How much are the scholarships?
The scholarships range from $2,500 – $7,000. Below is the breakdown.
- 1st Place $7,000
- 2nd Place $5,000
- 3rd Place $3,500
- 4th Place $3,000
- 5th Place $2,500
What are the criteria for the scholarship?
The applicant must be enrolled full-time or part-time as an undergraduate student at an accredited academic institution for each term of the academic year. Part-time enrollment can be any number of credit hours below full-time enrollment and above zero. Enrollment must be verified with the academic institution. All students must complete the scholarship application by June 30, 2025.
Am I still eligible to receive a scholarship if I am not graduating this year?
Yes, underclassmen are still eligible for the scholarship if they fill out the scholarship application by June 30, 2025. The scholarships will be held through high school and for one academic year after high school graduation. The Foundation will contact the students when they are eligible, and they will submit a scholarship payment form to have the funds sent directly to the school.
What if I take a gap year? What happens to my scholarship?
The scholarships will be held for one academic year after the student’s high school graduation.
How do I claim my scholarship?
Students fill out a brief application and their school completes a scholarship payment form.
Is there a deadline to complete the forms?
Yes! All seniors and underclassmen must fill out the application no later than June 30, 2025.
Do I have to be enrolled in culinary school and pursuing a degree in the restaurant and hospitality industry?
No. This scholarship can be used at any accredited college or university and students can be majoring in any field. This scholarship is not limited to culinary and hospitality.
What can my scholarship funds be used for?
Scholarships are awarded annually and split between the Fall and Spring semesters. Award money may be used for tuition and fees, books, room and board (on or off campus), transportation costs, meal plan costs, or any other school-related expenses (e.g., uniforms, knife kits, supplies, etc.).
How are scholarships paid out?
All funds are paid directly to your college/university once the necessary scholarship payment forms are complete. Scholarships are paid in full to the school and the school divides it equally between the first semester and the second semester. Please allow four to six weeks from when you officially claimed your scholarship for your school to receive the funds. Scholarship funds are valid for one year and are non-transferrable unless approved by the NRAEF.
Where can I find the NRAEF Scholarship Terms and Conditions?
For specifics on fund usage, distribution of funds, enrollment, and other eligibility questions, click here for a full list of our Terms and Conditions.