Applications are solicited by the Project AgGrad Committee in anticipation of open fellowships. Submitted applications are reviewed and finalists are selected for individual interviews (typically conducted online). Following interviews and review, the AgGrad student is selected. Final acceptance to the program is contingent on admission to the Graduate School at the University of Minnesota. Fellowships are awarded to an individual. There are no provisions for family/dependent support. The Committee works to assist the student in identifying a faculty advisor, finding suitable housing and beginning their studies.
How to apply
When solicited, applicants should obtain the AgGrad Scholarship Application Form (linked here or by request from the Oversight Committee Chair) for completion and submission to the AgGrad Program.
APPLICANTS SHOULD BE:
- A member of The United Methodist Church, a colleague church, or another church of the Christian faith;
- A potential leader, possessing leadership capabilities for work in agriculture and society;
- Able to provide at least ten years of service upon return to their home country (or other country in the developing world);
- A graduate of a college-level degree program (equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s four-year college or an equivalent baccalaureate degree); and
- Willing to assist in promotion of Project AgGrad to local United Methodist Churches in Minnesota by making occasional visits and helping to create promotional materials.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
The complete application consists of the Scholarship Application Form (linked here or by request from the Committee Chair), three letters of recommendation forms, University of Minnesota application, and an Essay/Personal Statement.
TOEFL Scores (TEST OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE) are required by both the Scholarship Program and the University of Minnesota Graduate School. You must achieve a minimum TOEFL Score for acceptance (check here for current TOEFL requirement). Either include the TOEFL Score Report or submit it as soon as possible.
Official transcripts (WITH REGISTRAR’S SEAL) are required and must be sent DIRECTLY to the AgGrad Program.
Project AgGrad Oversight Committee
Eric Forsberg (Chair), Spirit of Hope UMC
Karen Andrew, Hennepin Avenue UMC
Fabian G. Fernandez, Professor, University of Minnesota
Liz Friday, Mound UMC
Lee Johnston, Federated Church
Kent Reed, Professor, University of Minnesota
Guy Sederski Conference Representative
John Turrittin, Spirit of Hope UMC
Project Ag Grad 