Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program
The Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program is an initiative designed to support outstanding students from rural communities across Texas. Beginning in 2026, the program will award scholarships to exceptional 4‑H and/or FFA members who demonstrate strong academic promise, leadership, and financial need, as determined by eligibility for a Federal Pell Grant.
Applications
Applicants must choose between the 4-Year Scholarship or Vocational Scholarship.
4-Year Scholarship Application Coming Soon
View Guidelines »
Vocational Scholarship Application Coming Soon
View Guidelines »
Important Dates
- April 1, 2026 | Online Application Available
- May 1, 2026 | 7:59 PM – Online Application Closes
Please note that the online application deadline falls after business hours, and assistance may be limited at that time. We recommend submitting your application early to ensure a smooth process. - May 8, 2026 | 4:59 PM – School Official and CEA/AST Submission Closes
- Late June 2026 | Recipient selection notification
- July 11, 2026 | Scholarship Recipient Celebration
Scholarship Requirements
Applicants must meet ALL of the following requirements in order to be eligible for a Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program Scholarship.
- Be a U.S. citizen and Texas resident
- Graduating high school senior from a Texas school (Public, Private, Charter, or Homeschooled)
- Live on a family farm/ranch or in a community with a population of 10,000 or fewer per the latest available census data
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid available December and be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant
- Plan to attend an accredited, not-for-profit university in the State of Texas (4-Year) or Accredited Texas Trade School or 2-Year College (Vocational)
- Have met minimum GPA requirement at the conclusion of the Fall 2025 semester
Questions?
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Educational Programs Office
NRG Center
3 NRG Park
Houston, Texas 77054
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 832.667.1286