The Burger King Scholars program is a prestigious scholarship opportunity offered to graduating high school seniors who excel both academically and within their communities. With awards ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, this program provides crucial financial assistance for college to thousands of students each year.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explain everything you need to know about the Burger King Scholars scholarship, including eligibility requirements, how to apply, key dates, selection criteria, tips for creating a strong application, and FAQs.
Overview of the Burger King Scholars Program
The Burger King Scholars program was launched in 2000 by the BURGER KING® McLamore Foundation to honor the company’s co-founder James W. McLamore. It offers scholarships to help offset the costs of a college education for deserving students across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
Some quick facts about the Burger King Scholars program:
- Awards $1,000 to $50,000 in scholarships per student
- Distributes over $3.4 million in scholarships annually
- Has awarded over $35 million to more than 33,000 students since inception
- Open to graduating high school seniors in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico
- Selection is based on GPA, work experience, extracurriculars, and community service
- Both merit-based and financial need-based awards
- Can be used at any accredited two- or four-year college or university
This scholarship recognizes students who have gone above and beyond in their academics, leadership, community involvement, and employment experience. For thousands of recipients, this scholarship has provided the financial boost they needed to afford college and unlock their potential.
Eligibility Requirements
Students wishing to apply for the Burger King Scholars program must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Current High School Senior
Applicants must be current high school seniors who will graduate during the scholarship year. The program is not open to freshman, sophomores, juniors, or students who have already graduated.
Attending College in Upcoming Academic Year
Selected scholars must enroll in an accredited two- or four-year college or university within the same calendar year they graduate high school. Applicants may apply regardless of their intended major or career path.
Minimum GPA of 2.5
Applicants must have earned a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (or local equivalent) to be eligible.
U.S., Canadian, or Puerto Rican Resident
Students must reside in and attend high school in the United States, Canada, or Puerto Rico to qualify. International students are not eligible.
Cannot Be a Child or Dependent of Employees
Children, dependents, or relatives of employees of Restaurant Brands International and its subsidiaries are not eligible. All other graduating seniors may apply.
Meeting these core requirements is essential for students hoping to secure this prestigious scholarship opportunity to help fund their college education.
How to Apply
Students interested in the Burger King Scholars program must submit a complete online application by the deadline. Here are the steps:
Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, confirm you meet all eligibility criteria in terms of residency, GPA, graduation timeline, and relationship to Restaurant Brands International.
Gather Required Documents
You will need to have electronic copies of your high school transcripts, FAFSA Student Aid Report, SAT/ACT scores, resume, and more.
Complete Online Application
Go to bk-scholars.com to access the online application form. You will need to create an account, fill out biographical sections, and upload required documents.
Compose Essays
The application requires you to write short-answer responses and two essays describing your goals, strengths, and qualifications for the scholarship.
Submit Recommendations
Ask two teachers, counselors, employers, or mentors who know you well to submit online recommendations highlighting your abilities.
Complete By Deadline
The online application, essays, recommendations, and all required documents must be submitted by the March deadline to be considered.
Take time to submit a thoughtful, complete application showcasing all your stellar qualifications. Put your best foot forward to compete for this prestigious scholarship!
Application Timeline
Here are the key dates and deadlines to know for the Burger King Scholars program:
- October 15 – Application period opens
- March 15 – Final deadline to submit all application materials
- April-May – Regional scholarship winners selected
- May – National finalists notified for interviews
- June – National scholarship winners selected
- August – Scholarship funds dispersed for fall semester
All components of the application must be completed online by 11:59pm EST on March 15 to receive consideration. Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted.
Selection Criteria
The Burger King Scholars program receives thousands of applicants every year. A selection committee evaluates eligible applicants based on these criteria:
Academic Record
Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA but stronger candidates will have an exceptional academic transcript with a challenging course load. SAT/ACT scores are also considered.
Work Experience
Meaningful part-time and summer employment during high school is preferred, demonstrating drive and responsibility. Experience in the restaurant/hospitality industry is a plus but not required.
Extracurricular Activities
Competitive applicants are actively involved in diverse extracurriculars like student government, sports teams, performing arts, and school clubs. Leadership experience is valued.
Community Service
Extensive volunteering, mentorship, or other community service displays commitment to helping others. This reflects strongly on an applicant’s character.
Financial Need
While some awards are merit-based only, other scholarships do factor in financial need. Applicants must complete the FAFSA.
Essays and Interview
The application essays and finalist interviews allow applicants to explain their qualifications and hopes for using the scholarship to further their college and career goals.
With sound academics, well-rounded extracurricular involvement, strong work history, and articulated goals, applicants can demonstrate they have what it takes to be a Burger King Scholar.
Tips for Applying
Follow these tips to create the most compelling application possible for the Burger King Scholars program:
Start Early
Begin preparing your application materials months in advance to give yourself plenty of time. Rushing leads to mistakes.
Choose Recommenders Strategically
Select teachers, mentors, or employers who know you well and can emphasize your strengths in their letters. Provide them reminding.
Ace the Essays
Brainstorm interesting ideas for your short-answer responses and essays. Show, don’t tell! Back up claims about your talents with concrete examples.
Highlight Relevant Experience
Tailor your resume, activities list, and essays to highlight experience and skills relevant to the scholarship’s criteria. Draw clear connections.
Mind Deadlines
Note all required deadlines on your calendar including for letters of recommendation. Submit your complete application early!
With attention to detail, planning, and strong materials, you can submit a Burger King Scholars application that makes you stand out from the crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are responses to some common questions students have about the Burger King Scholars program:
Who is eligible to apply?
Graduating high school seniors from the U.S, Canada, or Puerto Rico with a minimum 2.5 GPA may apply. Employees’ relatives are ineligible.
What majors or programs are eligible?
Any accredited two-year or four-year college program is eligible, regardless of major or career path. Vocational/technical programs are also accepted.
How many scholarships are awarded?
Over 6,000 scholarships worth over $3.4 million total are awarded annually. Both regional and national scholarships are offered.
What is the maximum scholarship amount?
The top national scholarships provide up to $50,000 over four years of college at $12,500 per year. Most regional awards range from $1,000 to $5,000.
What expenses can the scholarship cover?
Funds may be used for any component of the student’s cost of attendance including tuition, room and board, books, supplies, fees, and transportation.
Is this scholarship renewable?
The top national scholarships are renewable for up to four years. Regional scholarships are generally one-time awards. Students must reapply each year.
When are funds dispersed?
Scholarship monies are sent by the foundation directly to recipients’ colleges in early August before the fall semester. Funds never go directly to the students.
How are recipients selected?
A national selection committee reviews applications holistically based on academics, activities, work experience, service, essays, need, and interview (for finalists).
When is the application deadline?
All components of the online application must be submitted by March 15 by 11:59pm EST. Letters of recommendation are also due by this date.
We hope these tips and FAQs help you submit a stellar Burger King Scholars application! This prestigious program can make college affordable so you can fully invest in building a bright future. Focus on showing your drive, abilities, and community commitment to earn this life-changing scholarship.