Each year, the NRAEF awards more than $1 million in scholarships to individuals pursuing a post-secondary degree in the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industry.
Since the program’s inception in 1987, the Foundation has awarded more than $27 million in scholarships and grants to over 6,000 students and food service educators pursuing restaurant-related degrees and professional training through its scholarships and grants programs. The Foundation also provides grants for educators and for individuals seeking industry certifications to advance their careers.
Save the date! Applications for 2026-27 scholarships open on January 15, 2026.
Scholarship Timeline
- January 15: Scholarship Application Opens
- March 15: Application Closes
- April – May: Scholarship Application Review
- June: Scholarship Award Notifications
- July – August: Scholarship Claiming and Payments
- August 15: Deadline to Claim Scholarship
Scholarship Resources
Other Scholarships on the Web
State Restaurant Associations award additional scholarships for your college expenses.
Scholarship Search Engines and Tools
Learn about other available tools to help you plan for education finances
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