Scholarships of $5,000 are awarded to tertiary students interested in working as advisers in the primary sector. Learn more about the scholarships and eligibility criteria.
Applications are being sought for MPI’s On Farm Support science scholarships.
Six scholarships, valued at $5,000 each, are on offer for the 2026 academic year.
Applications close 15 September 2025.
Media release: Applications open for On Farm Support science scholarships
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) runs a scholarship programme for tertiary students to help increase the number of on-farm advisers.
The On Farm Support Science Scholarships were launched in 2023 and are worth $5,000 each.
Six scholarships are on offer for the 2026 academic year. Applications opened on 31 July and close on 15 September 2025.
To be eligible, applicants must be:
Applicants must be enrolled in one of the following degrees.
Applications for the 2026 academic year opened on 31 July 2025 and close at 5pm on 15 September 2025.
Successful scholarship recipients are expected to be announced in late 2025.
To get an application form, email onfarmsupportscholarships@mpi.govt.nz
As well as the $5,000, successful applicants will receive mentoring and development opportunities.
Media release: Applications open for On Farm Support science scholarships
Media release: Government awards primary sector scholarships to tertiary students – Beehive
Media release: Expanded scholarship programme to grow on-the-ground support for farmers and growers
Media release: Government awards primary sector scholarships to students – Beehive
These scholarships help MPI build capacity and capability for the primary industries, particularly where there are skills and advisory gaps. It's part of our work to boost on-the-ground support for farmers, growers, and whenua Māori owners.
That work includes:
Career pathways – NZ Institute of Primary Industry Management
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