Section 5: 4-H Eligibility

5.1 Age Requirements:  

Extension is a Division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln cooperating with the Ccounties and the United States Department of Agriculture. The 4-H Youth Development program abides with the nondiscrimination policies of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the United States Department of Agriculture. 

4-H is open to all youth between the ages 5 and 18 (4-H Age), regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, immigration status and marital or family status as determined by the following age criteria: 

  • 4-H Age : The age of the youth before January 1 of the current year. 
  • If your birthday is on January 1, your 4-H age is the age you were on December 31st. 
  • If you turn eight (8) on January 1, your 4-H age is seven (7). 
  • If you turn nine (9) on January 1, your 4-H age is eight (8). 
  • 4-H eligibility is determined based on the 4-H age. (The age of the member on December 31st of the previous year) 
  • The last year of eligibility for participation in the 4-H Clover Kids program is the 4-H age of seven (7). 
  • The first year of eligibility for the regular 4-H program is the 4-H age of eight (8).
  • The last year of eligibility is 4-H age of eighteen (18).
  • Certain programs designed for children with special needs/disabilities may establish age limits outside of those stated above. This decision will be determined locally. 

5.2 Youth with Special Needs/Disabilities:  

4-H programs should be designed to consider the needs of participants with special needs/disabilities. All applications to any program should contain the following statement:

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is committed to providing accommodations necessary to allow individuals with disabilities to function effectively and safely while participating in 4-H events. If you believe you may need accommodation, please contact Faculty/Staff Disability Services at access@unl.edu or call 402-472-3417. 

5.3 Married Youth:  

Married individuals who meet age requirements are eligible to fully participate in the 4-H program and are eligible for all benefits therein.

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  Policy: not negotiable      Guidelines: strongly recommended      Procedure: recommended implementation steps

4-H Policy & Procedures Handbook