Applications Open for the 2027 University of Illinois Scholarship $15,000 Bursary
“It challenged me, pushed me outside my comfort zone, introduced me to lifelong friends and mentors and allowed me to see the livestock industry on a global scale.” – Eden Kaminski
Angus Australia and the Angus Foundation are pleased offer one young Angus Australia member the opportunity to undertake a life-changing semester in the United States while developing their livestock judging skills and expanding their understanding of the global beef industry.
For more than 40 years, the scholarship has provided young Australians with the opportunity to gain international experience, build lifelong industry connections and immerse themselves in one of the world’s most influential livestock industries. Many past recipients have gone on to become leaders across the Australian beef sector, demonstrating the lasting impact of the program.
Supported by the Angus Foundation, the scholarship provides $15,000 towards travel and accommodation expenses while recipients undertake the Spring 2027 semester at the University of Illinois in Champaign, Illinois.
The experience begins with attendance at the renowned National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado, before participants join the University of Illinois livestock judging program and travel extensively throughout the United States, competing at judging contests and visiting leading livestock enterprises.
The scholarship is particularly suited to young people with a passion for livestock evaluation, beef production and continuous learning.
2026 recipient Eden Kaminski recently described the opportunity as one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.
During his semester abroad, Eden travelled extensively throughout the United States, competing at major livestock judging events including the Iowa Beef Expo, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, National Meat Animal Evaluation Contest and All East Livestock Judging Contest. He also visited leading livestock operations including Musgrave Angus, Prairie View Farms, Trademark Genetics and BRC Ranch, gaining valuable insight into breeding programs, production systems and management approaches different to those found in Australia.
Reflecting on the experience, Eden said the scholarship provided far more than just an education.
“It challenged me, pushed me outside my comfort zone, introduced me to lifelong friends and mentors and allowed me to see the livestock industry on a global scale.”
The University of Illinois Scholarship has a proud history within Angus Australia. Since its inception, recipients have included industry leaders such as Jason Strong, former Managing Director of Meat & Livestock Australia, and Gary Edwards, current Director of Cattle Australia. Their success highlights the significant role the scholarship has played in developing future industry leaders
Angus Australia CEO, Scott Wright said the scholarship continues to provide young members with opportunities that can shape their careers for years to come.
“The University of Illinois Scholarship provides an unparalleled opportunity to develop livestock evaluation skills while building international networks and gaining exposure to different production systems. Recipients return with greater confidence, broader industry knowledge and valuable experiences that continue to influence their careers long after they return home.”
Applications for the 2027 University of Illinois Scholarship are now open.
Scholarship Snapshot
Applications Close: 29 July 2026
Scholarship Value: $15,000
Location: University of Illinois, Champaign, Illinois, USA
Duration: Spring Semester 2027 (January to May)
Arrival Date: Recipients must arrive in Champaign by Monday 4th January 2027
Commences: National Western Stock Show, Denver, Colorado
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be aged between 18 and 25 years
- Be a current Angus Australia Youth or Full Member
- Must be enrolled in or have completed a bachelor’s degree, preferably in an animal-science related field
- Must hold an Australian or New Zealand Passport
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to the Angus breed and Australian beef industry
- Have proven experience in livestock judging; preferably also having experience in meat judging.
- Provide a referee from an overjudge
- Demonstrate the ability to travel and live independently overseas
For young Angus members passionate about livestock judging, cattle evaluation and the future of the beef industry, the University of Illinois Scholarship offers an opportunity to develop skills, build networks and gain experience that can influence a lifetime in agriculture.
TO APPLY
CLICK HERE
