Burger King Scholarship: Application Guide, Deadlines & Eligibility

Welcome to all students and aspiring scholars! If you’re searching for financial aid to support your education, the Burger King Scholarship could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

This scholarship, offered through the Burger King Foundation, is dedicated to empowering students and employees of the Burger King® system to pursue higher education. The mission is simple but powerful—support educational success and help shape brighter futures through scholarship funding.

What is the Burger King Scholarship?

The Burger King Scholars Program was created in honor of James W. McLamore, co-founder of Burger King. His legacy of leadership, dedication, and commitment to education continues through this impactful program.

The program awards thousands of scholarships each year to help high school seniors, Burger King employees, and their family members access higher education opportunities. The funds can be used at accredited colleges, universities, or vocational-technical schools.

You can learn more directly from the Burger King Foundation

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Eligibility Criteria

For High School Seniors

• Must be residents of the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, or Guam
• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
• Plan to enroll full-time at an accredited post-secondary institution in the upcoming academic year
• Demonstrated community service or work experience is strongly encouraged

For Burger King Employees and Their Families

• Applicants must be employees of Burger King, or spouses/domestic partners or children of employees.
• Employees must meet a minimum employment duration requirement before the application deadline.
• Proof of employment and relationship may be required

Before applying, ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements outlined by the Burger King Scholars Program. Meeting these criteria is the first step to unlocking your scholarship opportunity.

Scholarship Awards and Amounts

The Burger King Scholarship offers a wide range of financial awards, with amounts typically ranging from $1,000 to $60,000. These scholarships help support students in pursuing their post-secondary education goals, whether at a college, university, or vocational-technical school.

There are three main categories of awards:

• James W. McLamore WHOPPER® Scholarship: This prestigious award grants up to $60,000 to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.
• General Track Scholarships: These are intended for graduating high school seniors who meet the basic eligibility criteria. Awards typically range from $1,000 to $5,000.
• Employee-Based Track Scholarships: Designed for Burger King employees, as well as their spouses, domestic partners, and children. Award amounts vary based on the application and eligibility.

Each year, thousands of scholarships are awarded, distributing millions of dollars to deserving students and employees across North America.

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Application Process

Application Period

The application portal typically opens around October 15 and closes by December 16 each year. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute issues and ensure all materials are submitted on time.

Steps to Apply

1. Visit the official application portal.
2. Create an account and complete the online application form.
3. Upload required documents, including transcripts, proof of community service or work experience, and employment verification (if applicable).
4. Review and submit your application before the deadline.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Double-check your eligibility before beginning the application process.
• Ensure all personal and academic information is accurate and complete.
• Highlight your leadership roles, community involvement, and part-time work experience.
• Consider asking for guidance from a teacher or mentor to review your application before submission.

Selection Criteria

Recipients of the Burger King Scholarship are selected through a holistic review process. Evaluators consider a variety of factors to ensure a fair and balanced assessment:

• Academic Achievements: A strong GPA is an important factor in the evaluation process.
• Work Experience: Employment history, especially for employee-track applicants, is reviewed carefully.
• Extracurricular Activities: Participation in school clubs, sports, or leadership roles can strengthen your application.
• Community Service: Demonstrated involvement in volunteering or service projects is highly valued.
• Financial Need: While not required, financial need may be taken into consideration for some awards.

This well-rounded approach ensures that scholarships are awarded to students who show not only academic excellence, but also character, determination, and commitment to their communities.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Staying on top of deadlines is crucial when applying for the Burger King Scholarship. Here’s a quick look at the key dates you should keep in mind:

• Application Opens: Typically around October 15.
• Application Closes: Usually by December 15 or 16.
• Notification Period: Selected recipients are notified by April of the following year.
• Disbursement of Funds: Scholarship funds are typically sent directly to the institution by early summer.

Applicants should plan ahead and gather all required documents early to avoid any last-minute issues. Missing the deadline could mean missing out on valuable financial aid!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply if I’m not a Burger King employee?

Yes! The Burger King Scholarship is open to all eligible high school seniors who meet the criteria.

Is the scholarship renewable?

No, the Burger King Scholarship is a one-time award. However, recipients are welcome to apply again the following year if they continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

How will I be notified if I’m selected?

Applicants will be notified by email in April. Be sure to provide an active email address during your application and check your inbox (including spam folders) regularly.

What can the scholarship funds be used for?

The scholarship may be used for qualified educational expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and required supplies at an accredited post-secondary institution.

Where can I find more information or get assistance?

For more details or help with your application, visit the Burger King Scholars Apply Portal or check the Scholarships.com listing. You can also reach out to the Burger King Foundation directly via the contact form on their official website.

Conclusion

The Burger King Scholarship is more than just a financial aid opportunity—it’s a gateway to a brighter academic future. Whether you’re a hardworking high school senior or part of the Burger King family, this program can make a real difference in funding your education.

We encourage every eligible student to apply confidently and early. Take full advantage of this generous scholarship and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams.

Explore your eligibility, prepare your documents, and don’t miss the deadlines. With the right preparation and mindset, your educational goals are within reach.