NALP Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by National Association of Landscape Professionals Foundation
Overview
NALP’s Foundation awards scholarships to students enrolled in landscape contracting or horticultural programs at accredited two- and four-year post-secondary institutions. Scholarships are funded by Ambassadors—industry supporters committed to developing the next generation of landscape professionals. Awards are presented annually at the National Collegiate Landscape Competition (NCLC), although recipients are not required to attend in order to receive funds. This program supports both technical training and academic advancement within the landscape industry.
Description: Scholarships support students pursuing careers in landscape contracting and horticulture at U.S. and Canadian institutions.
History of the Award: Funding is provided by Ambassadors and scholarships are distributed each year in conjunction with NCLC.
- Supports two- and four-year landscape and horticulture programs
- Funded by industry Ambassadors
- Awards are associated with the annual NCLC event
How to Apply for a Foundation Scholarship
The application process requires evidence of enrollment and supporting documentation that demonstrates academic standing and professional potential. Applicants must submit reference letters and an official transcript along with identification materials. Requirements are straightforward to allow students to focus on presenting relevant experience and goals. Eligibility is limited to programs located in the United States and Canada.
Eligibility: Must be enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year landscape horticultural program located within the United States or Canada.
Application Requirements: Provide two letters of recommendation, an up-to-date academic transcript, and a recent photo.
- Enrollment in qualifying program required
- Two recommendations and a transcript are mandatory
- Submission of a recent photo is requested
Crafting a Standout Scholarship Application
A competitive application clearly communicates career goals, relevant experience, and demonstrated leadership. Highlight participation in NCLC, other industry events, competitions, and professional development activities. Include volunteer work, club involvement, and any mentorships or initiatives you led. Detail work experience and internships, focusing on responsibilities and skills acquired.
Tips: Emphasize clear goals and career objectives, industry engagement, volunteerism, leadership roles, and relevant work experience or internships.
- State professional and educational goals clearly
- Document participation in competitions and professional events
- Describe leadership roles and community involvement
- List internships and jobs with specific responsibilities and skills gained
Scholarship Recognition and Award Values
Scholarships are awarded in several tiers and recipients are honored in conjunction with NCLC. Major named awards include the President’s Scholarship and various Ambassador-level scholarships, with additional awards for top competitors at NCLC. Recipients need not attend NCLC to receive their scholarship. Award values range from targeted named scholarships to competition-based prizes for high-placing students.
Award Value: President’s Scholarship — $5,000; Platinum Ambassador Scholarships — $2,000+ each; Ambassador Scholarships — $1,000+ each.
Competition Awards: Top-placing students at NCLC receive additional scholarships: First Place — $3,000; Second Place — $2,000; Third Place — $1,000.
- President’s Scholarship is the largest named award ($5,000)
- Platinum and Ambassador Scholarships provide multiple awards at $2,000+ and $1,000+
- NCLC competition winners receive separate monetary awards
- Attendance at NCLC is not required to receive a scholarship