Apprentice Ecologist Initiative Scholarship
Offered by Nicodemus Wilderness Project
About this scholarship
The Apprentice Ecologist Initiative Scholarship rewards high school students who turn environmental concern into a completed community project. Applicants first lead or join an environmental stewardship effort, such as restoring wildlife habitat, removing litter or invasive plants, planting native trees, establishing a recycling or composting program, preventing pollution, or educating others about conservation. They then document the work with a project photograph and an essay explaining the location, actions, results, community and environmental benefits, personal growth, and plans inspired by the experience. The Nicodemus Wilderness Project does not impose a formal essay length, although it reports that most past winning essays have been about 750 to 1,500 words. The 2026 competition is open worldwide to high school juniors in the Class of 2027 and seniors in the Class of 2026; seniors may also apply during the summer after graduation. Three authors will share $1,750 in scholarships for tuition and fees at an accredited college or university. Reviewers consider initiative, dedication, leadership, self-growth, accomplishments, and the project’s sustainability. Applicants email the project location, photo, essay, volunteer count, total volunteer hours, personal contact information, and grade level to the address published on the official program page by August 31, 2026.
Eligibility
- Be a high school junior in the Class of 2027 or senior in the Class of 2026
- High school seniors may also apply during the summer immediately after graduation
- Lead or join a completed environmental cleanup, conservation, or stewardship project
- Take and submit a photograph showing the project in action
- Write an essay describing the project, its results, its significance, and your personal growth
- Report the project location, number of volunteers, and total volunteer hours
- Email the complete submission to the address on the official page by August 31, 2026