Scholarships to support future on-farm advisers
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has a new scholarship programme for undergraduates to help increase the number of on-farm advisers.
On Farm Support science scholarships are worth $5,000 each.
Six scholarships were offered for the 2024 academic year.
Eligibility for a scholarship
To be eligible, applicants must be:
- enrolled at Lincoln University or Massey University
- studying agriculture or horticulture in one of the approved degrees listed on this page
- interested in joining the primary industry advisory sector
- a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, and
- have completed their first year of study before the start of the 2024 academic year.
Approved degrees for the scholarships
Applicants must be enrolled in one of the following degrees.
Massey University
- Bachelor of Agricultural Science (BAgSci)
- Bachelor of Animal Science (BAnSci)
- Bachelor of Horticultural Science (BHort Sci)
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Agribusiness (Farm Management).
Lincoln University
- Bachelor of Agricultural Science
- Bachelor of Agriculture
- Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science)
- Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology
- Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture)
- Bachelor of Commerce (Horticulture).
The application process
Applications opened on 11 October 2023 and closed on 22 November 2023.
Recipients of the 6 scholarships were announced in February 2024.
Media release: Government awards primary sector scholarships to students – Beehive
Benefits of getting a scholarship
As well as the $5,000, successful applicants will receive mentoring and development opportunities.
MPI supports farmers and growers
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:
- On Farm Support
- Careers Pathway Scheme
- Primary Industry Advisory Service programme
- Opportunity Grows Here
- Māori agribusiness
Find out about becoming a rural professional
Career pathways – NZ Institute of Primary Industry Management