Lata Sharma Graduate Award in Agriculture

What you will need

• ✓ Reference letter from your research supervisor (maximum one page in length) attesting to the impact of your research
• ✓ Evidence of research productivity (at least one refereed publication or conference presentation)
• ✓ One-page outline of your thesis or project topic or area of major research
• ✓ Complete list of your publications, conferences, and poster presentations
• ✓ Name and email address of your research supervisor
• ✓ Answers to the supplemental questions in the awards portal

About this award

You can receive approximately $3,000. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are a graduate researcher dedicated to improving environmental preservation and fighting climate change through soil health and regenerative agriculture. You must apply by November 2, 2026. When you apply, ask University of Saskatchewan how and when you'll hear back — whether it is by email, the portal, or phone. Ask University of Saskatchewan how many students usually apply, so you can judge your odds. Ask University of Saskatchewan during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with University of Saskatchewan whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

You must be a continuing graduate student in a program focused on soil health and/or regenerative agriculture with a minimum GPA of 80%. You qualify if you are a Master’s student (either thesis or project-based) within the first 24 months of your program, or a PhD student within the first 48 months of your program. A priority is given to students pursuing an MSc (Master of Science — a research-focused graduate degree) or PhD on soil health and/or regenerative agriculture.

This is what the award's official page said when we last checked. Rules change, so confirm on the award's official page before you apply.

• ✓ Open to graduate students
• ✓ Studying regenerative agriculture or soil health sciences

How to apply

1. 1

   Read the award's official page

   Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.

2. 2

   Ask for reference letters2 weeks

   Give your referees at least two weeks' notice, and send them your résumé.

3. 3

   Submit your application

   Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

Tips for applying

• Research StatementAvoid writing a generic overview of your field. Instead, provide a precise one-page outline of your specific thesis or project topic. Focus on the unique area of major research you intend to pursue.
• ReferencesAvoid waiting until the last minute to notify your supervisor. Instead, ensure they have your correct email and know the deadline immediately. Since the system emails them automatically, you are responsible for making sure they submit their part on time.
• StrategyAvoid omitting smaller academic achievements. Instead, list every publication, conference, and poster presentation you have contributed to. Use the "Add Another Answer" link in the portal to ensure your full productivity is visible.
• RealismAvoid applying if you do not have a refereed publication or conference presentation. Instead, focus on building your research profile first. This award strictly requires at least one such piece of evidence to be eligible.

Questions students ask

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