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Available Equine Scholarships

American Horse Council Scholarship

  • Applications will open March 1, 2025
  • Beginning in 2025, the American Horse Council (AHC) Foundation will offer five (5) “Future Leaders Professional Development” Scholarships to cover the cost of conference registration for Agriculture/ Equine college students wishing to attend the AHC Annual Conference in Washington DC.
  • Click here for more information

EQUUS Foundation Scholarships

  • Several scholarship opportunities are available. 
  • Deadline: October 15
  • Applicants need to confirm that they are enrolled in an equine studies program at a participating educational institution on the EQUUS Foundation Equine Education Network before applying. 
  • Click here for more information. 

Purina Scholarship Program

  • Application is closed for 2024; will reopen March 1, 2025
  • Land O’Lakes, Inc. has established a scholarship program for students who plan to continue their education in college or vocational school programs. Must have experience showing or caring for large/small livestock animals, equine, or poultry (not house pets). 
  • Click here for more information

American Morgan Horse Association

  • Several grant and scholarship opportunities are available from this organization, with most application deadlines being in the fall.
  • Click here for more information.

    American Saddlebred Horse Association Scholarships

    • ASHA Youth Scholarships:
      Deadline: June 1st
      Description: Scholarships are awarded only to members of the American Saddlebred Horse Association, 21 years of age and under, at grade 11 or higher. Click here for more information. 
    • Melissa Moore Passion for the Breed Scholarships
      Deadline: December 1st
      Description: for ASHBA and KASPHA members who are students seeking undergraduate or graduate level education, and have a sincere passion for all aspects of the American Saddlebred breed. Click here for more information.

    American Saddlebred Museum Scholarships

    • Keith Bartz Impact Scholarship Award: $1,500
      Deadline: Applications for the 2025 award are due December 1, 2024
      Description: Keith Bartz was an individual who focused his time, talent, and resources on building the American Saddlebred Museum and celebration of the American Saddlebred horse. This scholarship celebrates his life by awarding an individual that exemplifies the same character and achievements. Applicants must be twenty-one years of age or under that has demonstrated a commitment to the American Saddlebred and to excellence in their community. High school seniors, individuals enrolled in a two-year or four-year program at any college, trade school, or university are eligible to apply. 
      Click here for more information. 

    American Paint Horse Association Foundation Scholarships

    • Academic Scholarship: dozens of academic scholarships each year, that's $1,000 per year/renewable for four years.
      Deadline: March 1st
      Description: students must be a member of the AjPHA or APHA for the past three years, must be a graduating high school senior (or apply within two years of graduation), must pass a college entrance examination, provide three letters of reference and submit an essay explaining their educational plans. Once they have been granted a scholarship, they must maintain a “B”/3.0 or better grade-point average each academic year to be eligible for renewal
      Click here for more information. 

    National Reining Horse Youth Association Scholarships

    • Youth Scholarships: Various Scholarships available
      Deadline: March 1st 
      Description: The Reining Horse Foundation is committed to providing leadership and scholarship opportunities to enable youth to further excel in their future careers and competition. Must be a member of NRHyA.
      Click here for more information. 

      Intercollegiate Equestrian Foundation Scholarships

      • The Jack Fritz Memorial Award:
        Deadline: February 20th
        Description: The Jack Fritz Memorial Award is a national scholarship named in honor of the legendary horseman and scholar Jack Fritz who co-founded the IHSA while a professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University with then-student, Robert Cacchione.
        Click here for more information. 
      • The Joan Johnson Memorial Award: 
        Deadline: February 20th
        Description: This is a national scholarship in honor of Joan Johnson, affectionately known as "JJ". JJ was one of the founding members of the IHSA, dedicating much of her life towards the success of the organization. She was a coach at Stony Brook University, Associate National Steward (1967-2000), Zone 3 chairperson and chair of the Scholarship Foundation since its inception. Through her uncommon devotion and leadership, JJ truly was a crucial element in the development of the IHSA
        Click here for more information. 
      • The Emily Jane Hilscher Memorial Award: 
        Deadline: February 20th
        Description: This award was created in memory of Hilscher, a 19-year-old freshman studying veterinary science, who was among the victims of the rampage at Virginia Tech in 2007. From Woodville, Virginia she was a horsewoman, animal lover, enthusiastic cook and imaginative artisan. She was a member of the IHSA, competing with the Virginia Tech Equestrian Team.
        Click here for more information. 
      • The Margaret "Maggie" Blackmon Memorial Award: 
        Deadline: February 20th
        Description: This award was created in memory of Blackmon, a 20-year-old junior studying anthropology at St. Lawrence University. A three-year member of the St. Lawrence riding team, Blackmon passed away suddenly in 2020. Her love of horses and riding led her to develop tremendous skills and knowledge transferable to all aspects of her life. This scholarship recognizes a collegiate rider who demonstrates a similar passion and commitment to the sport.
        Click here for more information. 

        United States Pony Clubs Scholarships: Must be active Pony Club members for all below

        • Triple Crown Nutrition College Scholarship: $1,000 and winners choice of 5 free bags of Triple Crown Feed
          Deadline: March 31st
          Description: Awarded annually to reward Pony Club members for excellence in academic pursuits and outstanding achievements. Pony Club members who have achieved a C-2 HM or higher and have an overall GPA of at least 3.0 are eligible. 
          Click here to read more. 
        • Dorothy Renfro Memorial College Scholarship: $1,000
          Deadline: March 31st
          Description: Awarded annually for higher education to an active Pony Club member who exhibits the qualities that Dorothy Renfro valued most: leadership, horse management, and volunteering time and energy to beneficial activities.
          Click here for more information. 
        • Stanley R. and Martha C. Helbert Memorial College Scholarship: $1,000
          Deadline: March 31st
          Description: Awarded annually to encourage Pony Club members in their academic pursuits in Liberal, Visual, Fine, Decorative, Applied or Performing Arts areas such as painting, sculpting, ceramics, film making, design/architecture, graphic, industrial or interior design, decorative arts, theatre, music or literature. Members must have at least a 3.0 GPA in their academics.
          Click here for more information. 
        • United States Pony Clubs Jubilee College Scholarships: two $1,000 scholarships
          Deadline: March 31st
          Description: Two scholarships to be awarded annually to reward Pony Club members for excellence in academic pursuits and outstanding achievements. Members must have either achieved a Pony Club certification of B or higher and have at least a 3.0 GPA average in their academics OR achieved a certification of C-2 HM or higher and at least a 3.5 GPA in their academics.
          Click here for more information.
        • The Anson W.H. Taylor Memorial Scholarship: $1,500
          Deadline: March 31st
          Description: This scholarship is co-sponsored by USPC and Equine Land Conservation Resource. It is awarded to a current Pony Club member who has been active with, and committed to, efforts on behalf of land conservation. Members must have entered their senior year of high school at the time of application, and have been accepted to (or attending) an institution of higher education and have achieved a C-2 HM or higher certification and at least a 3.0 GPA in their academics.
          Click here for more information. 
        • The Bodgie Read Memorial Scholarship for Dressage and Event Riders: $1,000
          Deadline: March 31st
          Description: This scholarship its awarded annually to a Dressage or Eventing certified current member who exhibits the qualities that Bodgie Read valued most: volunteerism and participation in Dressage and Eventing. More info here.

        The Jockey Club Scholarships

        • The Jockey Club Scholarship: $15,000 ($7,500 per semester)
          Deadline: Application is closed for the 2024-2025 academic year; will reopen in 2025
          Description: Scholarship for students in academic pursuit of majors for future employment in the equine industry. Open to any equine breed or discipline; preference will be given to candidates with the academic credentials, work experience, and expressed desire to secure employment in the Thoroughbred industry. 
          Click here for more information. 
        • The Jockey Club Vision Scholarship: $20,000 ($10,000 per semester)
          Deadline: Application is closed for the 2024-2025 academic year; will reopen in 2025
          Description: Scholarship for a student who is from a minority racial or ethnic group: Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, American Indian or Native Alaskan, Asian, Hispanic or Latino, or Black or African American. Open to undergraduates and graduate students enrolled in a full-time program. Open to any equine breed or discipline; preference will be given to candidates with the academic credentials, work experience, and expressed desire to secure employment in the Thoroughbred industry.
          Click here for more information. 
        • The Jockey Club Advancement of Women in Racing Scholarship: $20,000 ($10,000 per semester)
          Deadline: Application is closed for the 2024-2025 academic year; will reopen in 2025
          Description: Open to women only. Open to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a full-time program. Open to any equine breed or discipline; preference will be given to candidates with the academic credentials, work experience, and expressed desire to secure employment in the Thoroughbred industry.
          Click here for more information. 
        • The Jockey Club Benevolence Scholarship: $15,000 ($7,500 per semester)
          Deadline: Application is closed for the 2024-2025 academic year; will reopen in 2025
          Description: Scholarship to reduce financial hardship for a low-income student to enable attendance at a full-time program at a college, university, or trade program. Selection based on financial need, leadership skills in extracurricular activities, and proposed career path. Preference to backstretch and horse farm employees and their family members.
          Click here for more information.

          Kentucky Farm Bureau Scholarships

          • Application is closed for 2024; will reopen in 2025
          • Eligibility: Must be a child of Kentucky Farm Bureau member and remain such while the scholarship is in force
          • Must finish high school within the year the scholarship is applied for.
          • Click her for more information. 

          Kentucky Hunter Jumper Association Scholarship

          • KHJA Scholarship: $2,000
            Deadline: November 1st
            Description: Applicant must be a current member of KHJA and have been for at least 3 years. Applicant must be a high school senior entering college, a full time undergraduate student, or an adult seeking a certification or continuing education credit. 
            Click here for more information. 

          University of Louisville Equine Industry Program Scholarships: For UofL students only

          • AIM Equine Scholarship: from $500-$1,500 per year
            Deadline: March 1st
            Description: Awarded to Equine Industry Program majors with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA who demonstrate personal development and leadership outside the classroom  through documented participation in equine-related events and programs approved by the Equine Industry Program Scholarship Committee. 
            Click here for more information. 
          • The Kent Hollingsworth Memorial Scholarship: award is two semesters-$2,500/semester total $5,000
            Description: Awarded to a sophomore/junior/senior majoring in Equine Business who in the opinion of the Department of Equine Business exemplifies qualities of scholarship and professionalism.
            Click here for more information. 
          • Thalheimer Memorial Scholarship: one-time award of $10,000 to be distributed as $5,000 for the fall semester and $5,000 for the spring semester.
            Description: To be awarded to an incoming freshman Equine Business major with a minimum ACT composite score of 25 and minimum ACT Math score of 26, who demonstrates a financial need to attend. 
            Click here for more information. 
          • Equine Industry Program General Scholarship: this award is two semesters-$2,500/semester total $5,000
            Description: Awarded to an incoming freshman/sophomore/junior majoring in Equine Business (may be split). Based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and need. 
            Click here for more information. 
          • Chuck E Schmidt Memorial Scholarship: the award is two semesters-$2,500/semester total $5,000
            Description: Awarded to a sophomore/junior/senior majoring in Equine Business (may be split) who in the opinion of the Equine Industry Program exemplifies qualities of scholarship and professionalism. 
            Click here for more information. 
          • Timothy T. Capps Memorial Scholarship: the award is two semesters-$1,000/ semester total $2,000
            Description: This memorial scholarship was established in 2017 in memory of the late Timothy T. Capps, director of the University of Louisville Equine Industry Program from 2011-2017 and a highly regarded consultant in the Thoroughbred horse racing industry. The Timothy T. Capps Memorial Scholarship will be awarded annually to an Equine Business student at the University of Louisville who possess the same positive qualities that Capps exhibited throughout his life-a strong will, a desire to succeed and learn, and a passion for horses. 
            Click here for more information. 
          • Horse Racing Nation Equine Scholarship
            Description: This scholarship is named for Horse Racing Nation, a Louisville-based media outlet committed to full-time US thoroughbred coverage. HRN is a community for those passionate about equine sports, providing a fresh take on current events in thoroughbred racing. This scholarship makes it possible for students in the equine field to pursue a career in an industry that Kentucky is famous for. To be awarded to an incoming freshman/sophomore/junior/senior Equine student who has a focus on the horse racing industry. 
            Click here for more information. 

          US Equestrian Scholarship

          • Higher Education Equestrian Scholarship: five $1,000 scholarships
            Deadline: July 31st
            Description: US Equestrian offers this scholarship to high school seniors preparing to enter a college or university. Funds are provided to students interested in furthering his or her equestrian knowledge and skills throughout college. Applicants must continue to be involved in equestrian related experiences throughout college. This can be through an equestrian-related degree or classes, participation in an intercollegiate equestrian team or club, an equestrian related internship, job, volunteer work, or any other proven commitment to continued involvement and education in equestrian sport. Must be an active or subscribing member of USEF.
            Click here for more information. 

          United States Hunter Jumper Association Scholarship

          • Hamel Family Scholarship: $25,000
            Deadline: May 15th
            Description: The Hamel Scholarship for Further Education is designed to encourage further education among equestrians. Must have a two-year consecutive USHJA Membership, and may only receive the scholarship one time.
            Click here for more information. 

          Appaloosa Horse Club Scholarships

          • The Appaloosa Youth Foundation Territory Scholarship: up to five $1,000 scholarships. 
            Deadline: April 15th
            Description: The Territory Scholarship awards up to $1,000 to one graduating senior from high school. Each applicant must be a current member of the Appaloosa Horse Club or the Appaloosa Youth Association.
            Click here for more information. 
          • The Appaloosa Youth Foundation Continuing Education Scholarship: $1,000
            Deadline: April 15th
            Description:  The Appaloosa Youth Foundation awards scholarships to outstanding youth members of the Appaloosa Horse Club or Appaloosa Youth Association wishing to pursue higher education.
            Click here for more information. 
          • The Sagebrush Circuit-Lew & JoAnn Eklund Educational Scholarship
            Deadline: April 15th
             Description: This scholarship is funded in its entirety by donations made by the Appaloosa Youth Foundation from the dissolution of funds of the Sagebrush Circuit. This scholarship is the highest attainable scholarship available from the Appaloosa Youth Foundation. Each applicant must be a current member of the Appaloosa Horse Club or the Appaloosa Youth Association.
            Click here for more information. 

          The Christian Harness Horsemen's Association Scholarship

          • John and Janet Klark Memorial Scholarship: amount TBD
            Deadline: May 31st
            Description: To assist students from Christian families involved in harness racing in continuing their education by providing financial aid to worthy applicants. 
            Click here for more information. 
          • Rambling Willie Scholarship: amount TBD
            Deadline: May 31st
            Description: To assist students from Christian families involved in harness racing in continuing their education by providing financial aid to worthy applicants. 
            Click here for more information. 

          The RACE for Education Scholarships 

          • The Race for Education KEEP Foundation Scholarship: up to $5,000 per year
            Deadline: May 3rd
            Description: This scholarship is in partnership with the Kentucky Equine Education Project Foundation. The Race for Education Scholarship is available to a Kentucky student pursuing a field of study in the equine, animal science or agricultural industry and/or whose family is employed in the equine industry.
            Click here for more information.
          • Dr. Judy G. Willard Scholarship: up to $1,000 per year
            Deadline: May 3rd
            Description: Dr. Judy G. Willard Scholarship is funded in memory of Dr. Judy Willard, Professor of the Equine Program at Morehead State University for over 33 years. This scholarship is for a student in good standing with an Animal Science major with Equine emphasis at Morehead State University wishing to pursue a career in the equine industry. 
            Click here for more information. 
          • WinStar Farm Scholarship: up to $4,000 per year
            Deadline: May 3rd 
            Description: The WinStar Farm Scholarship is available to a student whose family member is employed by WinStar Farm attending a college or university, pursuing any field of study.
          • Click here for more information. 

          American Hackney Horse Society Foundation Scholarships

          • The AHHS Foundation Scholarship
            Deadline: July 1st of the year in which the applicant will be an incoming freshman college student. 
            Description: Awarded to high school graduates on the basis of submitted evidence of academic success, financial need, extracurricular activities (including community service), involvement with Hackney Horses and/or Ponies and personal references. 
            Click here for more information. 

          Harness Horse Youth Foundation Scholarships

          • The Curt Greene Memorial Scholarship: stipend of up to $2,500
            Deadline: April 30th
            Description: The Curt Greene Memorial Scholarship is for students who have demonstrated a passion for harness racing and have financial need. Applicant may or may not be pursuing a career in harness racing industry. Applicant must be at least a high school senior. 
            Click here for more information. 
          • The Sweet Karen Alumni Scholarship: stipend of up to $1,000
            Deadline: April 30th
            Description: Applicants must have previously attended a Harness Horse Youth Foundation youth, leadership or HRYL summer program or a family weekend event. Amount and number of scholarships issued is at the discretion of the selection committee. The scholarship honors HHYF trotter and Facebook sensation Sweet Karen.
            Click here for more information. 

          National FFA Organization Scholarships

          • The 2024-2025 scholarship application will open November 1st
          • Description: Senior FFA members in high school or FFA alumni in college can complete one application to be considered for multiple scholarship opportunities totaling nearly $2.5 million.
            Click here for more information.

          American Quarter Horse Foundation Scholarships

          • Deadline: January 15th
          • Description: Applicants can complete a single application to determine eligibility for all available scholarships. Eligibility of applicants is based on the individual criteria and requirements provided for each scholarship offered. Only one scholarship will be awarded per recipient. Funding ranges from $1,000 to $50,000.
            Click here for more information.

          General Scholarships:

            • Adrianna Andreini Scholarship: Ideal candidates are a current AQHYA or AQHA member with a minimum cumulative 2.5 grade point average. Members may apply beginning their sophomore year of college. 
            • AQHF Youth Scholarship: Ideal candidates are members of AQHYA or AQHA who have completed a minimum of three years cumulative membership; are ranked within the upper 25% of their high school graduating class; exhibit an affinity for the advancement of the American Quarter Horse, and demonstrate leadership potential. Members must be a high school or home schooled senior when applying. 
            • Boon San Kitty Scholarship: Courtesy of the Walton Family Foundation. Ideal candidates are a current AQHYA or AQHA member with a minimum cumulative 3.0 grade point average.
            • Scoop Vessels Scholarship: Ideal candidates are current members of AQHA who demonstrate a strong work ethic and financial need. Members must apply while enrolled as a sophomore in an accredited college or university. 
            • Rusty and Kay Moody Post-Graduate Scholarships: Ideal candidates are a current AQHA member with a minimum cumulative 3.0 grade point average. Members must apply while enrolled at an accredited college or university. Funding for this scholarship will be applied to a two-year graduate level degree program of the student's choice. 
            • Frank & Lin Berris Scholarship: deal candidate is a current member of AQHYA or AQHA. Members may apply during their senior year of high school or while enrolled at an accredited college or university and must maintain a minimum cumulative 2.5 grade point average. Funding for this scholarship may be applied to either a two or four-year degree program of the student’s choice, or an accredited equine-related vocational program.
            • Shawn Maree Vaillant Memorial Scholarship: Ideal candidate is a current AQHA or AQHYA member and resident of the United States or Canada. Members may apply during their senior year of high school or while enrolled at an accredited college or university and purse a degree program of their choice. Recipient should exemplify the qualities gained through horsemanship activities, including outstanding leadership and communication skills, as well as courage, determination, and compassion.
            • Youth Activities Scholarship: Ideal candidates are a current member of AQHYA in good standing who have successfully participated in at least one Level 2 or 3 championship class OR have competed in a designated AQHYA championship competition at the Youth World Show. Although competition at the show is an eligibility requirement, placings are NOT considered when selecting the scholarship recipient. Members must apply during their senior year of high school and should maintain a minimum cumulative 2.5 grade point average. Recipient will be announced during the Youth World Show.
            Career Path Scholarships: 
            • Margaret A. Haines Telephony Scholarship: Ideal candidates have been a member of AQHA for at least one year who is attending an AVMA-accredited college of veterinary medicine; whose studies focus on equine medicine and or surgery, and has a minimum cumulative 3.0 grade point average. Recipient must pursue an equine-focused veterinary practice. Applicant must be enrolled as a third year veterinary school student when applying. Funding for this scholarship will be applied to the student's last year of the veterinary program. 
            • Charles B. Wang Excellence in Equine & Agricultural Involvement Scholarship: Ideal candidates are a current AQHYA or AQHA member who exemplifies the characteristics of leadership and excellence acquired through participation in equine and or agriculture activities; has a minimum cumulative 3.5 grade point average demonstrating academic proficiency, and does not compete in AQHA-approved shows. Member must apply during their senior year of high school or while enrolled at an accredited college or university.
            • Amy D. Bell "Pay It Forward" Memorial Scholarship: Ideal candidate is a member of AQHYA or AQHA who has completed three years cumulative membership; a member of National Youth Cutting Horse Association or National Reined Cow Horse Youth Association for three years or more; has a minimum cumulative 3.0 grade point average; and who exemplifies the qualities of compassion, benevolence and fortitude acquired through civic activities. Member must apply during their senior year of high school.
            • Charles B. Wang Farm & Ranch Heritage Scholarship: Ideal candidates are current AQHYA or AQHA members from farming and or ranching backgrounds representing the outstanding education, expertise or life skills gained through participation in agricultural activities; have a minimum cumulative 3.0 grade point average; and do not compete in AQHA-approved shows. Member must apply during their senior year of high school or while enrolled at an accredited college or university. 
            • Guy Stoops Professional Horsemen's Family Scholarship: Ideal candidates are current AQHA or AQHYA members whose parent(s) are a current member of the AQHA Professional Horseman's Association, with membership in good standing for three or more years. Members must apply during their senior year of high school or while enrolled at an accredited college, university or vocational school. 

            State and Regional Scholarships

            • Britney Joe Unbridled Spirit Scholarship: Ideal candidate must be a resident of Kentucky who has been a member of the Kentucky Quarter Horse Youth Association and American Quarter Horse Youth Association for at least two years, one year of which must be the applicant's last eligible year of youth. Candidates may apply during their freshman year of college in anticipation of continuing their sophomore, junior and senior years as an undergraduate enrolled at an accredited college or university of their choice. Successful candidates must demonstrate a documented history of participating in, promoting and fostering KyQHYA and its programs in a meaningful way.

              Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation Research Career Development Awards

              • The Storm Cat Award: $20,000
                Deadline: November 1st
                Description: The Storm Cat Award is a competitive program intended to promote development of promising investigators by providing a one year salary supplement. This program is restricted to one award per year and is named in honor of the famous Thoroughbred Stallion at Overbrook Farm. 
                Click here for more information. 
              • The Elaine and Bertram Klein Development Award: $20,000
                Deadline: November 1st
                Description: The Elaine and Bertram Klein Development Award is a competitive program intended to promote development of promising investigators by providing a one year salary supplement of $20,000. This program is restricted to one award per year and is named in memory of a renowned horsewoman and her late husband.
                Click here for more information. 

              Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) Awards and Scholarships

              • Deadline: variable; see SAVMA website for deadlines for each award.
              • Description: SAVMA House of Delegates Committees awards grants and stipends to vet students across many categories each year.
                Click here for more information.
              • Various awards are given annually from the below committees: 
              • Animal Welfare and Environmental Stewardship Committee
              • Education and Professional Development Committee
              • Governmental Affairs Committee
              • Integrative Communications and Diversity Committee
              • International Veterinary Experience Committee
              • Public Health and Community Outreach Committee
              • Global and Public Health Officers
              • SAVMA Wellbeing Committee

              USDA 1890 National Scholars Program

              • Deadline: March 1st
              • Description: The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program is aimed at bolstering educational and career opportunities for students from rural or underserved communities around the country. It was established in 1992 as part of the partnership between USDA and the 1890 land-grant universities, aimed at increasing the number of students from rural and underserved communities who study food, agriculture, natural resource and other related sciences. The scholarship provides recipients with full tuition, fees, books, room and board. Scholars attend one of the 1890 land-grant universities and pursue degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines. The scholarship may also include work experience at USDA. 
                Click here for more information.

                Does your group or educational institution offer a scholarship you would like added to our list? Email your information to the Kentucky Horse Council office at sarah@kentuckyhorse.org

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