Master Gardener Class of 2027 Training Application

Master Gardener Training Class

Are you passionate about gardening, education, and community service? We’re excited you’re considering applying to become an Extension Master Gardener!  The information provided below will aid you in your application process.

How to Apply

Our application process includes:

✅  Step 1: Download and save the application resources below

✅  Step 2: Submit an online application form starting November 1, 2026, after 9 am through Better Impact. (Portal link below)

✅  Step 3: Request that two non-family members send reference forms directly from their email accounts to [email protected]

✅  Step 4: Attend a face-to-face interview in late January, where you pay the $250 class fee

✅  Step 5: Complete a volunteer background check initiated by Virginia Tech.

Download the Application Resources

Download and save the following documents to your device (click on each document link to download).  Take time to read through each file. Understanding the process and requirements ahead of time will help you submit a strong application.

• Better Impact Application Tip Sheet
  A helpful guide with screenshots and tips to make your online application process smooth and stress-free.

• FAQ About Master Gardener Training
  Answers to common questions about the program, application requirements, and what to expect.

• MG Reference Questionnaire
  A fillable PDF that your two non-family references will complete and email directly to our Training Team at [email protected].

• Better Impact Application Information Worksheet (Optional)
  A printable worksheet listing all the fields from the online application form. Use it to gather and organize your information before the portal opens. This will make submitting your application faster and easier once the portal opens.
  

  Master Gardeners at the Williamsburg Farmers Market

Submitting Your Application

The Better Impact Application portal will open on Sunday, November 1.  The link below will take you to the Better Impact Application Portal to complete and submit your Online Application form. Fill out the online application using your worksheet noted in the Application Resources section above and submit your information.

You must complete your application in one sitting—there is no "Save and Return" feature.  If you exit before finishing, you’ll need to start over.  Be sure to record your username and password for future use.  You'll use Better Impact throughout your Master Gardener training experience.

Application Portal
(Portal active November 1st)

Send Out Your Two Reference Questionnaires

Email the Reference Questionnaire form to two people who are neither family members nor your spouse and can speak to your qualifications and community involvement.  Ask them to complete and return the form directly to [email protected] from their email address. While completed reference sheets are not required to submit your application form, they must be received before your application package can be considered complete. The sooner we receive your reference forms, the sooner we can process your application.

What Happens After Your Application is Submitted

After your application package (form + two references) is complete, you will be notified that you have a reserved spot in our training class or a place on our waiting list, once class capacity has been reached.  We will send notifications during November.

We will schedule a face-to-face interview with you in late January.  At the interview, you will meet members of the training team and pay your class tuition of $250.

Following the interview, our Extension Agent will complete the VCE-required volunteer background check.  Once it is complete, we will notify you of your final acceptance as a trainee in the class of 2027.

 

Contact Us:

If you have questions about the application process or becoming a Master Gardener, email us at: [email protected].

"Neighbors Helping Neighbors Grow"

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