Scholarship Resources: Culinary Arts Scholarships

The American Culinary Federation Education Foundation, with the support of the American Academy of Chefs (AAC), is pleased to offer scholarships annually to students. Applicants must be an exemplary student with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher, and be currently accepted to an accredited, post-secondary college, with a major in either culinary or pastry arts, or be an ACF registered apprentice.

The James Beard Foundation Scholarship Program assists students from across the food community, including aspiring and established culinary professionals, who plan to further their education at a licensed or accredited culinary school or hospitality institution, college, or university. The program has grown in visibility and financial scope, and in the array of subjects embraced by recipients. As of 2024, the Foundation has awarded nearly $10 million in financial aid to over 2,000 recipients.

To date, Les Dames d'Escoffier has disbursed more than $650,000 through
scholarship endowments at the following schools:
Seattle Central College Culinary Academy.
Washington State University’s Viticulture and Enology Program.
Washington State University’s Hospitality Program (honoring Dame Gretchen Mathers).
Renton Technical College.
South Seattle College Culinary Program (honoring Dame Kathleen Stang).
South Seattle College’s Wine Technology Program.
Washington State University's Organic and Sustainable Agriculture.

The Gayl Bertagni Culinary Arts scholarship was established in 2009 to celebrate the life of Gayl Bertagni. The scholarship covers up to $1,000 for tuition, fees, or books. This scholarship is renewable (if you apply) up to 4 years and still working toward a degree in culinary arts. The application deadline is the first Friday in May OR the first Friday in December. (scroll down for the scholarship information)