University of Idaho Fully Funded Masters Scholarship 2026 in USA | $27,000 Annual Stipend + Accommodation & Tuition
Are you a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Range Management, Agricultural Technology, Geography, Ecology, or any related field? Do you dream of pursuing a fully funded Master’s in the United States while working on cutting-edge research that combines livestock production, environmental conservation, and modern technology?
The University of Idaho is currently accepting applications for a fully funded Master’s Graduate Research Assistantship in Virtual Fencing for Range Cattle (Cattle VF-MS) starting as early as January 2026. This is one of the most attractive fully funded Masters scholarships in USA 2026 for international students – including Nigerians, Ghanaians, Kenyans, South Africans and other Africans – because it covers tuition, provides a generous $27,000 annual stipend, health insurance, and free on-site accommodation in the breathtaking mountains of Idaho.
This is not just a scholarship; it is a paid research position that lets you earn while you learn, gain international experience, build a strong CV with publications and presentations, and position yourself for high-paying jobs or PhD opportunities in sustainable agriculture and rangeland management.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded Graduate Research Assistantship (Masters) |
| Host University | University of Idaho, USA |
| Department | Animal, Veterinary and Food Sciences |
| Research Location | Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension & Education Center (near Salmon, Idaho) |
| Stipend | $27,000 per year |
| Additional Benefits | Full tuition waiver + Health insurance + Free on-site housing |
| Start Date | Flexible: January – April 2026 |
| Duration | 2–2.5 years |
| Eligible Countries | All countries (including Nigeria & other African countries) |
| Application Deadline | Rolling – preference before December 15, 2025 (apply NOW) |
What is the University of Idaho Virtual Fencing Masters Scholarship About?
This fully funded graduate assistantship is funded through a research grant that investigates the use of virtual fencing technology to manage cattle grazing on large, rugged rangelands. Virtual fencing (VF) uses GPS collars that deliver audio cues and mild electric pulses to keep cattle within or outside designated areas – without physical fences.
The project focuses on:
- Containing/excluding cattle from sensitive riparian zones
- Managing grazing in post-wildfire burn areas
- Controlling invasive grasses and weeds
- Measuring cattle behaviour, forage utilization, and vegetation response
You will collect real-world data in the field, analyse it with tools like ArcGIS or onX, work directly with cattle producers, federal land agencies, and other scientists, and publish your findings in peer-reviewed journals.
This is hands-on, multidisciplinary research that combines animal science, range ecology, geospatial technology, wildlife management, rural economics, and sociology – perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to solve real environmental challenges.
The position is based at the beautiful Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension and Education Center (NMCREEC), a 1,000+ acre University of Idaho facility located 16 miles from Salmon, Idaho, in the stunning Salmon River valley surrounded by mountains. You will live on-site (free dormitory-style housing with private bedroom), work with a team of graduate students and technicians, and still complete your coursework online/remote coursework from the main campus in Moscow, Idaho.
We encourage you to Join us on our different channels if you want to be the first to learn about immigration and scholarship opportunities.
- Whatsapp: Naijonline Scholarship Updates
- Facebook: Naijonline Scholarship Updates
- Twitter: Naijonline Scholarship Updates
Who Can Apply? Eligibility & Requirements
You are eligible if you:
- Will complete your Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Rangeland Management, Agricultural Science, Geography, Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Agricultural Engineering, or related fields by the start date.
- Have strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Possess a valid driver’s license and are willing to work in remote, rugged terrain in all weather conditions.
- Are passionate about livestock production and sustainable rangeland management.
Highly Preferred Experience (Not Mandatory):
- Vegetation monitoring or livestock handling
- Agricultural technologies (drones, GPS collars, etc.)
- GIS mapping (ArcGIS, onX, QGIS)
- ATV/UTV operation, horse riding, trailer towing
- Living/working in rural or ranching environments
- Previous publications or conference presentations
International students are 100% welcome – the University of Idaho regularly admits qualified candidates from Africa, Asia, and other regions.
Scholarship Benefits – Why This is One of the Best Fully Funded Masters in USA 2026
- $27,000 annual stipend (≈ ₦45–48 million at current rates – enough for comfortable living + sending money home)
- Full tuition and fees covered
- Health insurance included
- Free housing at the research centre (private room + shared common areas)
- Travel funding to present at conferences
- Publication and grant-writing experience
- Networking with producers, agencies, and scientists across the USA
Living costs in Salmon, Idaho are very low compared to California or New York – you will actually save money while studying.
Required Documents
- Cover letter (explain your interest and fit)
- Detailed Resume/CV
- Contact details of at least 3 references (academic or professional)
Optional but helpful: Unofficial transcripts, writing samples, publications.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide (2025/2026)
- Prepare your cover letter and CV in PDF format.
- Write a strong cover letter highlighting your rural/agricultural background, any GIS or livestock experience, and why virtual fencing excites you.
- Send everything in one email to: ellison@uidaho.edu
- Subject line MUST be: “Cattle VF-MS”
- Apply immediately – applications are reviewed as received and interviews have already started.
Direct Application Link/Email: ellison@uidaho.edu (use subject “Cattle VF-MS”)
Why Nigerian & African Students Should Grab This Opportunity
Many Naija animal science, agriculture, and geography graduates are already excelling in US universities. This particular scholarship is extra special because:
- The research is directly applicable to Nigeria’s growing beef industry and issues like farmer-herder conflicts, overgrazing, desertification.
- You return with cutting-edge knowledge in virtual fencing technology that barely exists in Africa yet.
- Idaho’s low cost of living + $27k stipend = real financial freedom.
- High chance of F-1 visa approval because it is a paid assistantship (strong ties + funding proof).
Combine this with other top USA opportunities we have shared:
→ University of Michigan Scholarships 2026: Fully Funded USA Opportunities → Virginia Tech University Full Scholarships 2026 – $34,000 Stipend → Top 10 Fully Funded USA Embassy Scholarships for International Students
Tips for a Winning Application from NaijOnline
- In your cover letter, mention any farm/ranch experience you have back home – even helping on family farmland counts!
- If you have used QGIS, Google Earth Engine, or done any vegetation survey, highlight it boldly.
- Show genuine passion for sustainable livestock production in Africa or globally.
- Get one strong reference letter from a lecturer who knows your fieldwork ability.
- Apply early – before December 1, 2025 to be safe.
This University of Idaho Masters Scholarship 2026 is one of the few remaining fully funded opportunities that still has rolling admission. Do not sleep on it.
Save this page, prepare your documents today, and send that email.
Good luck! The mountains of Idaho are calling, and your name might be on that roster!
