2026 ACFEF Johnson & Wales University Scholarship
Offered by American Culinary Federation Education Foundation and American Academy of Chefs
About this scholarship
The 2026 ACFEF Johnson & Wales University Scholarship awards two culinary students $2,500 per year for as many as four years, for a potential total value of $10,000 each. Applicants must be high-school seniors graduating in the application year, already accepted to Johnson & Wales University in culinary arts or pastry arts, and pursuing careers as chefs or pastry chefs. The live American Culinary Federation Education Foundation form states that candidates should have and maintain at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA. Selection uses a 100-point rubric. Academic performance accounts for up to 30 points, recent culinary or pastry competition participation up to 20, school or industry volunteer service up to 10, and ACF involvement up to 10. Five written answers of at least 50 words each address leadership, contributions to the culinary industry, professional organizations, community service, and future education. Applicants also upload a current transcript and two references from culinary professionals or educators; documentation can earn points for eligible competitions, volunteer activities, and ACF events from the previous 12 months. Scholarships are not automatically renewed, so recipients who need future funding are encouraged to reapply. The official direct form is open through December 1, 2026.
Eligibility
- Be a high-school senior eligible to graduate in 2026
- Be accepted to Johnson & Wales University in culinary arts or pastry arts
- Plan a career as a chef or pastry chef
- Have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
- Upload a current transcript and two qualifying reference letters
- Complete all five written responses with at least 50 words each
- Submit supporting verification for any competition, volunteer, or ACF points claimed
- Submit the application by December 1, 2026