The Built Ford Tough Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious education funding opportunity for students pursuing careers in agriculture and related fields across the United States. Supported by Ford Motor Company, participating Ford Dealers, and administered by the National FFA Foundation, the scholarship aims to encourage future leaders in agriculture, technical education, and skilled career pathways.

Since its establishment, the program has provided millions of dollars in financial support to students preparing for careers that strengthen the agricultural industry. Through the 2026 scholarship cycle, 338 students will receive awards of $1,000 each to help cover educational expenses.

Students only need to complete one National FFA Scholarship Application to be considered for multiple scholarship opportunities, with total available awards reaching nearly $2.5 million.

Scholarship Overview

Degree Programs Supported

The Built Ford Tough Scholarship supports students enrolled in different educational pathways, allowing applicants to choose programs that match their career goals.

Eligible programs include:

• Trade school programs
• Vocational and technical certification programs
• Associate degree programs (2-year colleges)
• Bachelor’s degree programs (4-year universities)

This makes the scholarship suitable for students pursuing both traditional university education and career-focused technical training.

Eligible Fields of Study

Although students from all academic backgrounds may apply, preference is given to applicants studying agriculture and related disciplines.

Priority fields include:

• Agricultural education
• Agribusiness
• Agricultural mechanics
• Animal science
• Plant science
• Agriculture-related career programs

The scholarship supports students preparing for careers in farming, agricultural technology, business, research, and other essential sectors.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected recipients of the Built Ford Tough Scholarship 2026 will receive:

• A $1,000 educational award
• Opportunity to be considered for additional National FFA scholarships
• Financial support for tuition, fees, books, and education-related expenses
• Recognition from nationally respected agricultural organizations
• Support for career development in agriculture and technical fields

About the National FFA Scholarship Program

The National FFA Scholarship Program connects students with financial support from corporations, organizations, and individual donors. These scholarships help students continue their education and prepare for professional careers in agriculture and related industries.

Through partnerships with industry leaders, the program contributes to developing skilled professionals who support one of the largest employment sectors in the United States.

Built Ford Tough Scholarship 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a current member of the National FFA Organization
• Must be a U.S. citizen
• Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an eligible postsecondary program

Eligible applicants include:

• High school senior FFA members
• Collegiate FFA members
• FFA alumni currently studying in college

Applicants may enroll in:

• Trade schools
• Vocational programs
• Certification programs
• Two-year colleges
• Four-year universities

Students from all academic majors can apply; however, agriculture-related programs may receive preference during selection.

Additional selection factors may include:

• Academic performance
• Citizenship requirements
• Age eligibility
• Educational level
• Sponsor and organizational selection criteria

A participating Ford Dealer must identify the applicant’s FFA chapter for scholarship eligibility.

How to Apply for the Built Ford Tough Scholarship 2026

Students can apply by following these steps:

1. Confirm that a participating Ford Dealer has identified your FFA chapter.
2. Complete the National FFA Scholarship Application online.
3. Submit all required information before the deadline.
4. Monitor application updates through the FFA scholarship portal.

A single application automatically places eligible students under consideration for multiple National FFA scholarship awards.

Important Dates

Eligible Nationalities

The Built Ford Tough Scholarship 2026 is available exclusively to:

• United States citizens
• Eligible members of the National FFA Organization

International students are not eligible for this scholarship program.