Agriculture Scholarships Abroad for International Students: Government and Research Funding
Agriculture remains one of the most critical fields of study worldwide. Food security, climate-resilient farming, sustainable land use, and agribusiness innovation are challenges that every country faces — and the demand for highly trained agricultural scientists, researchers, and policy experts continues to grow.
If you are an international student looking to study agriculture abroad, this guide covers real, verified scholarship opportunities funded by governments, international organizations, and leading research universities. The programs listed here span undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral levels, and many are fully funded — covering tuition, living stipends, travel, and health insurance.
Who is this article for?
- International students from Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific seeking funded agriculture programs
- Researchers and professionals looking for agricultural fellowships
- Students specifically interested in agronomy, animal science, food technology, agricultural economics, horticulture, soil science, forestry, and related disciplines
- Applicants from developing countries who qualify for government-sponsored development scholarships
What you will find in this guide:
- Verified government scholarship programs that fund agriculture studies
- Research fellowships from international agricultural organizations
- University-specific agriculture scholarships
- Country-by-country breakdowns with real programs
- Application guidance and document checklists
- Scam warnings and common mistakes to avoid
Important note before you begin: Scholarship deadlines, eligibility criteria, and funding details change frequently. Every opportunity listed below is based on publicly available information from official sources. However, you must always confirm current details on the official scholarship or university website before applying. ScholarCareer.com does not process applications and does not guarantee admission or funding.
What You Need to Know About Agriculture Scholarships Abroad
Agriculture scholarships abroad differ from general academic scholarships in several important ways:
1. Many are tied to development goals. Government-funded programs such as Australia Awards, DAAD EPOS, and New Zealand Scholarships explicitly prioritize agriculture because it directly supports economic development in partner countries. If you are from a developing nation, you may have access to opportunities that applicants from high-income countries do not.
2. Research funding is abundant at the PhD level. International agricultural research centers — particularly those under the CGIAR network — offer fellowships and grants for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers working on crop improvement, livestock, climate adaptation, and food systems.
3. Some programs require a return-to-home-country commitment. Many government scholarships, especially those funded by Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, require recipients to return to their home country for a minimum period (usually two years) after completing their studies. This is a condition of the funding, not a suggestion.
4. “Agriculture” is a broad field. Scholarship eligibility may specify sub-disciplines. A program might fund “agricultural economics” but not “veterinary science,” or “food technology” but not “forestry.” Read the fine print carefully.
5. Competition is intense but focused. Because agriculture scholarships often target specific nationalities and development priorities, the applicant pool may be smaller than for general scholarships — which can work in your favor if you meet the criteria.
Best Fully Funded Agriculture Scholarships Abroad
1. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)
Overview: Australia Awards are among the most generous government-funded scholarships in the world, administered by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Agriculture is consistently listed as a priority sector for many participating countries, particularly in Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific.
Provider: Australian Government (DFAT)
Country: Australia
Universities: Multiple Australian universities, including the University of Queensland, University of Adelaide, Charles Darwin University, and others with strong agriculture faculties.
Degree Levels: Master’s (primarily); some PhD opportunities depending on the country partnership
Fields of Study: Agriculture, agribusiness, food security, agricultural economics, natural resource management, environmental science, and related fields. The specific priority fields depend on your home country’s Australia Awards profile.
Funding: Fully funded. Coverage typically includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Return air travel
- Establishment allowance (approximately AUD 5,000)
- Living stipend (Contribution to Living Expenses, approximately AUD 33,000 per year — amounts are subject to change)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Introductory Academic Program
- Supplementary Academic Support
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of an eligible participating country (many African, Asian, and Pacific nations qualify)
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must not be married to or engaged to an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- Must not be applying for a visa to live in Australia on a permanent basis
- Must satisfy all requirements of the Department of Home Affairs for a Student visa
- Must meet the specific eligibility criteria of your country’s Australia Awards profile
Application Process: Applications are submitted through the Online Australia Awards Scholarships Information System (OASIS) or through the relevant managing contractor in your region. You must check your country-specific priority sectors and eligibility before applying.
Deadline: Varies by country. For many African and Asian countries, applications typically open in February and close in April or May for the following academic year. Check the official Australia Awards website for your country’s specific timeline.
Status: UPCOMING (cycles vary by country; check official source for your region)
Who Should Apply: Students from DFAT partner countries who want to study agriculture at the master’s level and are committed to returning home to contribute to agricultural development.
Official Source: australiaawards.gov.au
2. DAAD EPOS Scholarships — Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (Germany)
Overview: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) funds development-related postgraduate courses at German universities through its EPOS program. Several of these programs are directly related to agriculture, including tropical and subtropical agriculture, agricultural economics, and food science.
Provider: DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
Country: Germany
Universities and Programs (agriculture-related EPOS courses include):
- University of Hohenheim: MSc Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics and Subtropics; MSc Environmental Protection and Agricultural Food Production
- University of Kassel / University of Göttingen: MSc International Food Business and Consumer Studies; MSc Sustainable International Agriculture
- Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences: MSc Development Studies (with agriculture components)
- Humboldt University of Berlin: MSc Agricultural Economics
Degree Levels: Master’s (most EPOS programs); some PhD opportunities through separate DAAD programs
Funding: Fully funded for eligible candidates from developing countries:
- Monthly stipend of approximately €934 for master’s students and €1,300 for PhD students (amounts subject to periodic adjustment)
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Travel allowance
- In some cases, rent subsidy and family allowance
Eligibility:
- Must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree (typically no more than six years old)
- Must have at least two years of professional work experience
- Must be from a developing country (as defined by the DAC list of ODA recipients)
- Must demonstrate English or German language proficiency depending on the program language
- Must not have lived in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application
Application Process: You apply directly to the German university offering the EPOS program and indicate that you wish to be considered for DAAD funding. Some programs require a separate DAAD application form submitted alongside the university application.
Deadline: Varies by program. Most EPOS agriculture programs have deadlines between July and October for the following academic year. Check each university’s specific EPOS program page.
Status: ONGOING (individual program deadlines vary throughout the year)
Who Should Apply: Early-to-mid-career professionals from developing countries with at least two years of work experience who want specialized postgraduate training in tropical agriculture, food systems, or agricultural economics.
Official Source: daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/daad-scholarships/ — search for “EPOS”
3. Wageningen University Africa Scholarship Programme (Netherlands)
Overview: Wageningen University & Research is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world for agriculture and forestry. Its Africa Scholarship Programme (ASP) provides fully funded master’s opportunities for outstanding African students.
Provider: Wageningen University & Research
Country: Netherlands
University: Wageningen University & Research
Degree Level: Master’s
Fields of Study: All MSc programs at Wageningen, which include:
- MSc Plant Sciences
- MSc Animal Sciences
- MSc Soil, Water, Atmosphere
- MSc Organic Agriculture
- MSc International Development Studies
- MSc Food Technology
- MSc Agricultural Economics and Rural Development
- MSc Forest and Nature Conservation
- MSc Biosystems Engineering
- And many more agriculture-related programs
Funding: Fully funded:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Living allowance for the duration of the program (24 months)
- Travel costs to and from the Netherlands
- Visa costs
- Health insurance
Eligibility:
- Must be a national of an African country
- Must have been provisionally admitted to a Wageningen MSc program
- Must have an excellent academic record (typically top 10% of class)
- Must not hold a second passport from an EU/EEA country
- Must demonstrate financial need
Application Process: First apply for admission to a Wageningen MSc program. If provisionally admitted, you will be invited to apply for the Africa Scholarship Programme separately. The ASP application typically requires a motivation letter and evidence of academic excellence.
Deadline: The ASP application deadline is typically in February for the September intake. The MSc program admission deadline is usually earlier (around May 1 of the preceding year for non-EU students).
Status: UPCOMING (next cycle expected to open late 2025 / early 2026 for September 2026 intake)
Who Should Apply: High-achieving African students who want to study at one of the world’s premier agriculture universities and can demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need.
Official Source: wur.nl/en/education/scholarships-and-grants/africa-scholarship-programme.htm
4. Borlaug Leadership Enhancement in Agriculture Program — Borlaug LEAP (USA)
Overview: Named after Nobel Peace Prize laureate Norman Borlaug, the Borlaug LEAP program supports PhD students from Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia who are conducting agricultural research relevant to food security in developing countries.
Provider: USAID (United States Agency for International Development), administered through the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Crop Improvement at Cornell University (administrative arrangements may shift; verify current host institution)
Country: USA (with research conducted in the student’s home region)
Degree Level: PhD
Fields of Study: Agricultural research broadly defined — crop science, plant breeding, genetics, agronomy, agricultural economics, food science, soil science, and related disciplines relevant to food security.
Funding:
- Fellowship funding of up to $15,000 per year (amounts may vary by cycle)
- Funding supports research costs, travel, and professional development
- Does NOT typically cover full tuition — students must have separate tuition funding from their home university or another source
- Includes mentorship from a CGIAR scientist and a US-based professor
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African or South Asian country
- Must be enrolled in a PhD program at a recognized university
- Must be conducting research relevant to agricultural development and food security
- Must have a US-based mentor and a CGIAR mentor (the program assists with mentor matching)
- Both male and female applicants are encouraged; the program actively promotes gender balance
Application Process: Applications are submitted through the Borlaug LEAP website. You will need a research proposal, letters of recommendation, and evidence of PhD enrollment.
Deadline: Typically once per year; the call for applications usually opens in the first quarter of the calendar year. Exact dates vary.
Status: Check official source for the current cycle status
Who Should Apply: PhD students from Sub-Saharan Africa or South Asia who are already enrolled in a doctoral program and need supplemental research funding and mentorship for their agricultural dissertation work.
Important Warning: Borlaug LEAP is a research fellowship, not a full-ride scholarship. You must already have tuition funding in place.
Official Source: borlaugleap.org (verify current URL as administrative hosts may change)
5. New Zealand Scholarships (New Zealand)
Overview: New Zealand Scholarships are funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). Agriculture is a major priority sector, particularly for applicants from Pacific Island nations, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Provider: New Zealand Government (MFAT)
Country: New Zealand
Universities: University of Auckland, Massey University (strong agriculture and veterinary programs), Lincoln University (specialist agriculture university), University of Otago, Victoria University of Wellington, and others.
Degree Levels: Undergraduate (for Pacific applicants primarily), Master’s, PhD, and short-term training
Fields of Study: Agriculture, agribusiness, food safety, renewable energy, environmental management, and related sectors. Priority sectors vary by applicant country.
Funding: Fully funded:
- Full tuition fees
- Living allowance (stipend)
- Establishment allowance
- Medical and travel insurance
- Travel to and from New Zealand
- Research and thesis allowance (for postgraduate students)
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of an eligible country
- Must meet the academic and English language requirements of the chosen New Zealand institution
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must commit to returning to your home country for at least two years after completing the scholarship
- Must not hold New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency
Application Process: Applications are submitted through the New Zealand Scholarships online application system. You must check your country’s specific eligibility and priority sectors before applying.
Deadline: Varies by region. For many African and Asian countries, applications typically open in February and close in March or April. Pacific applicants may have different timelines.
Status: UPCOMING (check the official website for your country’s next application window)
Who Should Apply: Students from MFAT partner countries who want to study agriculture in New Zealand and plan to return home to apply their knowledge in agricultural development.
Official Source: nzscholarships.govt.nz
6. MEXT Scholarships (Japan)
Overview: The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship is one of the most comprehensive fully funded programs in the world. Agriculture is well-represented at Japanese national universities, many of which have dedicated faculties of agriculture.
Provider: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan
Country: Japan
Universities: University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Hokkaido University, Kyushu University, University of Tsukuba, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, and many others.
Degree Levels: Undergraduate, Research (Master’s/PhD), College of Technology, Specialized Training College
Fields of Study: Agriculture, agricultural chemistry, agricultural engineering, forestry, fisheries, veterinary science, food science, and related fields.
Funding: Fully funded:
- Full tuition and enrollment fees
- Monthly stipend (approximately ¥117,000–¥145,000 depending on degree level; amounts subject to change)
- Round-trip airfare
- No application fee
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of a country that has diplomatic relations with Japan
- Age limits vary by scholarship category (typically under 24 for undergraduate, under 35 for research students)
- Must meet academic requirements and pass the MEXT screening process
- Must be willing to learn Japanese (though some graduate programs are offered in English)
Application Process: Two routes exist:
- Embassy Recommendation: Apply through the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country. This involves a written examination and interview.
- University Recommendation: Apply directly to a Japanese university that will recommend you to MEXT.
Deadline: Embassy recommendation applications typically open in April–May for departure the following April or October. University recommendation deadlines vary by institution.
Status: ONGOING (embassy and university cycles run at different times)
Who Should Apply: Strong academic students at any degree level who are interested in Japanese agricultural research and technology and are willing to adapt to life in Japan.
Official Source: mext.go.jp — search for “Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship”
7. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)
Overview: VLIR-UOS (Flemish Interuniversity Council) funds master’s and training programs at Flemish universities in Belgium, with a strong emphasis on development-relevant fields including agriculture and food technology.
Provider: VLIR-UOS, funded by the Belgian Development Cooperation
Country: Belgium
Universities: KU Leuven, Ghent University, University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Hasselt University
Degree Level: Master’s (International Course Programmes — ICPs)
Fields of Study (agriculture-related ICPs include):
- MSc in Food Technology (Ghent University / KU Leuven)
- MSc in Aquaculture (Ghent University)
- MSc in Water Resources Engineering (KU Leuven / VUB — relevant to agricultural water management)
- MSc in Sustainable Development (with agriculture components)
Funding: Fully funded:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel costs
- Insurance
- Preparatory course costs (if applicable)
Eligibility:
- Must be a national of one of the 29 VLIR-UOS partner countries (many in Africa, Asia, and Latin America)
- Must be under a specified age limit (typically 40 for master’s programs)
- Must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree
- Must demonstrate English proficiency
- Must not have previously received a VLIR-UOS scholarship
Application Process: Apply directly to the Flemish university offering the ICP and indicate that you wish to be considered for VLIR-UOS funding. The scholarship application is typically integrated into the university admission process.
Deadline: Varies by program, typically between January and March for the September intake.
Status: UPCOMING (next cycle expected early 2026)
Who Should Apply: Professionals from VLIR-UOS partner countries with a background in agriculture, food science, or related fields who want specialized master’s training in Belgium.
Official Source: vliruos.be/en/scholarships
8. Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)
Overview: The Hungarian Government’s Stipendium Hungaricum program offers fully funded scholarships to international students from partner countries. Hungary has a strong tradition in agricultural education, and several Hungarian universities offer agriculture programs in English.
Provider: Hungarian Government (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade), managed by the Tempus Public Foundation
Country: Hungary
Universities: Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) — the primary agriculture institution; University of Debrecen; University of Szeged; University of Pécs
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, One-tier Master’s, PhD
Fields of Study: Agricultural Engineering, Animal Science, Plant Science, Food Science and Technology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Rural Development, Environmental Science, and more.
Funding: Fully funded:
- Full tuition fee exemption
- Monthly stipend (approximately HUF 43,700 for bachelor’s/master’s; HUF 140,000 for PhD — amounts subject to change)
- Accommodation contribution or free dormitory placement
- Medical insurance
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of a partner country (over 80 countries participate, including many African, Asian, and Middle Eastern nations)
- Must meet the academic and language requirements of the chosen program
- Must be nominated by the sending partner authority in your home country
Application Process: Two-step process:
- Apply through the Stipendium Hungaricum online application system (apply.stipendiumhungaricum.hu)
- Apply to the sending partner authority in your home country (often the Ministry of Education or a designated scholarship body)
Deadline: Typically mid-January for the September intake.
Status: UPCOMING (next application cycle expected to open November 2025 – January 2026)
Who Should Apply: Students from Stipendium Hungaricum partner countries seeking affordable, fully funded agriculture education in Central Europe.
Official Source: stipendiumhungaricum.hu
9. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees — Agriculture-Related Programs (Europe)
Overview: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs) are prestigious, integrated programs delivered by consortia of European universities. Several EMJMDs focus on agriculture, food systems, and related fields. These are fully funded by the European Union.
Provider: European Union (European Education and Culture Executive Agency — EACEA)
Countries: Multiple EU and partner countries (programs involve 2–4 universities across different countries)
Agriculture-Related EMJMD Programs (examples — verify current catalogue):
- PlantHealth — European Master’s in Plant Health in Sustainable Cropping Systems (University of Göttingen, University of Girona, University of Helsinki, University of Montpellier)
- MSc in Agricultural, Food and Environmental Policy Analysis (AFEPA) (Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, University of Bonn, and others)
- MEDfOR — Mediterranean Forestry and Natural Resources Management (University of Lisbon and partners)
- SARENA — Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems (various partners)
Degree Level: Master’s (typically 2 years)
Funding: Fully funded for scholarship recipients:
- Full tuition and participation costs
- Monthly living allowance (approximately €1,400 per month)
- Travel and installation costs
- Insurance
Eligibility:
- Must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree
- Must not have previously received an Erasmus Mundus scholarship
- Must apply to the specific EMJMD consortium
- Open to students worldwide
Application Process: Apply directly to the EMJMD program consortium through its dedicated website. Each program has its own application portal and selection criteria.
Deadline: Varies by program, typically between October and January for the following September intake.
Status: ONGOING (individual program deadlines vary)
Who Should Apply: High-achieving students from any country who want a multi-country European master’s experience in agriculture, plant science, food policy, or forestry.
Official Source: eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus-catalogue_en — search the catalogue for agriculture-related programs
10. Chinese Government Scholarships — CSC (China)
Overview: The China Scholarship Council (CSC) offers fully funded scholarships to international students at Chinese universities. China is home to several world-class agricultural universities, and agriculture is a major area of study for CSC scholars.
Provider: Chinese Government (China Scholarship Council)
Country: China
Universities: China Agricultural University (Beijing), Nanjing Agricultural University, Huazhong Agricultural University, Northwest A&F University, Zhejiang University, and many others.
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and non-degree research programs
Fields of Study: Crop science, plant protection, animal science, veterinary medicine, agricultural economics, food science, agricultural engineering, horticulture, soil science, and more.
Funding: Fully funded (Type A — bilateral program; Type B — university program):
- Full tuition waiver
- Free university accommodation or housing subsidy
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- Monthly stipend (approximately CNY 2,500 for bachelor’s, CNY 3,000 for master’s, CNY 3,500 for PhD — amounts subject to change)
Eligibility:
- Must be a non-Chinese citizen in good health
- Age limits: under 25 for bachelor’s, under 35 for master’s, under 40 for PhD
- Must meet the academic and language requirements of the chosen program (many agriculture programs at the graduate level are offered in English)
Application Process: Apply through the CSC online system (campuschina.org) and/or through the Chinese embassy in your home country. Some universities also accept direct applications for Type B scholarships.
Deadline: Typically between January and April for the September intake. Deadlines vary by embassy and university.
Status: UPCOMING (next cycle expected early 2026)
Who Should Apply: Students from countries with diplomatic relations with China who want to study agriculture at well-resourced Chinese agricultural universities, often with a focus on crop science and food production.
Official Source: campuschina.org
11. Türkiye Bursları — Turkish Government Scholarships (Turkey)
Overview: The Turkish Government Scholarships program is one of the most comprehensive in the world, covering all degree levels and including agriculture among its funded fields.
Provider: Republic of Turkey (Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities — YTB)
Country: Turkey
Universities: Ankara University (Faculty of Agriculture), Ege University, Akdeniz University, Atatürk University, Çukurova University, and others with agriculture faculties.
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, Research, and short-term programs
Fields of Study: Agriculture, agricultural biotechnology, food engineering, animal husbandry, soil science, agricultural economics, and related fields.
Funding: Fully funded:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend (amounts vary by degree level)
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- One-year Turkish language course (even if the program is in English)
- Accommodation
Eligibility:
- Must not be a Turkish citizen
- Must meet age requirements (under 21 for bachelor’s, under 30 for master’s, under 35 for PhD)
- Must meet minimum academic achievement thresholds (typically 70% for undergraduate, 75% for graduate)
- Must not be currently enrolled in a Turkish university at the same degree level
Application Process: Apply through the Türkiye Bursları Information System (TBBS) at turkiyeburslari.gov.tr. The application includes academic records, a letter of intent, and references.
Deadline: Typically January–February for the following academic year.
Status: UPCOMING (next cycle expected January 2026)
Who Should Apply: Students from any eligible country seeking a fully funded agriculture degree in Turkey, with the added benefit of Turkish language training.
Official Source: turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
12. Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)
Overview: Chevening is the UK government’s global scholarship program, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). While not agriculture-specific, Chevening can be used to fund master’s degrees in agriculture, food security, agribusiness, and related fields at any UK university.
Provider: UK Government (FCDO) and partner organizations
Country: United Kingdom
Universities: Any UK university, including the University of Reading (strong agriculture department), University of Nottingham, University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, and others.
Degree Level: One-year taught master’s
Fields of Study: Any field, including agriculture, food security, agricultural development, environmental management, and agribusiness.
Funding: Fully funded:
- Full tuition fees (up to a cap for MBA programs)
- Monthly living stipend
- Arrival and departure allowance
- Visa application costs
- One economy-class flight to and from the UK
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory
- Must have at least two years of work experience (2,800 hours)
- Must hold an undergraduate degree that enables entry to a UK master’s program
- Must apply to three eligible UK university courses and receive an unconditional offer from at least one
- Must commit to returning to your home country for at least two years after the scholarship ends
Application Process: Apply through the Chevening online application system at chevening.org.
Deadline: Applications typically open in August and close in early November for the following academic year.
Status: UPCOMING (next cycle expected to open August 2025 for 2026–2027 intake)
Who Should Apply: Mid-career professionals and emerging leaders from Chevening-eligible countries who want a one-year master’s in agriculture or food security in the UK.
Official Source: chevening.org
13. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
Overview: The Fulbright Program, sponsored by the US Department of State, funds international students to pursue master’s or PhD degrees at US universities. Agriculture, environmental science, and food security are eligible fields.
Provider: US Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
Country: United States
Universities: Any accredited US university, including land-grant institutions with top agriculture programs such as Cornell University, University of California Davis, Iowa State University, Texas A&M University, and University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Degree Levels: Master’s and PhD
Fields of Study: Any field, including all agriculture disciplines.
Funding: Varies by country but typically includes:
- Full tuition and fees
- Living stipend
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- Settling-in allowance
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of a Fulbright-participating country
- Must hold a degree equivalent to a US bachelor’s degree
- Must meet English language requirements (TOEFL or IELTS)
- Specific eligibility varies by country; check your local Fulbright commission or US embassy
Application Process: Apply through the Fulbright commission or US embassy in your home country. The process, deadlines, and specific requirements vary significantly by country.
Deadline: Varies by country, typically between February and October for the following academic year.
Status: ONGOING (country-specific timelines)
Who Should Apply: Strong academic candidates from Fulbright-participating countries who want to pursue graduate study in agriculture at a US university.
Official Source: foreign.fulbrightonline.org
14. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals — SISGP (Sweden)
Overview: The Swedish Institute (SI) offers scholarships for master’s studies in Sweden to professionals from selected countries. Agriculture, sustainable food production, and environmental science are among the eligible fields at Swedish universities.
Provider: Swedish Institute, funded by the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Country: Sweden
Universities: Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) — one of Europe’s leading agriculture universities; Lund University; Uppsala University; Stockholm University; and others.
Degree Level: Master’s
Fields of Study: Programs related to sustainable development, agriculture, food systems, environmental science, and related fields at participating Swedish universities.
Funding: Fully funded:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000 (amount subject to change)
- Travel grant
- Insurance
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of an eligible country (list changes periodically; many African and Asian countries are included)
- Must have at least 3,000 hours of work experience
- Must demonstrate leadership experience
- Must apply to an eligible master’s program at a Swedish university
- Must meet the admission requirements of the chosen program
Application Process: First apply to a Swedish university through universityadmissions.se. Then apply separately for the SI scholarship through the Swedish Institute website.
Deadline: University applications typically close in mid-January. SI scholarship applications typically open in February and close in late February or early March.
Status: UPCOMING (next cycle expected early 2026)
Who Should Apply: Experienced professionals from SI-eligible countries with a background in agriculture or sustainable development who want to study at a Swedish university.
Official Source: si.se/en/apply/scholarships/swedish-institute-scholarships-for-global-professionals/
Agriculture Scholarships by Country
Australia
- Australia Awards Scholarships (detailed above) — agriculture is a priority sector for many partner countries
- University of Queensland Agriculture Scholarships — UQ offers faculty-specific scholarships for international agriculture students
- University of Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarships — can be applied to agriculture programs
- Endeavour Scholarships (note: the Endeavour program was discontinued by the Australian government in 2019; do not apply to any website claiming to offer new Endeavour scholarships)
Study Costs: Tuition for agriculture master’s programs typically ranges from AUD 35,000–50,000 per year without a scholarship. Living costs are approximately AUD 21,000–25,000 per year.
Post-Study Work: Australia offers a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) allowing post-study work of 2–4 years depending on the degree level.
Germany
- DAAD EPOS (detailed above)
- DAAD Research Grants for PhD and postdoctoral researchers in agriculture
- Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships — open to agriculture students with an environmental focus
- Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships — available for graduate students including agriculture
Study Costs: Public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition (a semester contribution of approximately €150–350). DAAD funding covers living costs.
Post-Study Work: Germany offers an 18-month post-study job-seeker visa for graduates.
Netherlands
- Wageningen University Africa Scholarship Programme (detailed above)
- Wageningen University Excellence Programme — merit-based funding for non-EU master’s students
- NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship) — €5,000 grant for non-EEA students at participating Dutch universities, including Wageningen
- Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) — Dutch government-funded short courses and master’s programs in agriculture for professionals from selected countries (note: OKP has been transitioning to new formats; verify current status)
Study Costs: Tuition at Wageningen is approximately €16,200–€20,400 per year for non-EU master’s students.
United Kingdom
- Chevening Scholarships (detailed above)
- Commonwealth Scholarships — for students from Commonwealth countries, can fund agriculture master’s and PhD programs
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships — for graduate study at the University of Cambridge, including agriculture-related programs
- Rhodes Scholarships — for graduate study at the University of Oxford
- University of Reading Scholarships — Reading has one of the UK’s strongest agriculture departments and offers various international scholarships
Study Costs: UK master’s tuition ranges from approximately £18,000–£30,000 for agriculture programs.
United States
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program (detailed above)
- Borlaug LEAP (detailed above)
- USDA Borlaug Fellowship Program — short-term research fellowships for early- and mid-career researchers from developing and middle-income countries
- University-specific funding — many US land-grant universities offer graduate assistantships (teaching or research) that cover tuition and provide a stipend for agriculture PhD students
Study Costs: US graduate tuition varies enormously, from approximately $20,000–$50,000+ per year. However, funded PhD positions with assistantships are common in agriculture.
Japan
- MEXT Scholarships (detailed above)
- JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) scholarships — for development-oriented agriculture training
- ADB-Japan Scholarship Program — can fund agriculture-related graduate studies at participating Japanese universities
Belgium
- VLIR-UOS Scholarships (detailed above)
Hungary
- Stipendium Hungaricum (detailed above)
China
- CSC Scholarships (detailed above)
- Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) Fellowships — for international postgraduate researchers
Turkey
- Türkiye Bursları (detailed above)
New Zealand
- New Zealand Scholarships (detailed above)
Sweden
- SI Scholarships for Global Professionals (detailed above)
- SLU Scholarships — the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences offers its own tuition waivers for select international master’s students
Opportunities for African Students
African students have access to some of the most generous agriculture scholarship programs in the world, largely because agricultural development is a key priority for international donors and partner governments.
Programs with strong African eligibility include:
- Australia Awards (many African countries eligible)
- DAAD EPOS (all DAC-listed African countries)
- Wageningen Africa Scholarship Programme (exclusively for African nationals)
- Borlaug LEAP (Sub-Saharan Africa)
- New Zealand Scholarships (selected African countries)
- Chevening (most African countries)
- Commonwealth Scholarships (African Commonwealth nations)
- Stipendium Hungaricum (many African partner countries)
- VLIR-UOS (selected African countries)
- SI Scholarships (selected African countries)
- Erasmus Mundus (open to all nationalities)
- MEXT (most African countries)
- CSC (most African countries)
- Türkiye Bursları (most African countries)
Key considerations for African applicants:
- Ensure your country is on the eligible country list for each specific program
- Check whether your country’s priority sectors include agriculture (for Australia Awards, New Zealand Scholarships, etc.)
- Some programs require nomination by your home government’s Ministry of Education
- English-language proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL) are required for most programs in English-speaking countries
- French-speaking African students should look at programs in France, Belgium, and Canada (Quebec) as well
Opportunities for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students are eligible for many of the programs listed above. Specific notes:
- Chevening: Nigeria is one of the largest Chevening-eligible countries. Agriculture and food security are valid fields of study.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: Nigeria is a Commonwealth member; Nigerian students can apply for Commonwealth Shared Scholarships and Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarships in agriculture.
- DAAD EPOS: Nigerian applicants are eligible for all EPOS programs.
- Fulbright: The Fulbright Foreign Student Program operates in Nigeria through the US Embassy in Abuja.
- Stipendium Hungaricum: Nigeria is a partner country.
- Türkiye Bursları: Nigerian students are eligible.
- MEXT: Nigerian students can apply through the Japanese Embassy in Abuja.
- Australia Awards: Verify whether Nigeria is currently on the eligible country list for the specific cycle, as Australia Awards eligibility for African countries can change.
- PTDF Scholarships: The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) in Nigeria occasionally funds agriculture-related studies abroad, though its primary focus is oil and gas. Check the PTDF website for current offerings.
Scholarship Comparison Table
| Scholarship | Country | Provider | Degree | Funding Level | Key Eligibility | Typical Deadline | Status | Official Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia Awards | Australia | DFAT | Master’s | Fully funded | Partner country citizens | Feb–Apr (varies) | UPCOMING | dfat.gov.au |
| DAAD EPOS | Germany | DAAD/BMZ | Master’s | Fully funded | 2 yrs work exp, developing country | Jul–Oct (varies) | ONGOING | daad.de |
| Wageningen ASP | Netherlands | Wageningen UR | Master’s | Fully funded | African nationals, top 10% | Feb | UPCOMING | wur.nl |
| Borlaug LEAP | USA | USAID | PhD | Partial (research) | Sub-Saharan Africa/South Asia | Varies | Check source | borlaugleap.org |
| NZ Scholarships | New Zealand | MFAT | Master’s/PhD | Fully funded | Partner country citizens | Feb–Mar (varies) | UPCOMING | nzscholarships.govt.nz |
| MEXT | Japan | MEXT | All levels | Fully funded | Under 24/35, strong academics | Apr–May | ONGOING | mext.go.jp |
| VLIR-UOS | Belgium | VLIR-UOS | Master’s | Fully funded | Partner country, under 40 | Jan–Mar | UPCOMING | vliruos.be |
| Stipendium Hungaricum | Hungary | Tempus | All levels | Fully funded | Partner country citizens | Jan | UPCOMING | stipendiumhungaricum.hu |
| Erasmus Mundus | EU | EACEA | Master’s | Fully funded | Any nationality, bachelor’s | Oct–Jan (varies) | ONGOING | eacea.ec.europa.eu |
| CSC | China | CSC | All levels | Fully funded | Non-Chinese, age limits | Jan–Apr | UPCOMING | campuschina.org |
| Türkiye Bursları | Turkey | YTB | All levels | Fully funded | Non-Turkish, age limits | Jan–Feb | UPCOMING | turkiyeburslari.gov.tr |
| Chevening | UK | FCDO | Master’s | Fully funded | 2 yrs work exp, eligible country | Aug–Nov | UPCOMING | chevening.org |
| Fulbright | USA | US Dept of State | Master’s/PhD | Fully funded | Varies by country | Feb–Oct (varies) | ONGOING | foreign.fulbrightonline.org |
| SI Scholarships | Sweden | Swedish Institute | Master’s | Fully funded | 3,000 hrs work exp, eligible country | Feb | UPCOMING | si.se |
Application Guide: Step-by-Step
Step 1 — Confirm your eligibility. Before investing time in any application, read the full eligibility criteria on the official scholarship website. Check your nationality, age, degree level, work experience, and language requirements.
Step 2 — Identify your target programs. Choose 3–5 scholarships that match your profile. Do not apply randomly to every program you find. Focus on those where you genuinely meet all criteria.
Step 3 — Research the university and department. For agriculture scholarships, the specific department and research group matter. Look at faculty profiles, current research projects, and available facilities.
Step 4 — Gather your documents early. Common requirements include:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Passport copy
- CV/resume
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Research proposal (for PhD programs)
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
- English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Work experience certificates (for programs requiring professional experience)
- Medical certificate (for some government scholarships)
Step 5 — Prepare a strong personal statement. Explain why you want to study agriculture, what specific problem you want to address, how the scholarship and program will help you, and what you plan to do after completing your studies. Be specific — avoid generic statements.
Step 6 — Obtain strong references. Choose referees who know your academic or professional work well. Brief them on the scholarship’s focus so they can tailor their letters.
Step 7 — Complete the application carefully. Follow all instructions exactly. Incomplete applications are the most common reason for rejection.
Step 8 — Review everything before submitting. Check for errors, missing documents, and formatting issues.
Step 9 — Submit through the official portal only. Never submit applications through third-party agents or unofficial websites.
Step 10 — Save your confirmation. After submitting, save the confirmation email and application reference number.
Step 11 — Monitor your email and application account. Scholarship providers may request additional information or schedule interviews.
Step 12 — Prepare for the next stage. If shortlisted, you may need to attend an interview (in person or online), take additional tests, or provide certified document copies.
Important Things to Know Before Applying
Competition is real. Government-funded agriculture scholarships receive thousands of applications. Selection rates for programs like Chevening, Australia Awards, and DAAD EPOS are typically below 10%. Apply to multiple programs to increase your chances.
Deadlines are strict. Most scholarship portals close at a specific time and date. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances. Start preparing at least 3–6 months before the deadline.
Hidden costs may exist. Even with a fully funded scholarship, you may need to pay for:
- English language tests (IELTS/TOEFL fees)
- Document authentication and translation
- Passport renewal
- Visa application fees (some scholarships reimburse this, some do not)
- Pre-departure medical examinations
Return-of-service obligations. Many government scholarships (Australia Awards, New Zealand Scholarships, Chevening, Commonwealth) require you to return to your home country for at least two years after completing your studies. Understand this commitment before applying.
Fraud is widespread. Be aware of the following scam indicators:
- Any scholarship that asks you to pay an “application fee” or “processing fee” via bank transfer, mobile money, or cryptocurrency
- Websites that use free email domains (Gmail, Yahoo) instead of official institutional domains
- “Agents” who guarantee scholarship placement in exchange for money
- WhatsApp or social media messages offering unsolicited scholarship awards
- Websites that mimic official scholarship names but use slightly different URLs
ScholarCareer.com does not guarantee selection, admission, funding, or visa approval. We provide information to help you find and apply for legitimate opportunities. All decisions are made by the scholarship providers and universities.
Documents You Typically Need
- Valid international passport
- Academic transcripts (all levels)
- Degree certificates
- CV/resume (2–3 pages, tailored to the program)
- Personal statement or motivation letter (500–1,000 words)
- Research proposal (PhD programs)
- 2–3 letters of recommendation (academic and/or professional)
- English language proficiency test results (IELTS 6.0–7.0 or TOEFL equivalent for most programs)
- Proof of work experience (employment letters, contracts)
- Medical certificate (for some government scholarships)
- Police clearance certificate (for some programs)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Birth certificate or national ID (for some programs)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying to programs you are not eligible for. Read the eligibility criteria thoroughly before starting.
- Missing the deadline. Set calendar reminders well in advance.
- Submitting generic personal statements. Tailor each statement to the specific scholarship and program.
- Ignoring the return-of-service requirement. If you do not plan to return home, do not apply for scholarships that require it.
- Using unofficial application channels. Always apply through the official portal.
- Failing to prepare language test scores in time. IELTS and TOEFL results can take weeks to process.
- Overlooking country-specific priority sectors. For Australia Awards and New Zealand Scholarships, your field of study must match your country’s priority list.
- Not reading the fine print on funding. “Fully funded” can mean different things. Verify exactly what is covered.
FAQ
1. Are there fully funded agriculture scholarships for undergraduate students?
Yes. The MEXT Scholarship (Japan), Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary), CSC Scholarship (China), and Türkiye Bursları (Turkey) all fund undergraduate agriculture programs. Australia Awards and New Zealand Scholarships fund undergraduate study for Pacific Island applicants. Most other government scholarships focus on master’s and PhD levels.
2. Can I study agriculture abroad without IELTS?
Some programs accept alternative English proficiency evidence. For example, if your previous degree was taught entirely in English, some universities will waive the IELTS requirement. MEXT (Japan) and Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary) may not require IELTS if you pass their own language assessments. However, most programs in English-speaking countries (UK, Australia, USA, Canada, New Zealand) require IELTS or TOEFL.
3. Are agriculture scholarships available for African students?
Yes, extensively. Programs such as the Wageningen Africa Scholarship Programme, Borlaug LEAP, Australia Awards, DAAD EPOS, Chevening, Commonwealth Scholarships, and many others specifically welcome or prioritize African applicants. See the “Opportunities for African Students” section above.
4. What is the best country to study agriculture abroad?
This depends on your specialization and goals. The Netherlands (Wageningen) is world-leading in agricultural research. The USA (UC Davis, Cornell, Iowa State) excels in crop science and agricultural technology. Australia is strong in dryland agriculture and agribusiness. Germany offers excellent tropical agriculture programs. Japan leads in agricultural technology and precision farming. Choose based on your specific research interests and career goals.
5. Do I need work experience to apply for agriculture scholarships?
It depends on the program. DAAD EPOS requires at least two years of professional experience. Chevening requires 2,800 hours. SI Scholarships require 3,000 hours. However, MEXT, CSC, Stipendium Hungaricum, and most university-specific scholarships do not require work experience for master’s applicants.
6. Can I apply for multiple agriculture scholarships at the same time?
Yes, and you should. Applying to multiple programs increases your chances. However, some programs (such as Erasmus Mundus) restrict you from holding another EU-funded scholarship simultaneously. Read the terms of each program.
7. Are there agriculture scholarships that do not require me to return home?
Most government-funded scholarships require a return-of-service period. However, university-specific scholarships (such as graduate assistantships at US universities or merit scholarships at European universities) typically do not have this requirement. Erasmus Mundus also does not require a return commitment.
8. How competitive are agriculture scholarships?
Competition varies by program. Prestigious government scholarships like Chevening and Australia Awards have acceptance rates below 5–10%. University-specific scholarships may be less competitive. PhD funding through research assistantships in the USA is often more accessible if you have a strong research background and a willing faculty supervisor.
9. Can I get a fully funded PhD in agriculture?
Yes. In the USA, most agriculture PhD students are funded through teaching or research assistantships that cover tuition and provide a stipend. MEXT (Japan), CSC (China), DAAD (Germany), and the Borlaug LEAP program also fund agricultural PhD research. Check individual programs for details.
10. How do I find agriculture research funding?
Beyond the scholarships listed here, explore:
- CGIAR center fellowships (IRRI, CIMMYT, IITA, ILRI, etc.)
- National science foundation grants in your home country
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation agricultural development grants
- FAO internship and fellowship programs
- AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa) opportunities
Best Options at a Glance
| Category | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best for full funding (Master’s) | Australia Awards | Covers tuition, living, travel, insurance, and more with no repayment |
| Best for African students | Wageningen Africa Scholarship Programme | Exclusively for African nationals at a top agriculture university |
| Best for PhD research | Borlaug LEAP + US assistantships | Combines research fellowship with full university funding |
| Best for undergraduate | MEXT (Japan) | One of the few fully funded undergraduate options globally |
| Best for professionals | Chevening (UK) | Designed for mid-career leaders with work experience |
| Best for tropical agriculture | DAAD EPOS (Germany) | Specialized programs at Hohenheim and Kassel/Göttingen |
| Best for Central Europe | Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary) | Comprehensive funding at MATE, a dedicated agriculture university |
| Best for multi-country experience | Erasmus Mundus | Study at 2–4 European universities in one program |
| Best without return obligation | Erasmus Mundus or US assistantships | No mandatory return-of-service requirement |
Conclusion
Agriculture scholarships abroad offer life-changing opportunities for international students who want to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges — food insecurity, climate change, sustainable farming, and rural development. The programs covered in this guide are real, verified, and funded by governments and reputable institutions.
The most important steps you can take right now are:
- Identify 3–5 programs that match your nationality, degree level, and specialization
- Visit the official websites listed in this article and read the current eligibility criteria
- Start preparing your documents — especially language test scores and recommendation letters — well before the deadlines
- Write a compelling personal statement that connects your background, your goals, and the specific program you are applying to
- Apply early and apply to multiple programs to maximize your chances
Remember: no scholarship is guaranteed, and competition is real. But with careful preparation, strong documents, and a clear sense of purpose, you can position yourself as a competitive candidate.
Always verify deadlines, eligibility, and funding details on the official scholarship or university website before applying. Information can change between application cycles.
Keep checking ScholarCareer.com for verified scholarship, study abroad, job, and career opportunities.
