AGFC Conservation Scholarship Opening Soon
Offered by Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
About This Scholarship
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission — the state agency that manages Arkansas's fish and wildlife — funds one of the more generous state conservation scholarship programs in the country, aimed at building the next generation of wildlife professionals. Freshmen and sophomores can receive $2,500 per semester ($5,000 per academic year), while juniors and seniors receive $5,000 per semester ($10,000 per academic year), with up to six scholarships available at each class level.
The program is squarely for Arkansas students planning conservation careers: applicants must be Arkansas residents paying in-state tuition at an accredited in-state college or university, enrolled full time with at least a 2.75 GPA. Approved majors include wildlife biology, fisheries, environmental science, conservation management, forestry, non-medical biology, criminal justice (a nod to future wildlife officers), and related natural resource fields.
Applications open November 1, 2026 and close December 31, 2026 at 11:59 p.m., with awards announced March 1, 2027. The application asks for a curriculum vitae, a transcript, an essay of at least 300 words, and a short video, and selected finalists interview with AGFC staff. A separate $40,000 graduate fellowship program supporting two thesis-based projects at $20,000 per student annually opens October 1.
Eligibility
- Arkansas resident paying in-state tuition
- Enrolled full time at an accredited Arkansas college or university
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Majoring in an approved field: wildlife biology, fisheries, environmental science, conservation management, forestry, biology (non-medical), criminal justice, or a related natural resource program
How To Apply
- Prepare a curriculum vitae, transcript showing a 2.75+ GPA, an essay of at least 300 words, and a short video
- Submit the online application form on the AGFC website between November 1 and December 31, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)
- If selected as a finalist, complete an interview with AGFC staff; awards are announced March 1, 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I receive?
Freshmen and sophomores receive $2,500 per semester ($5,000 per academic year); juniors and seniors receive $5,000 per semester ($10,000 per academic year). Up to six scholarships are available per class level.
Can I attend college out of state?
No. The scholarship is limited to Arkansas residents paying in-state tuition at accredited Arkansas colleges and universities.
Is there anything for graduate students?
Yes — a separate AGFC fellowship program supports two thesis-based graduate projects at $20,000 per student annually, with applications opening October 1.