ACFEF Fall 2026 Culinary Scholarships
Offered by American Culinary Federation Education Foundation
About this scholarship
The American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Fall 2026 Scholarships support exemplary students preparing for culinary, pastry, or foodservice careers. Awards are available at three training levels: up to $1,500 for an apprenticeship program, up to $1,500 for a certificate program, and up to $2,500 for a postsecondary degree program. Applicants must hold at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA and be accepted to an accredited institution in a culinary, pastry, or foodservice-related major. The live Fall 2026 Jotform closes October 31. Selection uses a point system. Academic GPA can earn up to 15 points, and the form also awards points for recent culinary competitions, culinary volunteer service, and involvement with the American Culinary Federation or an ACFEF-recognized program. ACF membership is not listed as a basic eligibility requirement, but verified membership can strengthen the score. Applicants upload a current transcript. Optional scoring evidence can include a certificate or organizer letter for one qualifying competition held within the past 12 months, letters documenting culinary volunteer activities, and records of eligible ACF chapter or national participation. The application also requires three short essays of 50 to 200 words each covering culinary passion and career choice, short- and long-term goals, and demonstrated leadership in school, work, or the community. Applicants are normally notified by email within 30 business days after the deadline and may reapply when future support is needed.
Eligibility
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75
- Be accepted to an accredited institution offering the applicant’s program
- Pursue a culinary, pastry, or foodservice-related apprenticeship, certificate, or postsecondary degree
- Upload a current academic transcript through the official form
- Write 3 application essays of 50 to 200 words each about culinary passion, career goals, and leadership
- Upload any claimed competition, culinary volunteer, ACF, or ACFEF-program documentation needed for scoring
- Complete the official Fall 2026 Jotform by October 31, 2026