James Beard Foundation Scholarship Accepting Applications for 2021-2022

COVID-19 continues to challenge the resiliency of many industries, especially the food industry, and culinary schools and students have had to adapt to an unconventional academic landscape. In ongoing support of aspiring and established culinary professionals, the James Beard Foundation announced this week the launch of its 2021-2022 Scholarship Program which will award nearly $321,000, according to a recent press release.

The James Beard Foundation promotes good food for good and highlights the centrality of food culture in our daily lives. Through the variety of industry programs that educate and empower leaders, the Foundation is committed to giving chefs a voice and the tools they need to make the world more sustainable, equitable, and delicious for all.

In the past 30 years, the Scholarship Program has not only grown in visibility and financial scope but in the array of subjects its recipients have embraced. As of 2020, the Foundation has awarded over $8.5 million in financial aid to over 2,000 recipients.

While award amounts range from $2,000 – $11,000 and eligibility requirements vary by opportunity, in general, applicants must be enrolled or planning to enroll in a culinary program at a licensed or accredited culinary school, hospitality institution, college, or university in Fall 2021. International students may qualify for many of the scholarships and are encouraged to apply. This year also marks the return of the Foundation’s National Scholars Scholarship, which offers up to 12 awards of $20,000 each per designated region.

“We’re proud to support the next generation of culinary talent through our scholarships, tuition waivers, and grants again this year,” said Clare Reichenbach, James Beard Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer. “As we work to build back a stronger, more equitable, and more resilient restaurant industry, providing funding for education and career advancement opportunities for those who need it most is more important than ever.”

The scholarship program is administered by International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTS), an independent company that specializes in managing sponsored educational assistance programs. ISTS hosts the online application process, selects and disburses awards to recipients.

For more information about the program and to begin the application process, visit jamesbeard.org/scholarships. The deadline to apply is April 1, 2021.