KFC Foundation Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Kentucky Fried Chicken

Here’s a clearer, teacher-friendly version that keeps all the important details while organizing the information so it’s easy to follow. Overview You can apply for scholarships up to $20,000 to attend a two-year or four-year college, an accredited trade school, or graduate school for the 2025–2026 academic year. Next application window: January 5 – February 9, 2026. Who this is for - KFC employees in the U.S. who participate in the KFC Foundation’s Annual Donation Program and are in good standing. - High school graduates, those who have earned a high school equivalency (GED), or students who will graduate high school in 2026. - Applicants who will be enrolled in an accredited trade school, college, or graduate program for the 2025–2026 academic year. - GPA requirements: - Minimum 2.5 GPA for the $5,000 scholarship. - Minimum 3.5 GPA for the $10,000 or $20,000 scholarships. How the application process works (step by step) 1. Submit your application - Applications are reviewed for completeness and minimum eligibility. - If you apply for the $10,000 or $20,000 award, you must provide financial information and complete an extra essay. 2. Essays are scored by a panel - A panel of judges scores the essays, and recipients are chosen based on those scores. 3. You’ll receive an email with the result - All applicants will be notified by email whether they receive a scholarship. 4. Winners complete an acceptance form - Scholarship winners must complete the scholarship acceptance form by the deadline. If the form isn’t completed on time, the award will be forfeited and given to the next eligible applicant. A quick reminder: this is a competitive program — not every employee who applies will receive a scholarship. Additional opportunities - The Janet L. Kuhn Scholarship - One KFC Foundation Scholarship recipient each year may have their award doubled. - To be considered you must complete an additional essay during the application. - Note: recipients of the $10,000 or $20,000 scholarships are not eligible for the Janet L. Kuhn Scholarship. - GED Graduate Scholarship Guarantee - If you earn your GED through the KFC Foundation, apply for a scholarship, follow all instructions, and meet the minimum eligibility requirements, you will receive a $5,000 scholarship. Quick teacher tip: start early—gather transcripts, financial documents (if needed), and draft your essays ahead of the application window so your submission is complete and polished.