CAES Rural Scholars Program
The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) Rural Scholars Program recognizes the duty of our college to promote a student population that reflects the diversity of the entire state. This program aims to increase rural student involvement by eliminating financial obstacles and providing world-class opportunities to students. Candidates must be incoming, first-year University of Georgia students from one of Georgia’s rural communities. The optimal candidate has excelled academically, shown strong leadership abilities, has a record of community service, and seeks a degree in CAES. The Rural Scholars Program is rooted in our CAES family atmosphere. Scholars are provided support, guidance and experiential learning opportunities. Scholars also have access to transformative programs like Thrive at Georgia and UGA’s ALL Georgia Program.
Giving to CAES Rural Scholars Program
By providing support for rural scholars, your gift can help recruit bright, capable students from all corners of the state who will learn to tackle the complex challenges in agricultural and environmental sciences from industry sustainability and policy-making to advancing technology and research.
One time and recurring gifts can support annual costs. Endowments to establish a named CAES Rural Scholars fund in perpetuity range from $100,000 (funds 1/2 scholarship) to $200,000 (funds full scholarship). A gift of $25,000 provides funds for one scholar. Endowed and non-endowed gift options can be completed over multiple years.
Give Today
- Make a one-time or recurring gift to the CAES Rural Scholars Operational Fund.
- Create an endowment that will ensure student support in perpetuity.
- Build a legacy through Planned Giving.
- Multiply the impact of your gift through Matching Gifts.
Application, Selection Process and Eligibility
The program will welcome a cohort of students each year and each eligible Rural Scholar will receive an academic scholarship of $7,000 annually over four years. The scholarship can be used to cover the remainder of a student's UGA expenses, including tuition, housing, meal plan, books, transportation costs, etc.
Visit the CAES Rural Scholars Program page for students to find information additional details for interested applicants. A list of currently eligible rural counties in Georgia is also available on the page.