Royal Scholars Program
The Royal Scholars program is designed to provide an opportunity for outstanding college students to represent the American Royal Mission and advocate for the agriculture industry. In recognition of the outstanding achievements of the Royal Scholars and their contribution to the mission of the American Royal, the American Royal Association will award a $3,000 scholarship to each student as a member of the program.
Questions? Contact the Education Department at [email protected]
Congratulations to the 2025 Royal Scholars.
2025 Royal Scholars Press Release
Platinum Sponsor:
Eligibility
- Between ages of 18-25 as of January 1, 2026
- Currently enrolled in a college or university majoring in agriculture, food, natural resources, or other related discipline as an undergraduate student.
- Must be an undergraduate student both semesters.
- Cumulative collegiate grade point average equivalent or about 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Former Royal Scholars are not eligible to receive the scholarship more than once.
- Individuals selected will not be able to show in the American Royal Livestock Show Market Steer, Hog, Lamb, and Goat Classes. This is due to time spent off-site during business and industry tours during the week.
Timeline
- February 1, 2026: Applications Open
- April 1, 2026: Applications Close
- May 4-22, 2026: Virtual Interviews
- 30-minute interviews
- Due to the competitive nature of the program, not all applicants will be selected for an interview. If you are chosen to move forward, you will be contacted directly on April 27, 2026
- Week of June 1, 2026: Selected Candidates Notified Via Phone
- Week of June 8, 2026: Scholarship Recipients Announced
Dates On-Site
- Livestock Show – Represent the American Royal at our oldest event, celebrating 127 years in 2026! Royal Scholars will be present through the livestock show, assist with the Junior Premium Livestock Auction, and attend business and industry visits throughout the Kansas City metro area.
- Arrival Day: Thursday, October 15, 2026
- Departure Day: Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Present for American Royal Market Show, Royal Elite Drive, Junior Premium Livestock Auction
- Youth Rodeo and Spring Field Trip – Come join the American Royal at our largest educational activity. As Royal Scholars you will assist in welcoming KC metro area students to a morning full of discovery about food and agriculture. Later Scholars will watch the Youth Rodeo and then interact with Kansas City area business leaders through industry visits.
- Arrival Day: Wednesday, April 21, 2027
- Departure Day: Fridau, April 23, 2027
- Present for American Royal Spring Field Trip and Youth Rodeo
- All dates are subject to change
Scholarship Amount
- More information coming soon!