The NHSBBQA Education Foundation awards scholarships to support students pursuing educational growth, skill development, and workforce readiness through barbecue, culinary arts, agriculture, hospitality, and Career & Technical Education (CTE).
Our application process is designed to be straightforward, equitable, and transparent, with all selections based on objective, nondiscriminatory criteria.
Before applying, students should review the Scholarship Eligibility & Overview page to confirm they meet general eligibility requirements and understand how scholarships may be used.
View Eligibility & Overview
Applicants may be asked to submit the following as part of their application:
Completed scholarship application form
Short written responses or essays
Documentation of educational involvement or coursework
One letter of recommendation from a teacher, advisor, or mentor
Academic or project-based information, when applicable
Specific requirements may vary by scholarship opportunity.
Applications are submitted online through the Foundation’s secure application form.
Applicants should:
Answer all questions honestly and thoroughly
Clearly describe their educational goals and learning experiences
Demonstrate commitment to education, leadership, and personal growth
Incomplete applications may not be reviewed.
Apply for a Scholarship
Scholarships are awarded during scheduled application cycles. Each scholarship opportunity will list:
Application deadline
Award purpose
Any additional requirements
Late applications cannot be accepted.
All applications are reviewed by the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee using a written scoring rubric.
Selections are based on objective criteria, which may include:
Educational effort and achievement
Skill development and craftsmanship
Leadership and character
Community or school involvement
Financial need (when applicable)
Final approval is provided by the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Applicants will be notified of scholarship decisions by email.
Students selected for awards must:
Review and sign a Student Award Acceptance Letter
Agree to the Foundation’s Award Disbursement & Reimbursement Policy
Use scholarship funds only for approved educational purposes
Funds are distributed in accordance with nonprofit best practices and IRS regulations.
Scholarships are educational awards, not cash prizes or competition payouts
Applying does not guarantee selection
Participation in NHSBBQA® programs or competitions is not required unless stated for a specific scholarship
All information submitted must be accurate and complete
Students, parents, and educators with questions about the application process are encouraged to contact the Foundation.
Contact the NHSBBQA Education Foundation
The NHSBBQA Education Foundation is committed to expanding access to meaningful educational opportunities and helping students build pathways to success.
Ready to take the next step?
Apply today and invest in your education and future.
Apply for a Scholarship
Learn About Our Scholarships
NHSBBQA Education Foundation
is the public-facing name of the BBQ Education Foundation,
a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization EIN - 41-2464833 dedicated to advancing
youth culinary education, live-fire learning, and career pathways
through the National High School BBQ Association® ecosystem.
Legal Notice
The NHSBBQA BBQ Education Foundation is a separate legal entity from the National High School BBQ Association® (NHSBBQA®).
Donations made on this page support the Foundation’s charitable mission and are not payments to NHSBBQA®.
