- ~10 awardsNumber of Awards
- ~USD 1,500Award Value
- UndergraduateStudy Level
- United StatesTenable Country
- Founded 1989Program Start Year
- Agriculture, CommunicationsKey Disciplines
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Jan 1, 2027
Deadline
United States
Country
CME Group
Provider
The CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship, sponsored by CME Group and administered through the National Cattlemen’s Foundation, encourages and supports students pursuing careers within the beef industry in the United States. Established in 1989, this annual scholarship program recognizes talented individuals who are poised to contribute significantly to the future of food production. Each year, 10 scholarships of $1,500 each are awarded to eligible students, fostering the next generation of leaders in cattle production and related fields. Students studying diverse areas such as education, communication, production, and research that relate to the beef industry are encouraged to apply. The program seeks to identify and invest in individuals who can bring innovation and resilience to the sector, ensuring its long-term viability and ability to meet global food demands. The scholarship is a collaborative effort involving CME Group, the National Cattlemen’s Foundation, and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Recipients are typically recognized at CattleCon, a major industry event, providing valuable networking opportunities. The National Cattlemen’s Foundation, organized in 1972, plays a crucial role in providing charitable, scientific, and educational activities benefiting the cattle industry. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Educational Expenses — A scholarship award of ~USD 1,500 (est.) directly supports students' academic pursuits.
- Tuition Fees — Can be used towards tuition at a two- or four-year institution.
- Books and Supplies — Helps cover the cost of required textbooks and other educational materials.
- Living Expenses — May contribute to daily living costs associated with full-time study.
- Career Development — Supports students committed to careers in the beef industry, fostering their professional growth.
How to apply
The application process for the CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship requires careful preparation and submission of several key documents by the specified deadline.
- Visit the Official Website — Access the National Cattlemen’s Foundation website at www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org for detailed instructions and the application portal.
- Prepare a Career Goals Letter — Write a one-page letter clearly expressing your career goals and how they relate to the beef industry.
- Compose an Essay — Draft a 750-word essay that describes a current issue within the beef industry and proposes viable solutions to address it.
- Obtain Letters of Recommendation — Secure two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your character, academic abilities, and interest in the beef industry.
- Confirm NCBA Membership — Ensure that you or a family member holds a current membership with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
- Submit Application — Complete and submit all required application materials through the designated portal on the National Cattlemen’s Foundation website by the deadline.
Eligibility
NationalityNot explicitly stated, but implies US residency as the program is US-focused and administered by US organizations.
Study LevelGraduating high school senior or full-time undergraduate student enrolled at a two- or four-year institution.
Academic StandingMust be enrolled or planning to enroll in a program related to the beef industry.
MembershipApplicant or a family member must be a member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA).
Career GoalsDemonstrate career goals related to the beef industry.
Candidates should be passionate about the beef industry and capable of articulating their interest and proposed solutions to industry challenges. Membership in NCBA is a firm requirement for either the applicant or a direct family member.
Eligible countries
United States
Deadlines
Annual (2026/2027)2026-10-09
Selection
Recipients for the CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship are selected based on their application materials, which include a letter outlining career goals, an essay addressing a beef industry issue with proposed solutions, and two letters of recommendation. The selection committee evaluates applicants' demonstrated commitment to the beef industry and their potential to contribute to its future. Membership in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, either by the applicant or a family member, is a prerequisite for consideration.
Verified sources
- National Cattlemen’s Foundation - Beef Industry Scholarshipnationalcattlemensfoundation.orgofficial
- Applications open for CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship | The Mighty 790 KFGOkfgo.comannouncement
About the provider
CME Group is a leading financial marketplace that enables participants to trade futures and options across all major asset classes. They play a significant role in agricultural markets. The National Cattlemen's Foundation, organized in 1972, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting the cattle industry through charitable, scientific, and educational initiatives.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship?
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It is an annual scholarship program sponsored by CME Group and administered by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation, designed to support students pursuing careers in the beef industry.
What does the scholarship cover?
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The scholarship provides financial assistance that can be used for educational expenses, including tuition, books, and other costs associated with full-time study at a two- or four-year institution.
What is the value of the award?
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Each scholarship award is ~USD 1,500. A total of ~10 scholarships are awarded annually.
Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
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Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors and full-time undergraduate students enrolled at a two- or four-year institution, with career goals related to the beef industry.
Are international students eligible to apply?
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While not explicitly stated, the program is US-focused and requires membership in a US-based association, implying eligibility is primarily for students in the United States.
Which study levels are covered by this scholarship?
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The scholarship is open to high school seniors planning to attend college and current undergraduate students enrolled in a two- or four-year degree program.
What is the application deadline for the next cycle?
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The application deadline for the 2026/2027 cycle is October 9, 2026.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
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To apply, you need to submit a one-page letter of career goals, a 750-word essay on a beef industry issue with solutions, and two letters of recommendation. Applications are submitted via the National Cattlemen’s Foundation website.
What documents are required for the application?
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Required documents include a career goals letter, an essay on a beef industry issue, two letters of recommendation, and proof of NCBA membership (applicant or family member).
How are scholarship recipients selected?
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Recipients are selected based on the quality of their application materials, including their essay and letters, demonstrating their commitment and potential contributions to the beef industry.
What is the duration of the scholarship and is it renewable?
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The scholarship is a one-time award of $1,500. The page text does not indicate that it is renewable.
Where can I find more information and confirm current details?
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For more information and to confirm current-cycle details, please visit the official National Cattlemen’s Foundation website at www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org.