Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies

U.S. college sophomores and juniors who demonstrate academic achievement are eligible for this award. Students must be majoring in a field related to the environment. Application requirements for the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies are:Nomination Application form Essay Recommendation letters (3) Official Transcript

Udall Undergraduate Scholarship (Environmental Studies) 2026: Application Outlook

The Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Scholarship awards up to $7,000 to approximately 55 sophomores and juniors annually in the U.S. tribal public policy/health care category and in the environment/natural resources category. For 2026, the environmental studies track requires a demonstrated commitment to environmental careers and active leadership in environmental issues. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or permanent residents nominated by their college (typically through the campus Honors college or fellowships office). The application closes in early March; finalists are notified in April.

Application Strategy

Udall is a competitive and prestigious federal scholarship - acceptance rate runs roughly 8-10% of nominees, and only ~50-60% of eligible colleges actually nominate every year. Step one: confirm your college has a campus representative for the Udall (most do, but it's not always advertised). Step two: have a clearly defined environmental career path (not just "I care about the environment"). Step three: the personal essay must demonstrate specific, ongoing commitment - past Udall winners have measurable environmental impact (research published, policy influenced, organization founded), not just club membership.

Why It Matters in 2026

In 2026 the Udall remains one of the most prestigious undergraduate research/policy scholarships in the U.S., often listed alongside Goldwater (STEM), Truman (public service), and Marshall (UK study) as a top federal undergraduate award. Beyond the $7,000 award, the Udall network connects scholars to environmental policy internships, federal agency mentorship, and graduate fellowship pathways. For environmentally-focused students, this is a strategic resume asset that compounds over a 10+ year career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies

How much does the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies award?

The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies awards $5,000 per recipient.

When is the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies deadline?

The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies deadline is March 2, 2027. Applicants should submit materials at least one week before the deadline to allow time for verification and any required follow-up.

Who is eligible for the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies?

Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Must demonstrate academic achievement. Must be committed to a career related to the environment. This award is for U.S. students. For full and current eligibility criteria, applicants should always verify directly on the official scholarship website before applying.

How do I apply for the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies?

Apply directly through the official Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies application page at https://www.udall.gov/OurPrograms/Scholarship/Apply.aspx. Prepare required documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, essays where applicable) before starting the application.

Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Must demonstrate academic achievement. Must be committed to a career related to the environment. This award is for U.S. students. Must be a matriculated sophomore- or junior-level student at a two-year or four-year institution of higher education, pursuing a bachelor's or associate's degree during the upcoming academic year. "Sophomore" is defined, for purposes of this award, as a student who intends at least two more years of full-time undergraduate study beginning in the fall; "junior" is defined, for purposes of this award, as a student who intends at least one more year of full-time undergraduate study beginning in the fall. Must enroll full time.In order to qualify, students must meet the following criteria:Sign Up To View