The NLBRA is known for a massive scholarship program for its members. NLBRA members have numerous opportunities each year to apply or earn a portion of nearly $90,000 awarded annually. Children as young as 5, yes 5, are already building their college funds. Those funds continue to grow throughout their rodeo career and in some cases NLBRA members have left with tens of thousands of dollars in scholarship funds.
- World Event Scholarships Some of the most well-known scholarship awards are: World Champions ($1,250), Reserve Champions ($850) and Third in the World ($450). These scholarships known as World Event Scholarships were doubled for the 2015 National Little Britches Finals Rodeo and then increased in the fall of 2025. The amounts were increased in 2026.
- World All Around Scholarships: These $1,250 Scholarships are awarded in each division. The Reserve All Around earns a $850 Scholarship. These were increased in the fall of 2025. These amounts were increased in 2026.
- NLBRA - Wrangler Academic & Performance Scholarships: Each year, we are supported by our WRANGLER sponsor through their monetary donation to our Scholarships. High school seniors are encouraged to complete the application, submit transcripts, picture and following some directions. Part of the criteria for these scholarship awards includes academic excellence. The top boy and top girl each receive a $2,000 award and the next four earn $1,000 scholarships. Must be received in the office no later than March 31st, to be eligible.
- Age Out Scholarships: A new scholarship, established in 2014, this scholarship application process must be done and submitted by the appropriate deadlines. A fairly simple process to meet the criteria and when you do it could be worth at least $750 to your scholarship fund. Must be received in the office no later than April 30th, to be eligible. This amounts given for this scholarship was increased in the beginning of 2026.
- Rainwater Kids Memorial Scholarship: The Rainwater Kids Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of their son and daughter. The family has decided to continue awarding four members scholarships valued at $500 each. As with tradition, and at the request of the Rainwater family, two scholarships will be awarded to two young men and two scholarships to young women that are currently a senior in High School or aging out, and have an interest in pursuing their education. Must be received in the office no later than March 31st, to be eligible.
- National Royalty Scholarship: Upon completing a year's service promoting the NLBRA and returning to present the crown to the newly selected representatives, those meeting the established criteria (Queen, Princess and Little Wrangler Princess) earn a scholarship. In 2026, this was increased to $1500.
- Youth Board Officer Scholarship: Youth Board Officers serve the membership by attending and being actively involved at the board meetings. The Youth Board Officers are primarily responsible for the awards including the selection of finals saddle, finals coats options, grand entry themes. Additionally, they represent the Association in their travels and return to host the National Finals Rodeo producing the youth events, such as the dances, which helps the scholarship fund. In 2026, their scholarship was increased to $1000.
- Hope Counts Scholarship: In 2026, the board of directors elected to award two $2500 scholarships to 2 members of any age group. This strives to assist all membership with their educational desires while meeting the Hope Counts direction to always help others. Must be received in the office no later than April 30th, to be eligible.
How to get the scholarship monies you've earned:
- Complete the back of the scholarship certificate and then send it to the NLBRA National Office.
- All scholarship requests are brought to the upcoming Executive Board Meeting and are voted on to be approved.
- Scholarship funds are sent directly to the educational institution listed on the back of the scholarship certificate.
- All monies MUST be requested no later than 2 years after member ages out, or monies will be forfeited.