The USDA Scholarship Program HBCU suspension has sent shockwaves through historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and students in agricultural, food, and natural resource science fields. If you or someone you know were relying on this funding, this post will help decode what happened, why it matters, and what you can do next.
What Was the USDA 1890 Scholars Program?
The USDA’s 1890 National Scholars Program was created in 1992 in partnership with the 19 “1890” land-grant institutions — a group of 19 historically Black colleges and universities that were established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890. (usda.gov)
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Students awarded this scholarship received full tuition, room & board, books, and fees to study agriculture, natural resources, food sciences, and related disciplines at one of these institutions. (usda.gov)
What Happened? Why the HBCU Scholarship Was Suspended
Suspension Announcement
In early 2025, the USDA posted a banner on its website stating the 1890 Scholars Program is “suspended pending further review.” (Reuters)
Impact & Scale
- In FY2024, the USDA allocated $19.2 million and supported 94 scholars under this program. (The Economic Times)
- The pause means incoming recipients for fall may have uncertain funding, and future awards may be delayed or modified. (The Guardian)
Why was it suspended?
No detailed formal explanation was released by the USDA. The department stated the review is intended to ensure “taxpayer resources are used efficiently.” (AP News)
However, critics see the move as part of broader shifts in diversity and inclusion policy, particularly affecting HBCUs and underserved communities. (The Times of India)
Reinstatement
Later in February 2025, the program was reportedly reopened for applications. (Inside Higher Ed)
Still, the future parameters, funding levels and full operational status remain uncertain.
Who Was Affected?
- Students aiming to attend one of the 19 1890 institutions who intended to major in agriculture, natural resources, food science, or related fields. (usda.gov)
- HBCUs designated as 1890 land-grant universities, whose enrollment pipelines for rural and underserved communities may now face disruption. (The Guardian)
- Future applicants and institutions that budget based on the continuation of the program.
Why It Matters: Bigger Picture & Implications
Impact on HBCUs & Equity
The 1890 program has been a key pathway for students from underserved or rural backgrounds into agriculture and natural-resource fields — fields that historically lacked diversity. The suspension raises concerns that such students will lose a vital support mechanism. (The Economic Times)
Equity in the Land-Grant System
These 19 institutions stem from a system created because of exclusion from the first Morrill Act era. The scholarship helped address longstanding disparities in access, funding and representation. Some observers argue the suspension undermines those efforts. (Reuters)
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Student & Institutional Uncertainty
With funding paused or under review, students may need to seek alternate funding at short notice. Institutions may struggle to maintain planned programs if the scholarship was foundational to enrollment or retention strategies.
What You Can Do If You’re Affected
- Contact your financial aid office or scholarship office at the 1890 institution you plan to attend. They’ll have the latest update on the program’s status.
- Explore alternative scholarships in agriculture, food science, natural resources or HBCU-specific funding.
- Stay updated with the USDA’s website for the 1890 program. According to the site, “The 2025 application cycle has closed, but you can sign up to receive updates on the next …” (usda.gov)
- Advocate: Reach out to student-government bodies or HBCU advocacy groups if you believe this program’s pause affects access and equity — many lawmakers have already voiced concerns. (The Economic Times)
🔍 Key Timeline & Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Program founded | 1992 (as a partnership between the USDA & 1890 land-grant universities) (usda.gov) |
| FY 2024 funding | Approximately $19.2 million for 94 scholars (The Economic Times) |
| Suspension announced | February 2025, website banner “suspended pending review” (Reuters) |
| Re-opening reported | Late February 2025 – still uncertain in full scope (Inside Higher Ed) |