College of Ag- NSF- 2026 USDA-NIFA Scholarship for Food Science and Technology Students


Cal Poly Pomona’s Food Science and Technology (FST) program is pleased to announce the 2026 USDA-NIFA Scholarship, offering $3,000 awards to 10 eligible undergraduate (BS) and graduate students (MS) enrolled in food science and technology program. This scholarship supports students who demonstrate academic excellence, active engagement in the FST community, and a strong passion for the field. The application period closes on March 2, 2026.

Students who meet the criteria below are encouraged to apply. In addition to financial support, the scholarship may also provide opportunities for summer research activities at CPP for transfer students entering the BS FST program.

Scholarship Criteria:

  • Applicants must be a full-time student enrolled in the Food Science and Technology program at Cal Poly Pomona in Fall 2026.
  • Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in food science and technology careers, assessed through a personal statement, research involvement, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities.
  • Applicant must have completed or enrolled in at least two FST courses at the time of application as indicated on unofficial transcript.
  • Applicants must be actively involved in the FST community at CPP (clubs, SCIFTS, events, internships- students should demonstrate involvement in at least one area).
  • Applicant must submit a personal statement (no more than 500 words) outlining career goals and how the scholarship will support their education and future plans.
  • Applicants must submit a letter of recommendation from peers or advisors who have taught or worked with them. The letter should highlight the applicant’s participation in food science activities and research, such as involvement in FSS, SCIFTS, IFT, RSCA, or plant-based symposiums.
  • Preference may be given to students with financial need, as assessed by the scholarship committee.

Required Application Materials
· Personal statement (500-750 words)
· One letter of recommendation from a faculty member or academic advisor
· Unofficial transcript
· Proof of current enrollment in at least two FST courses

Applications Submission:
Applicants must submit their applications through Bronco Scholarships portal by 2nd March 2026.

Award
$3,000
Deadline
03/02/2026
Supplemental Questions
  1. In no more than 500 words, outline your career goals and explain how you see this scholarship will supporting your education and future plans.
  2. Enter the name and email addresses of a professor or advisor who can submit a letter of recommendation on your behalf explaining why you should receive this scholarship and how it supports your success and career readiness.
  3. Answer the following questions regarding involvement in the FST community at CPP:
    • Are you actively involved in the FST community at CPP ? (Examples: clubs, SCIFTS, events, internships- students should demonstrate involvement in at least one area)
    • Specify the name(s) of the activity or club below:
  4. Please upload a copy of your Cal Poly unofficial transcripts.