality
• Focus responses on your current intentions related to becoming an agriculture teacher. Be sure to add information about your plans to use your agricultural education degree after graduation
• Remember that those reviewing the application do not know you –think about what you want the committee to know as to why you are deserving of this scholarship

Application - Please be prepared to answer the following questions (up to 300-word limit per question):

1. What inspired you to choose the agricultural education teaching profession as your career path?
2. How are you paying for your education? (work, loans, scholarships/fellowships, family, etc.) Are there any special circumstances or issues you would like the committee to know?
3. What are your career plans after graduating with an Agricultural Education degree? Specify how your collegiate studies relate to that plan.
4. Identify your beliefs, background, and life experiences that will contribute to Agricultural Education and its students. This can include, but is not limited to:
   • Your experience helping others gain access to resources necessary for success
   • Your experiences that influence your perspective on developing classroom environments where all are welcome and able to achieve their personal and educational goals
   • Your history and/or understanding of overcoming obstacles to achievement

Please note: it is highly encouraged applicants type all answers in a word-processor document, then copy and paste into the application.

A printable PDF of this information is available to download - Agricultural Education for All scholarship.

Questions can be directed to maelc@umn.edu or at (612) 624-6256.