ICAFS Student Training Opportunity and Project (TOP) Grant, USA

The ICAFS (Idaho Chapter of the American Fisheries Society) Student Training Opportunity and Project (TOP) Grant is a unique, flexible funding opportunity for Idaho students passionate about fish and aquatic sciences. First awarded in 2007, this grant continues the Idaho Chapter's legacy of developing the next generation of fisheries professionals. Whether you are a high school student exploring marine biology or a college student conducting research, the TOP Grant can help turn your project into reality.

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

Scholarship at a Glance

Grant Name: ICAFS Student Training Opportunity and Project (TOP) Grant
Amount Range: $50 to $1,000
Degree Level: High school and undergraduate (college) students
Subjects: Fish and aquatic sciences, fisheries management, aquatic biology, conservation, environmental science, and related fields
Nationality: Not explicitly restricted (must be enrolled at a school in Idaho)
State Eligibility: Idaho only (must be enrolled at any school in Idaho)
Deadline: Applications accepted year-round (next annual deadline listed as January 31, 2027, but you can apply anytime)
Awards Available: Varies annually
First Awarded: 2007

Degree Level

High school students (enrolled at any Idaho high school)
College students (undergraduate – associate or bachelor's degree programs)
Note: Graduate students are not explicitly mentioned; contact the committee to confirm.

Available Subjects

The grant supports activities aligned with the Idaho Chapter's mission, including:

Research projects in fish and aquatic sciences
Educational projects (e.g., school or community-based aquatic education)
Professional training and workshops
Conference attendance (fisheries or aquatic science conferences)
Fieldwork, sampling, or data collection
Conservation or restoration projects

Benefits

Funding Range: $50 to $1,000 (amount depends on the proposed activity and available funds)
Flexible Use: Supports research, education, training, workshops, or conference attendance
Year-Round Applications: No strict deadline – apply when you are ready
Professional Development: Gain hands-on experience in fisheries and aquatic science
Legacy Support: Part of a long-standing Idaho Chapter initiative since 2007

Eligible Nationalities

State Requirement (Critical): You must be enrolled at any school located in Idaho – public, private, homeschool, or online school based in Idaho.
Citizenship: Not specified. International students enrolled at an Idaho school are encouraged to contact the committee at scholarshipsandgrants@idahoafs.org to confirm eligibility.
Age: Not specified (high school and college students of any age are eligible).

Eligibility Criteria

Current School Level: High school or college student
Enrollment Location: Must be enrolled at a school in Idaho (any type of school)
Activity Alignment: Proposed project, training, or activity must align with the Idaho Chapter's mission (fish and aquatic professionals development)
Proposal Required: Must submit a written proposal describing the activity

Application Procedure

The application process is straightforward and open year-round. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Develop a Proposal

Write a clear proposal describing the project, training, workshop, or activity you need funding for. Include:

What you plan to do
How it relates to fish or aquatic sciences
How the grant money will be used
Expected outcomes or learning goals

Step 2: Confirm Mission Alignment

Ensure your proposed activity aligns with the Idaho Chapter of the American Fisheries Society's mission – which focuses on fostering the development of fish and aquatic professionals.

Step 3: Complete the Grant Application

Contact the committee to request the official application form (or download it from the ICAFS website if available). You will likely need to provide:

Personal and school information
Proposal summary
Budget breakdown
Mentor or teacher recommendation (optional but helpful)

Step 4: Submit Your Application

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

Important Notes:

Applications are accepted year-round – no need to wait for a specific deadline.
Grant amounts range from $50 to $1,000 depending on the project scope and available funds.
You will be notified after the committee reviews your proposal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a homeschool student in Idaho apply for the TOP Grant?

Yes. The eligibility criteria state "enrolled at any school in Idaho," which typically includes homeschool programs registered in Idaho. However, you may need to provide proof of enrollment or a letter from your homeschool oversight organization. Contact scholarshipsandgrants@idahoafs.org to confirm specific documentation requirements.

What types of activities are NOT eligible for funding?

While the grant is flexible, activities that do not align with the Idaho Chapter's mission (fish and aquatic professional development) are unlikely to be funded. Examples of ineligible activities likely include:

Non-aquatic biology projects (e.g., terrestrial mammal studies)
General academic tuition or living expenses (not project-specific)
Activities outside Idaho (unless clearly tied to an Idaho-based student's professional development – confirm with committee)
Projects with no educational or professional training component

Can I apply for the TOP Grant more than once?

The scholarship description does not explicitly limit repeat applications. Since the grant is awarded annually and supports new projects or training opportunities, you may be able to apply once per academic year or per distinct project. Check with the committee at scholarshipsandgrants@idahoafs.org for their specific policy on multiple awards.