Top Scholarships for Students Interested in Environmental Studies in the U.S.

Environmental studies is a field that attracts passionate students who want to make a real difference in tackling climate change, conserving natural resources, and promoting sustainability. As interest in this field continues to grow, so does the availability of scholarships to support students pursuing a degree in environmental studies. If you’re an aspiring environmentalist looking for financial assistance, this article highlights some of the top scholarships for environmental studies students in the U.S.

1. The Udall Scholarship

Award Amount: Up to $7,000
Eligibility: Undergraduate students with a demonstrated commitment to environmental issues.
The Udall Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards for students pursuing careers related to the environment. Funded by the U.S. Congress, it recognizes students who are committed to environmental conservation and Native American health and tribal policy. Applicants must demonstrate leadership in environmental or tribal issues, with an interest in public service.

2. The David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship

Award Amount: Varies (typically covers tuition and research expenses)
Eligibility: Graduate students or recent graduates pursuing conservation research.
The David H. Smith Fellowship offers funding for students and researchers dedicated to conservation biology. This fellowship provides an opportunity for recipients to conduct significant research on a variety of conservation issues, from ecosystem preservation to wildlife management.

3. The Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF) Scholarship

Award Amount: $5,000
Eligibility: Students enrolled in a full-time program related to waste management or environmental sustainability.
EREF provides scholarships to students dedicated to environmental sustainability, particularly in the field of waste management. If you are passionate about reducing waste, promoting recycling, and developing sustainable systems, the EREF scholarship may be a great fit.

4. The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Campus Ecology Fellowships

Award Amount: Varies
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students leading campus sustainability projects.
The NWF offers fellowships to students who are working on environmental projects aimed at improving campus sustainability. If you’re involved in reducing your campus’s carbon footprint, creating green spaces, or promoting sustainability practices, this fellowship may offer the resources you need to expand your efforts.

5. The Alice Ferguson Foundation Environmental Scholarship

Award Amount: $5,000
Eligibility: High school seniors, undergraduates, or graduate students interested in environmental education, conservation, and sustainability.
The Alice Ferguson Foundation offers scholarships to students dedicated to environmental education and the conservation of natural resources in the Washington, D.C. area. Applicants are evaluated based on academic performance and a demonstrated passion for environmental stewardship.

6. The Green Scholarship Fund

Award Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing environmental science, environmental policy, or a related field.
The Green Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to students with a strong interest in pursuing a career in environmental conservation, sustainability, or ecology. This scholarship is designed to support individuals who are dedicated to making a positive environmental impact.

7. The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) Environmental Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with a passion for environmental advocacy.
The NSHSS Environmental Scholarship is open to high school students who are committed to environmental issues. This scholarship is designed to support the next generation of environmental advocates, encouraging students to pursue a degree in environmental studies or a related field.

8. The Boren Awards for International Study (Environmental Focus)

Award Amount: Up to $20,000 for undergraduates; up to $30,000 for graduate students
Eligibility: U.S. citizens interested in studying abroad with a focus on environmental studies.
Boren Awards support students who wish to study abroad and focus on issues related to global environmental sustainability. This scholarship is designed for students who want to combine their environmental education with international experiences, particularly in underdeveloped regions.

9. The Environmental Law Institute (ELI) Environmental Law Scholarships

Award Amount: Varies
Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing a law degree with an emphasis on environmental law.
If you’re interested in environmental law, ELI offers scholarships to graduate students pursuing a career in this field. The program is designed to support students who are dedicated to using the legal system to address environmental challeng

10. The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Climate Corps Fellowship

Award Amount: Stipend provided
Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing a career in environmental sustainability and clean energy.
EDF offers fellowships to graduate students interested in working on climate change solutions. Fellows are placed in organizations and government agencies to develop energy efficiency programs, promote sustainability, and tackle climate-related challenges.

Conclusion

Pursuing a degree in environmental studies can be an expensive journey, but thanks to the many scholarships available, students can find the financial support they need to follow their passions. Whether you’re interested in conservation research, sustainability, environmental law, or climate change solutions, there are numerous opportunities to receive funding and make a meaningful impact on the environment. Be sure to explore the scholarships listed above, as well as others that may align with your specific interests in environmental studies.