Knowledge is growth. Growth breeds success.

The James Beard Foundation Scholarship program helps aspiring culinary students realize their dreams by supporting them on a path to success in the rewarding world of the hospitality industry. Professional grants enable those already working in the industry to gain experience and hone their skills.

Click here for information and applications for the 2010 Scholarship and Grant Program >>>

Our Scholarship Program is one of our educational pillars, essential to the fulfillment of our mission to celebrate, preserve, and nurture America’s culinary heritage and diversity in order to elevate the appreciation of our culinary excellence.

Since 2006, the James Beard Foundation has been assisted in the administration of its scholarship program by the Scholarship Management Services division of Scholarship America, a well-respected nonprofit organization that has helped award scholarships to over one million students.

Scholarships awarded by the James Beard Foundation vary from year to year, depending on the donors. Information about the program is posted annually on April 1 on this website. Applications must be postmarked by May 16, 2011 for scholarships and by June 15, 2011 for professional grants.

Applications for James Beard Foundation Scholarships are received and evaluated by Scholarship America. Each student is rated according to a standardized system based on such factors as grade point average, extracurricular activities including work experience, letters of recommendation, and financial need. From the approximately 650 applications received, about 125 well-rounded students with a strong commitment to the culinary arts are identified as finalists.

The applicationsof the finalists are then submitted to the James Beard Foundation’s Scholarship Selection Committee for final review. The committee members are:

Susan Ungaro, President of the James Beard Foundation
Christopher Papagni, Dean of the French Culinary Institute
Lynda Dias, Professor in the Hospitality Management Department of the New York City College of Technology
Ron Gumbaz, long time supporter of the James Beard Foundation

In 2009 the James Beard Foundation awarded a total of $216,865 in scholarships based on the selections of our committee. The Foundation awarded 34 cash scholarships totaling $112,765 via Scholarship America. In addition, 24 students received tuition waivers donated by schools and universities around the world valued at more than $96,100. $8,000 in professional grants was also awarded.

The deadline for 2010 scholarship applications is May 15, 2010. Once again, both cash awards and tuition waivers are available. Culinary professionals (including students and career changers) are encouraged to read he program materials carefully and apply to the programs tha best fit their needs.

Click here to see a list of 2009 JBF Scholarship recipients >>>