Illinois Restaurant Association Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Illinois Restaurant Association
Introduction
Since its founding, the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (IRAEF) has provided more than $3.6 million in support to Illinois students pursuing post‑secondary degrees in culinary arts and hospitality management.
2025–2026 IRAEF Scholarship Application
The application for the 2025–2026 IRAEF Scholarship will be available beginning January 1, 2026.
Who is eligible
- Be a permanent resident of Illinois.
- Have been accepted to, or intend to apply to, an accredited culinary or hospitality program at a college, university, or vocational school.
- Be enrolled as either full‑time or substantial part‑time, taking a minimum of 9 credit hours each term.
- Major, or plan to major, in culinary arts, restaurant management, foodservice, or a related field.
- Be under 30 years of age at the time of application.
Award disbursement
Scholarship awards are issued in June/July and are sent directly to the recipient’s institution financial aid office for processing and distribution to the student.