Celebrating the Future of Montana 4-H

We support youth through scholarships that fund education, leadership, and hands-on growth. From college to trade school, these opportunities help young Montanans build brighter futures and stronger communities.

Three young adults in graduation caps and gowns, smiling at a ceremony with shamrock decorations on the background wall.

How to Apply

Applying is simple: just complete one scholarship application to be considered for multiple Montana 4-H Foundation scholarships.

  • Deadline: February 14

  • Where to Apply: Scholarship applications are done online using the scholarship platform "Kaleidoscope". Use the link here or below to access the application.

  • Who Can Apply: Current or former 4-H members pursuing further education or leadership development opportunities.

Awarding of scholarships is based on availability of funds, and all applications are carefully reviewed in alignment with donor criteria and Foundation priorities.

  • One (1) scholarship of $1,000

    Purpose:
    This endowed scholarship was established in 2011 by the Anton “Tony” Sundsted family in honor of the pioneers who settled over 100 years ago, to assist young men and women in their pursuit of advanced education. It is for students who have demonstrated entrepreneurship through not only 4-H projects but also involvement in their community, church and school by embracing the ideals of leadership, responsibility and integrity.
    Applicant requirements:

    1.  A Montana resident.

    2.  4-H member for at least three years.

    3. Accepted into an accredited institution of higher education including both 2 year and 4 year programs in Montana, North Dakota, Idaho, Wyoming or Washington.

    4. Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater.

    5. Preference will be given to incoming freshman. However, current undergraduates will also be considered.

    6. Pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study as it relates to production, sciences, economics, education/communications and engineering.

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    Family and friends created this scholarship to honor Barbara Edens, an educator and longtime 4-H supporter and leader. This scholarship will be awarded to 4-H members exemplifying leadership, sportsmanship, and communication through involvement in the Montana 4-H horse project. 
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Graduating high school seniors.

    2. ​ Montana 4-H members active in leadership and the horse project

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    In 2017, the King family established a scholarship endowment to honor Bob and Margaret King. Both Bob and Margaret were big supporters of 4-H and appreciated the opportunities it gave their children and grandchildren. Bob believed that everyone should have a chance to go to college, and this scholarship helps in representing his belief. 
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Open to incoming freshman or current students

    2. Must have participated in 4-H livestock projects (other than horse)

    3. Be attending an in-state institution of higher learning, including two-year vocational, trade or technical schools

    4. Have a 2.5 GPA or greater

    5. May receive the scholarship more than once, however preference will be given to new applicants

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • Two (2) scholarships of $500 each

    Purpose:
    Cascade County cattleman Bud Dawson left an estate gift which will include scholarships for youth participating in the 4-H livestock projects. Priority may be given to Cascade and surrounding county applicants.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a graduating high school senior

    2. Be a Montana 4-H member who has been active in livestock projects

    3. Preference given to Cascade County members

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    This scholarship was established in 2014 in memory of Carson Christensen for Stillwater County 4-H members who have been enrolled in the beef project. Preference will be given to those pursuing a career associated with the beef industry.  ​
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be high school senior, or high school graduate with at least one year of post-secondary education remaining

    2. Have maintained a 2.0 GPA

    3. Have been enrolled in the 4-H beef project in Stillwater County

    4. Be accepted or already enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution (including vocational, trade or technical school)

    5. Preference will be given to students pursuing a degree/career associated with the beef industry.

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $3,000

    Purpose:
    The Cedric & Elfriede Maurer Memorial Scholarship was established by the Maurer family to honor their parents Cedric and Elfriede, who farmed and ranched in Teton County and were long-time 4-H leaders. The scholarship will be awarded to 4-Hers who show dedication to 4-H and a history of volunteering and active involvement in their community. Preference will be given to residents of north central Montana, specifically Teton, Cascade, Chouteau and Pondera counties.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Resident of Montana

    2. Montana 4-H member for at least 3 years

    3. High school senior, or high school graduate with at least one year of post-secondary education remaining

    4. Be accepted or already enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution in Montana, including 2-year trade or vocational school

    5. Preference will be given to applicants from north central Montana, specifically Teton, Cascade, Choteau and Pondera counties

    6. Demonstrated history of community involvement and volunteering

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $1,500

    Purpose:
    This endowed scholarship, established in 2019, will assist current college/university undergraduates attending any institute of higher education. Applicant must show a minimum of 3 years of 4-H experience in Montana.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Open to current full-time college/university students who are pursuing a degree in agriculturebusiness, or related field

    2. Only undergraduate students may apply.

    3. Student may be attending any institute of higher learning.

    4. Student must have a 2.5 GPA or greater.

    5. Student may not receive scholarship more than once.

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater as a full-time student

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $1,000
    Purpose:
    Dora Lindner was a lifelong supporter of 4-H. She was involved for many years as she grew up, raising market animals and participating in different ways. As an adult, Dora encouraged and supported her children in their own journeys through 4-H. 

    In 2023 Dora's family, along with huge support from friends, established a scholarship endowment in her memory.
    Dora was a cherished leader and volunteer in Lewis and Clark County. She helped youth of all ages as the Superintendent for Teen Leaders, Exploring 4-H, and Cloverbuds for many years. She was also the Overall Indoor Superintendent, Communication Day Coordinator, and a 4-H Camp Coordinator for several years. 

    Dora was an avid photographer and loved to document the activities of 4-H youth, especially the Dog project. She did so much for the organization that it is impossible to list all the ways she was involved and all the lives she touched. She enthusiastically educated 4-H youth and will continue to support them through this scholarship. Her family and friends hope this endowment will honor her loving, kind, and fun 4-H spirit for years to come. 

    Application Requirements:
    1. Be an incoming freshman or current student.
    2. Be attending an accredited post-secondary institution, including two-year vocational or trade school.
    3. Have a GPA of 2.5 or higher after the first grading period at post-secondary institution.

    Application Preferences:
    1. Be a current or former Lewis and Clark County 4-H member.
    2. Have participated in at least one indoor project or the dog project.

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater as a full-time student

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    This scholarship was established as a memorial to Doug and Nancy Dear, instrumental contributors to the Montana 4-H Horse Program. The scholarship will assist an individual with an interest or background in the 4-H Horse Project who will be attending a college or university. 

    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a high school senior

    2. Show proficiency in Montana 4-H work in the horse project over a period of three years, preferably more

    3. Prefer that the recipient had participated in the State Horse Show and/or Working Ranch Horse Forum.

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    This endowed scholarship, established in 2015, will assist an incoming freshman or college undergraduate attending a Montana institute of higher education. Recipient must have lived in or participated in 4-H in a First Security Bank service area (see details below).
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a high school senior or college undergraduate

    2. Have a minimum GPA of 2.5

    3. Attend a Montana institute of higher education (trade school, 2-year or 4-year programs acceptable)

    4. Live in or have participated in 4-H in a county within a First Security Bank service area. Priority given to Gallatin, Chouteau and Liberty Counties. If no qualified applicants from these counties, recipient may be from Park, Madison, Meagher, Teton, Hill, Blaine, Pondera, Fergus, Cascade or Judith Basin Counties.

    5. Student may receive scholarship more than once if selected

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • Ten (10) scholarships of $1,000

    Purpose:
    The June Beaver Scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a line of study related to agriculture. This scholarship is made possible annually through the generosity of June Beaver, who is impressed by 4-H youth and their accomplishments.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be an incoming freshman or current student.

    2. Be attending an accredited post-secondary institution, including two-year vocational or trade school.

    3. Have a GPA of 2.5 or higher after the first grading period at post-secondary institution.

    4. Have at least 3 years of experience with Montana 4-H. 

    Application Preferences:

    1. Pursuing an agricultural-related degree.


    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $750

    Purpose:
    Scholarship will be awarded to a former 4-H member pursuing a degree in an agricultural field. Montana Turkey Growers, a growers’ cooperative that no longer exists, originally provided funds for a small endowment. In 2012, Montana Agricultural Business Association (MABA) and the Montana Grain Elevator Association (MGEA) joined forces to fully fund the scholarship endowment.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Show a proficiency in Montana 4-H work over a period of at least three years

    2. Be a senior in high school or currently pursuing a degree in an agricultural field at a Montana college

    3. Preference to student pursuing a degree in plant science, agronomy or agri-business

    4. Preference given to applicants involved in MABA/MGEA

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    The Montana 4-H Council established an endowment with the Montana 4-H Foundation in 2009 to be used for leadership opportunities for Montana 4-H youth and volunteers. A scholarship to assist a former 4-Her pursue higher education will be awarded in 2012.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a Montana Resident

    2. Be a 4-H member for at least three years

    3. Be attending an in- or out-of-state institution of higher learning, including two-year vocational, trade or technical schools, as an undergraduate student

    4. Have completed 2 semesters (or the equivalent) at a college or university at the time of award

    5. Be enrolled in good standing with their institution

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term


    One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    The Montana 4-H Council established an endowment with the Montana 4-H Foundation to be used for leadership opportunities for Montana 4-H volunteers. This scholarship was established to assist a current 4-H volunteer pursue higher education.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a Montana Resident

    2. Be attending an in- or out-of-state institution of higher learning, including two-year vocational, trade or technical schools, as an undergraduate student

    3. Have completed 2 semesters (or the equivalent) at a college or university at the time of award

    4. Be enrolled in good standing with their institution

    5. Currently enrolled as a 4-H volunteer.

    6. If not currently enrolled as a 4-H volunteer, then have at least 3+ years as a 4-H member and meet the above criteria.

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    The Montana 4-H Shooting Sports Committee first recognized an outstanding shooting sports member with a college scholarship in 2010. The recipient excels in the shooting sports project, as well as leadership, community service, and ethical behavior.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be an incoming college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors enrolled in any college, university, or technical/trade school

    2. Have been enrolled for at least one year in a 4-H shooting sports project.

    3. Have shown a willingness to take on leadership roles and have worked with younger 4-H members in any of the shooting sports disciplines.

    4. Have participated in community service activities through 4-H Shooting sports

    5. Have promoted the 4-H Shooting sports project in a positive light

    6. Have shown ethical behavior in competitive settings

    Selection will be determined by a committee made up of members of the Montana State 4-H Shooting Sports Advisory Committee. Applications will be accepted under the guidelines of the Montana 4-H Foundation.
    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $1,000

    Purpose:
    The Montana Farm Bureau Foundation Scholarship, established in 2013, is awarded to a student pursuing an agriculture-related degree. 
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be an incoming freshman or current student.

    2. Be attending an accredited post-secondary institution, including two-year vocational or trade school.

    3. Have a GPA of 2.5 or higher after the first grading period at post-secondary institution.

    4. Have at least 3 years of experience with Montana 4-H.

    Application Preferences:

    1. Pursuing an agricultural-related degree.

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • Two (2) scholarship of $1,250

    Purpose:
    The Montana Wheat and Barley Committee Scholarship is to assist students pursuing higher education in Montana. Montana Wheat and Barley Committee is a producer-funded arm of the Montana Department of Agriculture. The Committee conducts activities on behalf of growers such as buyer relations, trade team visits, producer relations, marketing, association engagement, funding research and sponsorships for agriculture education. Wheat and barley producer check-off dollars support these scholarships. For these scholarships, preference is given to students studying grain and crop sciences. 
    ​Applicant requirements:

    1. Be an incoming freshman or current student.

    2. Be attending an accredited post-secondary institution, including two-year vocational or trade school.

    3. Have a GPA of 2.5 or higher after the first grading period at post-secondary institution.

    4. Have at least 3 years of experience with Montana 4-H.

    ​Application Preferences:

    1. Pursuing study in grain and crop sciences.

    2. Strong 4-H work in crop/grains, agricultural/livestock, and bread or food sciences related to grains.

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • Five (5) scholarships of $1,000 each

    Purpose:
    The Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply provides five (5) scholarships of $1,000 each. These scholarships are to be awarded to eligible Montana high school students. Students who can demonstrate a dedication to 4-H and the ideals of Leadership, Responsibility and Integrity should apply. In addition, applicants will be evaluated based on their academic achievement, their involvement with 4-H and their commitment to community service.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a high school senior

    2. Be a resident of Montana

    3. Have at least 3 years of experience in Montana 4-H

    4. Be accepted into a college, university or accredited institution of higher learning

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • Five (5) scholarships of $500 each

    Purpose:
    The Steer In Trailer Sales 4-H Scholarship was established in 2015 to assist five 4-Hers who have taken the livestock or horse project. Applicants from Gallatin, Broadwater, Madison-Jefferson and Park Counties will be given priority for two of the five scholarships.
    Steer In Trailer Sales, located in Three Forks, Montana, is a large horse, stock, utility, flatbed and cargo trailer dealership that proudly supports Montana 4-Hers.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a high school senior or an undergraduate in an institution of higher education, including vocational, trade or technical schools. At least four scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors.

    2. Be a Montana resident

    3. Have at least two years of 4-H experience

    4. Have a 2.5 GPA or higher

    5. Have been enrolled in the livestock or horse project

    6. Residents of Gallatin, Broadwater, Madison-Jefferson and Park Counties will be given priority for at least two of the scholarships

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • Two (2) scholarship of $1,000

    Purpose:
    The TrailWest Leadership Scholarship will assist incoming or current students attending a 4 year institute of higher learning in Montana, who are pursuing a career in agricultural business or finance.  This scholarship is sponsored by TrailWest Bank.

    ​Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a high school senior or undergraduate student

    2. Be a Montana resident

    3. Have at least a 2.5 GPA

    4. Plan to attend a Montana 4-year college

    5. Preference is given to those seeking a degree in Agriculture Business or Finance


    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.5 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    The W. Doyle Stocks Scholarship has been established to benefit a worthy Montana student planning to attend MSU-Bozeman. Preference is given to those studying Agriculture or Family Consumer Science.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a Montana resident

    2. Be a Montana 4-H member for at least three years

    3. Have a Montana 4-H background

    4. Be a graduating high school senior planning to attend MSU-Bozeman

    5. Have a High School GPA of 3.0 or higher

    6. Preference given to a 4-H member pursuing a degree in a field of agriculture or family consumer science

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 3.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

  • One (1) scholarship of $500

    Purpose:
    Through the generosity of the Wilcox Family, the Montana 4-H Foundation has established a scholarship program that will award $500 to eligible Montana high school students from Musselshell-Golden Valley or Rosebud-Treasure Counties, who have demonstrated a dedication to 4-H and to the ideals of Leadership, Responsibility and Integrity. In addition, applicants will be evaluated based on their academic achievement, their service and involvement with 4-H, and their contributions to their community.
    Applicant requirements:

    1. Be a High School Senior

    2. Be a Montana 4-H member in Musselshell-Golden Valley or Rosebud-Treasure counties

    3. Have 3 years' experience in Montana 4-H

    4. Be accepted into an accredited institution of higher education

    5. Have a High School GPA of 3.0 or higher

    Distribution of Funds
    Scholarship funds will be sent to the college or university on behalf of the recipient. Before this is done, the recipient must:

    • Have completed most recent semester with a GPA of 2.0 or greater

    • Be enrolled for a second term

Scholarships Available

Wondering what information you will need to have prepared to complete the online application?

Use this document to ensure you have all of the required information.

A young man crouches on a sidewalk next to a row of sheep, taking notes on a notepad. The scene is outdoors with greenery and fences in the background.

Change Lives with Your Generosity

We raise private support and partner with MSU Extension to fund life-changing opportunities for Montana 4-H youth, volunteers, and staff.

Have questions about scholarships or want to support Montana 4-H? We’d love to hear from you.