Student Programs

WFO Student Programs support and inspire young field ornithologists to deepen their knowledge, appreciation, and protection of birds and their habitats.

Join Now - Only $25/year

Student Memberships

Student members receive:

Digital access to Western Birds

WFO newsletters

Discounted registration for events

Access to scholarships and student programs

Student membership is $25/year. Students with financial hardship may request a free introductory membership.

Become a Student Member

What We Offer Students

WFO’s annual multi-day conference is a cornerstone of the student experience. Student attendees gain access to:

Scientific presentations by professionals and student peers

Guided field trips to explore diverse bird habitats

Workshops on bird ID, career options, field skills, and publishing

Bird and sound ID quizzes

Student social events and meetups

Mentorship with ornithologists and field trip leaders

Conference dinner and keynote speaker

Additional student programming includes:

A student-only field trip

A student reception

Scholarships & Travel Grants

WFO is pleased to offer scholarship opportunities for students and early professionals to attend WFO's 50th Annual Conference in beautiful Ashland, Oregon, September 17-20, 2026.

Thanks to generous donors, these scholarships offer invaluable opportunities for students and early professionals to connect with ornithologists and scientists, explore research projects, connect with mentors, and network with fellow students. This year, WFO is excited to offer travel grants for early professionals and graduate students to attend the conference.

Conference Scholarships: Students (Ages 12 and Up)

The WFO Student Programs Committee is offering up to seven scholarships for students ages 12 and up to attend the 2026 Annual Conference. Scholarship includes up to four nights lodging at designated conference hotel, conference registration and activities, and one-year WFO student membership.

📅 Applications are now closed: Please check back in early 2027.

Conference Scholarships: Students and Young Professionals from Mexico

The WFO Student Programs Committee is giving up to three scholarships for students and young professionals from Mexico to attend the 2026 Annual Conference. Preference will be given to applicants presenting original research.

The scholarship includes most expenses and fees associated with the annual conference, including registration fees, most field trips, workshops, receptions/gatherings, transportation up to $600, up to four nights of hotel accommodations in Ashland, Oregon, and one-year WFO student membership.

📅 Applications are now closed: Please check back in early 2027.

New for 2026: Early Professionals & Graduate Student Conference Travel Grant

WFO is pleased to introduce a new Early Professionals and Graduate Student Conference Travel Grant for 2026.

The four grants support early-career ornithologists and bird conservationists ages 20–40 by providing travel assistance and complimentary conference registration, as well as a one-year WFO student membership, enabling broader participation in the exchange of knowledge at our annual meeting.

📅 Applications are now closed: Please check back in early 2027.

Research Grants

WFO offers research grants for graduate and undergraduate students conducting bird-related fieldwork. These grants support WFO’s mission to promote the study and conservation of birds across western North America.

📅 Applications are now closed: Please check back in early 2027.