Aug. 13, 2026
Contact: Robert Jones, robertjones@missouri.edu, 660-349-7752
Photo by Abbie Lankitus
The University of Missouri and Missouri 4-H are making it easier for 4-H members to become Tigers through a partnership that guarantees admission for eligible students while strengthening the pipeline of future leaders for the state.
Missouri 4-H students who meet the requirements of the new 4-H Mizzou Ready Direct Admission Pathway will receive guaranteed admission to Mizzou as first-time college students beginning with the Fall 2028 term.
As an MU Extension program, Missouri 4-H has been part of the University of Missouri for more than a century, helping young people develop leadership, responsibility and life skills. The new pathway builds on that longstanding connection by creating a direct route for eligible members to continue their education at Mizzou.
“As Missouri’s flagship, land-grant university, we are proud to train the next generation who will become leaders for Missouri and our state’s most important industry: agriculture,” University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “4-H Mizzou Ready shows our dedication to strengthening rural Missouri and creating more opportunities for talented 4-H students to join our campus community.”
“Missouri 4-H has been preparing young people with the skills and experiences that help them succeed in college and beyond for generations,” said Chad Higgins, vice chancellor for MU Extension and Engagement and chief engagement officer for the UM System. “Through this partnership, we are recognizing that preparation by creating a clear pathway for outstanding 4-H members to continue their education at Mizzou.”
Eligible students will demonstrate the academic achievement, leadership and community engagement that have long defined Missouri 4-H, including:
- Strong academic performance and coursework in high school
- Leadership and mentorship through 4-H activities and service
- Broader engagement, such as advanced leadership programs or a community-impact capstone project
Students who meet the requirements will be invited to declare their intent to enroll at Mizzou, eliminating the need to complete a traditional application or pay an application fee.
“Through initiatives like 4-H Mizzou Ready, we are investing in Missouri students and building a stronger future for our state,” said Steve Robinson, vice provost for enrollment management. “Students who develop leadership, responsibility and a commitment to their communities are well prepared to succeed at Mizzou and beyond. This pathway recognizes that potential and gives those students a clear, accessible way to continue their education in Missouri.”
Recipients of the National 4-H Youth in Action Award who meet academic criteria will automatically qualify for guaranteed admission.
“This program celebrates the leadership and initiative of Missouri’s 4-H youth,” said Tim Tanner, director of Missouri 4-H. “Our members learn to lead, solve problems and strengthen their communities. Those are exactly the qualities that help students thrive at the University of Missouri.”
Students eligible for the 4-H Mizzou Ready Direct Admission Pathway will begin receiving information during their junior year with instructions on how to confirm their intent to enroll and submit their high school transcript.
More information about the 4-H Mizzou Ready Direct Admission Pathway is available on the Mizzou Admissions website.
