The Trump administration has reinstated the 1890 National Scholars Program, a federal scholarship supporting students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
The move follows widespread criticism over its abrupt suspension last week.
The program, which funds students pursuing degrees in agriculture-related fields, resumed accepting applications on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, as confirmed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The suspension of the program last week sparked backlash from lawmakers, civil rights advocates, and HBCU supporters, many of whom viewed the move as part of the administration’s broader efforts to curtail diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The program is managed by the USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE) and has been in place since 1992 to support students at 19 HBCUs across the country.
A USDA spokesperson explained that the temporary halt was due to an internal review aimed at ensuring “the most efficient use of taxpayer resources.”
The review was reportedly completed by Monday afternoon, allowing the agency to reopen applications the following day. The deadline for submissions is set for March 15, and a USDA webinar is scheduled next Tuesday to assist interested students.
The decision to reinstate the program comes amid mounting pressure from lawmakers who have expressed concerns over the administration’s stance on HBCU funding. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) condemned the initial suspension, emphasizing the need for continued oversight.
“The Trump Administration should never have paused this funding in the first place,” Ossoff told The Hill. “I will continue my oversight to ensure that Georgia HBCU students receive the support Congress directed to them.”
Last year, the program awarded scholarships to 94 students, covering tuition and room and board for those pursuing degrees in agriculture, food, and natural resource sciences. While the USDA has not specified any changes to the program’s structure, it has affirmed its commitment to supporting applicants and scholars throughout their academic journey.
The suspension and reinstatement of the HBCU Scholars Program highlight ongoing tensions between the administration’s policies and federal DEI initiatives.
The legal implications of these policy shifts continue to be a point of contention as lawmakers and advocacy groups monitor federal support for historically Black institutions.
