Agricultural Studies: A Brief Introduction! Agriculture is not just about farming. It has come of age with enormous developments in engineering and science providing a range of career opportunities, including in plant sciences, technology, the food sector, and more. Top scholarships for agricultural studies in India and abroad have become a great motivating factor for students interested in this domain. It contributes towards food security, agricultural innovation, sustainable farming practices, and agricultural technologies.
Agriculture science is one of the rare sectors where you don’t always need to have proficiency to get started. However, if you do have such a qualification, then you are almost guaranteed to get a job, as agricultural graduates are in very high demand. Numerous scholarships are available across the globe and India to support students to pursue specialisation in the field of agriculture. Students interested in this domain will come across a broad range of financial aid to help them pursue their higher studies.
Let us apprise ourselves with a guide on comprehensive listing of agriculture scholarship programmes available in India and abroad. This article will provide a complete overview of these scholarships consisting of benefits, eligibility criteria, deadline, application link and more.
Scholarships for Students Pursuing Agricultural Studies in India!
A comprehensive list of scholarships meant to support Indian students pursuing studies in agriculture science in India and abroad is as follows:
- Corteva Agriscience Scholarship Program
- National Talent Scholarship (UG)
- ICAR-PG Scholarship and National Talent Scholarship (PG)
- Smt. Swarnamba. T.K. Gurusiddapa Scholarship
- Netaji Subhas-ICAR International Fellowships
- ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (JSP)
- Shouichi Yoshida Memorial Fund
- UAS Bangalore Sharans Vedanth Scholarship
- University of Sydney Roy Frederick Turner Scholarship (Agriculture)
Scholarships for Agricultural Studies: Eligibility, Awards, Application Timeline!
Let us explore the list of national and international scholarships for Indian students pursuing their studies in agriculture, their eligibility, benefits, application deadline and link.
Corteva Agriscience Scholarship Program
Corteva Agriscience Scholarship Program is an initiative of Corteva Agriscience India Pvt. Ltd. that aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious students willing to pursue post-graduation or doctoral courses in the area of agriculture.
Eligibility Criteria
- Pan-India students are eligible to apply.
- Open for female students pursuing studies in any year of post-graduation, MBA/M.Sc./M.Tech. or PhD courses recognised by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in the following streams:
- Home Science
- Biotechnology
- Entomology
- Breeding etc.
- Applicants must be pursuing their studies in government colleges only.
- Annual family income of the applicants should be ₹6,00,000 or less.
(Note:- Children of employees of Corteva & Buddy4Study are not eligible to apply.)
Benefits and Application Timeline
- The selected students will receive up to ₹50,000 basis actual submission of receipts which can be utilised only for academic expenses that include tuition fees.
- Application timeline is yet to be announced. Applicants are advised to register on Buddy4Study platform to stay updated.
Application Process
- Applicants can apply online on the official website of Buddy4Study at Corteva Agriscience Scholarship Program
ICAR Undergraduate National Talent Scholarship
The National Talent Scholarship was launched by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research for students pursuing a Bachelor’s programme in an ICAR-recognised agricultural university. This scholarship is initially awarded for one year from the date of admission.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a student pursuing a bachelor’s from an Agricultural University recognised by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
(Note: Applicants should be pursuing studies in Agricultural Universities in a State other than the State of their domicile.)
- Students should be admitted to the university through the All India Entrance Examination (AIEE).
- The university must be duly funded under ‘Strengthening and Development of Higher Agricultural Education in India’ programme of the Education Division, ICAR.
Benefits and Application Timeline
- The selected students will receive ₹2,000 per month for pursuing an undergraduate degree programme.
- Application timeline is yet to be announced. Applicants are suggested to register on Buddy4Study platform to stay updated about the application timeline.
Application Process
- Students can apply online on the official website www.icar.nta.ac.in of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
ICAR Postgraduate National Talent Scholarship
ICAR Postgraduate National Talent Scholarship is offered by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research for students pursuing a postgraduate degree program in an ICAR-recognised agricultural university.
Eligibility Criteria
- Students must have been admitted to the approved courses and Agricultural University (Note: Applicants should be pursuing studies in Agricultural Universities in a State other than the State of their domicile.)
- Applicants must have maintained merit and good conduct as certified by the Head of the college, university or institution.
- Students must not have accepted any other scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a student pursuing a bachelor’s from an Agricultural University recognised by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
(Note: Applicants should be pursuing studies in Agricultural Universities in a State other than the State of their domicile.)
- Students should be admitted to the university through the All India Entrance Examination (AIEE).
- The university must be duly funded under ‘Strengthening and Development of Higher Agricultural Education in India’ programme of the Education Division, ICAR.
Benefits and Application Timeline
- The selected students will receive ₹3,000 per month for pursuing a postgraduate degree programme.
- Application timeline is yet to be announced. Applicants are suggested to register on Buddy4Study platform to stay updated about the application timeline.
Application Process
- Students can apply online on the official website www.education.icar.gov.in of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Smt. Swarnamba. T.K. Gurusiddappa Scholarship
Smt. Swarnamba T.K. Gurusiddappa Scholarship programme in association with Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research aims to support graduate students who are academically proficient and financially needy.
Eligibility Criteria
- Students must be studying in the first year of B.Sc. Honors Agriculture degree.
- The family income of students should be less than ₹1,00,000 per annum.
Benefits and Application Timeline
- The beholder of the scholarship will receive a concession of an annual interest accrued on the date of the award of the scholarship.
- Application timeline is yet to be announced. Applicants are suggested to register on Buddy4Study platform to stay updated about the application timeline.
Application Process
- Students can apply for the scholarship programme offline by downloading the application form. Click here to download the application form.
Netaji Subhas-ICAR International Fellowship
Netaji Subhas-ICAR International Fellowship is offered by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and invites applications from Indian as well as overseas students. The fellowship is named as ‘Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NS- ICARIF)’ and the awardee will be called ‘NS-ICAR International Fellow.’
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be Indian or overseas national students.
- Scholarship programme is applicable to the following categories of students:
- Indian candidates for pursuing studies abroad in the identified overseas Universities/Institutions having strong research and teaching capabilities
- Overseas candidates for pursuing studies in the best Indian Agricultural Universities (AUs) in the ICAR-AUs system.
- Applicants must have a Master’s degree in agriculture/allied sciences field.
- They must have scored 6.60 OGPA or 65% marks or equivalent marks in PG degree.
- The candidates should not be more than 35 years of age.
(Note:- The upper age limit for in-service candidates will be 40 years).
- The in-service candidates from India should be employed in the ICAR-AU system.
- Detailed guidelines, priority areas of study and online application is available on ICAR Education portal: https://education.icar.gov.in/NetajiSubhasNotification
Benefits
- The fellows will receive the following benefits:
- Economy class air ticket for international travel.
- The overseas fellows will get economy-class-travel cost reimbursement.
- The scholarships details are as follows:
| Particulars | Maximum Amount | Lump-sum Payments towards Contingent and Preparatory Expenses |
| Indian fellows going
abroad |
US $2,000 monthly | US$ 1,000 monthly |
| Overseas fellows in India | ₹40,000 monthly | ₹25,000 monthly |
Application Timeline
- Applications for NS-ICARIFs are invited on an annual basis through announcements published in Indian national newspapers and the notification on ICAR website ‘http://www.icar.org.in’. Indian diplomatic missions in foreign countries will also be informed through e-mails.
- Usually the last date for online submission of application is by the mid of March. Last date for online submission of applications for this year was March 15, 2024.
Application Process
- Applicants can apply on the official website www.education.icar.gov.in/Fellowship/Loginfellowship of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program
The Asian Development Bank (ADB)-Japan Scholarship Program (JSP) offers opportunities to ADB’s developing member countries for postgraduate studies in agriculture, economics, science and technology, and management.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be nationals of an ADB developing member country. They should not be holding dual citizenship in any developed country.
- Students must have a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent with good academic records.
- Applicants must have a minimum of 2 years of working experience.
- Applicant’s age must not be not more than 35 years at the time of application, however, for senior officials and managers the applicable age limit is 45 years.
- Applicants must agree to return to their home country after having completed the programme.
- Students must demonstrate good health.
Benefits and Application Timeline
- The selected students will receive:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly subsistence allowance (including housing)
- Books and instructional materials
- Medical insurance
- Travel expenses
- The application timeline is yet to be announced. Applicants are suggested to register on Buddy4Study platform to stay updated about the application timeline.
Application Process
- The selected students can apply on the official website www.adb.org/work-with-us/careers/japan-scholarship-program of the Asian Development Bank.
Shouichi Yoshida Memorial Fund
The Shouichi Yoshida Memorial Fund is offered in memory of Shouichi Yoshida. The Shouichi Yoshida Memorial Scholarship (SYMS) is granted to students of any nationality, coming from economically handicapped families and gifted intellectually. The field of specialisation is agriculture and the fellowship is restricted to the first university degree to be operated only in institutes in the Philippines.
Eligibility Criteria
- Students must have good academic excellence records and be economically needy.
- The students must pursue agriculture as their field of specialisation.
- Applicants should pass the University of the Philippines College Admission (UPCAT) and National Secondary Assessment Test (NSAT) exams.
- Students must be proficient in English and have good moral character.
Benefits and Application Deadline
- The selected students will receive:
- A stipend of P2,000 (Philippine pesos) per month for 10 months per school year for students from the University of the Philippines at Los Baños (Municipality of Los Baños) along with tuition, matriculation and miscellaneous school fees.
- Scholarship of P1,800 per month for 10 months per school year for students from other agricultural universities in the Philippines plus tuition, matriculation and miscellaneous school fees.
- Application deadline is May 31 of each year.
Application Process
- The students can apply on the official website education.irri.org/scholarships/shouichi-yoshida-memorial-fund/ of IRRI Education.
UAS Bangalore Sharans Vedanth Scholarship
The Sharans Vedanth Scholarship is associated with the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore. The scholarship programme is focused on helping students in their academic pursuits within the agricultural sciences.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must have studied up to Class 10 in rural areas.
- Applicants should have been admitted to any undergraduate degree programme of UAS, Bangalore.
- They must submit the income certificate.
- Applicants must not have received any financial aid/scholarship from the Government or any other sources.
Benefits and Application Deadline
- The selected students will receive ₹12,000 per semester for a period of 8 semesters.
- The application timeline is yet to be announced. Applicants are suggested to register on Buddy4Study platform to stay updated about the application timeline.
Application Process
- The students can apply on the official website www.uasbangalore.edu.in of UAS Bangalore.
Other Relevant Programmes
Other relevant programmes supporting studies and research in Agricultural Sciences and allied areas are listed hereafter for the benefit of Indian students.
- DBT Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
This is a biotechnology-based fellowship programme supporting research in agricultural sciences and allied areas.
- IARI PhD Scholarship
Indian Agricultural Research Institute offers scholarships to PhD students in various agricultural disciplines.
- ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) Scholarship
ICAR-IIHR offers scholarship support to students pursuing M.Sc. and PhD in Horticulture and related fields.
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP)
CSFP offers scholarships for Master’s and PhD study in the UK, including agricultural disciplines.
- Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship programme supports Indian students, researchers, and professionals to study, pursue research, or teach in the United States, including agricultural sciences.
- Australia Awards Scholarships
Australia Awards Scholarships programme provides opportunities for Indian students to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian universities, including agricultural programs.
- Netherlands Fellowship Programs (NFP)
The Netherlands Fellowship Programs offers fellowships for short courses, Master’s degree programs, and PhD studies in the Netherlands, including agricultural sciences.
- DAAD Scholarships
DAAD scholarship programme provides a range of scholarship support to Indian students to pursue their studies in Germany, including fields related to agriculture.
- New Zealand Scholarships
Under the New Zealand Scholarships programme, scholarship support is offered to Indian students to pursue studies in agriculture and related subjects at New Zealand universities.
Scholarships for Agriculture Students: General Documentation Requirements!
The list of some of the commonly required documents for applying to agriculture scholarship programmes is as under:
- Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card/Voter ID/Driving License/PAN Card)
- Photograph of the Applicant
- Marksheet of the Last Qualifying Exam
- Enrollment/Admission Proof
- Financial Statements ( Fee receipt of educational-related expenses such as tuition fees, hostel fees, books, etc.)
- Letter of Recommendation from Teachers, Professors, or Employers
- Personal Statement
- Proof of Family Income such as ITR, Salary Slips, Income Certificate etc.
Also Read: Corteva Agriscience Scholarship Program – Supporting Women in Agriculture Field
Prerequisites and Requirements before Actual Application
- Plan and Start Early: It is important to do research with diligence and apply well in advance before the application deadlines.
- Applicants must ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria.
- Applicants must prepare all required documents, such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and essays well in advance to take corrective measures and add value.
- Connecting with the network of alumni or professionals who have received similar scholarships for guidance is extremely helpful.
- Language proficiency required for international scholarships must be ensured. Good performance in TOEFL, IELTS exams prove decisive.
- Last but not the least each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines. It is therefore vital to research every opportunity thoroughly and tailor your application accordingly.
FAQs on Scholarships for Students Pursuing Agricultural Studies!
Does agricultural studies offer a good career prospect?
It does and moreover agriculture is not just about farming. It has come of age with enormous developments in engineering and science providing a range of career opportunities, including in plant sciences, technology, the food sector, and more.
Suggest some of the top scholarships available for Indian students pursuing agriculture in India?
Some of the top scholarships available for Indian students pursuing agriculture in India are as under:
- ICAR National Talent Scholarship (NTS) that is offered by ICAR for undergraduate and postgraduate students in agricultural education.
- DBT Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) offers support for pursuing research in agricultural sciences and biotechnology.
- IARI PhD Scholarship provides financial assistance to PhD students at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute.
- ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) Scholarship is available for M.Sc. and PhD students in horticulture and related fields.
What are the prominent scholarships available for Indian students for pursuing agricultural studies abroad?
Some of the prominent scholarships available for Indian students for pursuing agricultural studies abroad are as follows:
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) that offers opportunities for Master’s and PhD study in agricultural disciplines in the UK.
- Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship offers support to Indian students, researchers, and professionals to study, research, or teach in the United States that also includes agricultural sciences.
- Australia Awards Scholarships provide financial assistance to Indian students willing to undertake undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Australia that also includes agricultural programs.
- Netherlands Fellowship Programs (NFP) offers fellowships for Master’s and PhD studies in agricultural sciences in the Netherlands.
- DAAD Scholarships provide various scholarship support to Indian students willing to pursue studies in Germany, including fields related to agriculture.
- New Zealand Scholarships programme offers funding for Indian students pursuing agriculture and related subjects at New Zealand universities.
How can Indian students apply for these scholarships?
It is important for the Indian students to do a thorough research for each scholarship opportunity available, understand the eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines.
- They should gather necessary documents such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and essays.
- They must ensure proficiency in English (TOEFL, IELTS) if applicable for international scholarship programmes.
- Applying early and well in advance to meet deadlines and make necessary preparations places the applicant in an advantageous position.
- Seeking guidance and networking with the alumni or professionals who have successfully obtained similar scholarships for advice and insights prove extremely beneficial.
What are the key eligibility criteria for these scholarships?
The key eligibility criteria include the following:
- Strong academic record, especially in relevant fields like agriculture, biotechnology, or horticulture.
- Nationality and level of studies such as undergraduate, postgraduate, or those pursuing PhD studies.
- Research experience if found applicable.
- Language requirements such as proficiency in English or the language of instruction etc.
How should we approach application of scholarship programmes to ensure increased chances of securing these scholarships?
Approaching scholarship application ensuring augmented chance of successfully securing scholarships benefits depends on the following initiatives of the applicants:
- Researching with due diligence and preparing application materials well in advance of the deadlines.
- Customising scholarship while highlighting the core strength areas vis-a-vis relevant academic achievements, research interests, and career goals.
- Obtaining positive references reinforcing and attesting your core strength credentials by securing letters of recommendation.
- Clear articulation of your focus on how receiving the scholarship can augment your potential to achieve more and do more in the field of agriculture for the society as a whole.
- Last but not the least follow all instructions very carefully to ensure your application is complete on all aspects meeting the requirements of the scholarship provider.
Which documents are required in general for an agriculture scholarship?
Applicants must submit their academic record, letter of recommendation, personal statement, enrolment proof etc. as a general requirement.
Who is the scholarship provider of the Sharans Vedanth Scholarship?
The University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) in Bangalore is the scholarship provider.
Who can apply for the ICAR Undergraduate National Talent Scholarship?
Indian and overseas students both can apply for the ICAR Undergraduate National Talent Scholarship programme.