ICAFS High School Scholarship, USA

The Idaho Chapter of the American Fisheries Society (ICAFS) High School Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for Idaho high school seniors who are passionate about fish, aquatic ecosystems, and conservation. First awarded in 2007, this scholarship continues the Idaho Chapter's legacy of fostering the next generation of fisheries professionals. If you are an Idaho senior with a 3.0 GPA planning to study fisheries or aquatic sciences at an Idaho college, this scholarship can help kickstart your journey.

Below is everything you need to know about the scholarship, including degree level, subjects, nationality, eligibility, benefits, application process, and frequently asked questions.

Scholarship at a Glance

Scholarship Name: ICAFS High School Scholarship
Amount: $750 (one-time award)
Degree Level: High school senior (undergraduate freshman to be)
Subjects: Fish and aquatic studies, fisheries science, aquatic biology, conservation, environmental science, and related fields
Nationality: Not explicitly restricted (must attend an Idaho high school and plan to attend an Idaho college)
State Eligibility: Idaho only
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Deadline: January 31, 2027
Notification: Winners notified by April 30
First Awarded: 2007

Degree Level

High school senior (or GED equivalent)
Planning to enroll as a freshman at any college or university in Idaho

Available Subjects

Must plan on pursuing degrees in fish and aquatic studies, including but not limited to:

Fisheries Science
Aquatic Biology
Marine Biology (with freshwater focus)
Conservation Biology
Environmental Science
Natural Resource Management
Limnology (study of inland waters)
Wildlife and Fisheries Ecology

Benefits

Cash Award: $750 (one-time, applied toward college expenses)
Professional Recognition: Award from the world's oldest and largest fisheries society (founded 1870)
Legacy Support: Part of a long-standing Idaho Chapter initiative since 2007
Networking: Potential connections with fisheries professionals in Idaho
Resume Booster: Demonstrates commitment to fisheries and aquatic sciences

Eligible Nationalities

High School Location: Must be attending a high school in Idaho (or earning a GED in Idaho)
College Location: Must plan to attend any college or university located in Idaho (e.g., University of Idaho, Boise State University, Idaho State University, College of Idaho, North Idaho College, etc.)
Citizenship: Not specified. International students studying at an Idaho high school and planning to attend an Idaho college should contact the committee at scholarshipsandgrants@idahoafs.org to confirm eligibility.
Age: Not specified (typical high school senior age range).

Eligibility Criteria

Current Year in School: High school senior (or GED equivalent)
State Residency (High School): Attending a high school in Idaho
State Residency (College): Planning to attend any college or university in Idaho
Minimum GPA: 3.0 (unweighted or weighted – confirm with committee)
Intended Major: Must plan to pursue a degree in fish and aquatic studies or a closely related field
Citizenship: Not explicitly restricted (contact committee if international)

Application Procedure

The scholarship committee has not published a detailed online application form in the description. Based on similar scholarships, follow these steps. Always verify with the contact below.

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents (Likely)

Gather the following materials:

High school transcript (showing at least a 3.0 GPA)
Personal statement or essay (250–500 words) explaining:
- Your interest in fish and aquatic sciences
- Your career goals in the field
- Why you plan to attend an Idaho college
Letter of recommendation from a science teacher, counselor, or mentor (preferably in biology or environmental science)
Proof of Idaho college acceptance or application (or a list of Idaho colleges you are applying to)

Step 2: Complete the Application

Request the official application form by emailing:

Email: scholarshipsandgrants@idahoafs.org
Subject line suggestion: "ICAFS High School Scholarship Application Request"

Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline

Deadline: January 31, 2027
Notification: Winners notified by April 30

Step 4: Mail or Email Submission (if required)

Email: scholarshipsandgrants@idahoafs.org
Mail:
- Scholarship Committee
- American Fisheries Society
- 1445 North Orchard
- Boise, ID 83706
Phone (questions only): 208-373-0203

Note: The application process is not fully detailed in the source. Always contact the committee directly for the official application form and instructions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply if I am a homeschool senior in Idaho?

Yes, likely. The scholarship states "high school senior (or GED-equivalent)." Homeschool seniors who are recognized as graduating from an Idaho homeschool program should be eligible. You will need to provide proof of homeschool completion or a transcript showing your coursework and GPA (3.0 or equivalent). Contact scholarshipsandgrants@idahoafs.org for specific documentation requirements.

What if my intended major is environmental science but not specifically "fish and aquatic studies"? Am I still eligible?

Possibly. The scholarship says "plan on pursuing degrees in fish and aquatic studies." However, related fields like Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, or Natural Resource Management often include aquatic components. To be safe:

Clearly explain in your personal statement how your major connects to fisheries or aquatic science (e.g., taking aquatic ecology electives, doing a fisheries internship, or conducting water quality research).
If unsure, email the committee with your specific major and ask if it qualifies.

Can I use the scholarship at any Idaho college, including community colleges?

Yes. The description says "any college or university in Idaho." This includes:

Four-year universities (University of Idaho, Boise State, Idaho State)
Private colleges (College of Idaho, Northwest Nazarene University)
Community colleges (North Idaho College, College of Southern Idaho, College of Western Idaho, etc.)

The key requirement is that you plan to pursue a degree in fish and aquatic studies. Community college students transferring to a four-year fisheries program are encouraged to apply.