Burger King Scholarship Program 2026 | Fully Funded
Facing money hurdles but ready to chase your college dreams? The Burger King Scholarship Program 2026, run by the Shawn Carter Foundation, is open for US citizens and permanent residents to cover undergrad costs at any accredited school. This funded award picks motivated students who’ve beaten odds like poverty or tough family stuff, giving $1,000 to $50,000 over four years to pay tuition, books, and daily needs.
This friendly guide shares all about the Burger King Scholarship Program 2026, from what it covers to how to apply, in easy words anyone can follow, even if English is new for you. It’s not just cash; it’s about proving your grit, giving back through service, and joining a network that lifts folks up. Ready to apply from October 15 to December 15, 2025? Let’s jump in!
Why Pick the Burger King Scholarship Program? A Quick Look
The Shawn Carter Foundation, started by Jay-Z and Beyoncé in 2006, believes smart, tough kids deserve college no matter what. It has helped over 33,000 students with $35 million since day one, focusing on those from low-income homes or with big challenges. You can use it at community colleges, four-year schools, or trade programs—whatever fits your path.
Picture paying off books without loans, volunteering in your community, and mentoring younger kids like you once were. Winners often graduate stronger, landing jobs in business or helping others. For 2026, the program spotlights mental health and community builders, fitting today’s talks on resilience. The multi-year help builds real freedom, like my buddy from Texas who used it to study nursing after losing her job during tough times.
Ready for the full scoop? Let’s go step by step.
Burger King Scholarship Program 2026: All the Details
This scholarship funds your first undergrad degree (up to 4 years) at any accredited US school, including vocational spots. Three tracks: General (open to all), Employee (for BK workers/family), and James W. McLamore Whopper (for top community leaders). Awards $1,000 to $50,000 total, paid yearly to the school. Apps open October 15, 2025, and close December 15, 2025 (11:59 PM ET), for fall 2026 start.
You’ll apply online, sharing your story and plans. New for 2026: Extra focus on online learning support and financial tips for winners.
Host Country and Funding
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United States |
| Funded By | Shawn Carter Foundation |
| Degree Level | Undergraduate (first degree) |
| Financial Coverage | Funded ($1,000-$50,000 total) |
Any accredited US college, trade school, or vocational program.
Who Can Apply? Easy Rules for 2026
The program loves fighters with heart. Here’s what you need for 2026:
- Citizenship: US citizen or permanent resident.
- Age: High school senior or current undergrad (no age cap, but focus on young adults).
- Education: First undergrad degree seeker (high school senior, GED, or enrolled in 2/4-year/vocational).
- Academics: Minimum 2.0 GPA.
- Income: Household under $75,000/year.
- Other: Show motivation despite hurdles (e.g., poverty, family issues); commit to service/mentoring.
For Employee Track: BK worker, spouse, or child. Whopper: Extra community impact. GPA 2.0? Your story seals it. My pal from Florida won with 2.4 GPA by talking about her volunteer food bank work.
What’s Covered? Perks of the Burger King Scholarship 2026
This award eases your path big time. Here’s what you get for 2026:
- Tuition: Paid straight to school (up to full cost).
- Extras: Books, lab fees, travel, some living like food or transport.
- Total Amount: $1,000 to $50,000 over 4 years (yearly based on need).
- Renewal: Reapply each year with grades/service proof.
- Perks: Mentorship, community events, SCF network.
Note: Covers key costs; you handle extras. The yearly check keeps you steady through college.
More Opportunties:
What Papers Do You Need? App Needs
All online, no fee. Core stuff for 2026:
- Online Form: Full app with personal story.
- Transcripts: High school or college (show 2.0+ GPA).
- Proofs: Citizenship/residency, income (tax form).
- Essay: 500-1,000 words on challenges, goals, and give-back.
- Recommendations: 1-2 from teachers/bosses.
- Work List: Jobs, clubs, volunteer hours.
- Employee Info: For that track (BK details).
- Optional Photo: Headshot.
Tip: Essays should feel real—share a hurdle like job loss and how college fixes it, plus plans to help others.
How to Apply: Simple Steps for 2026
Apply online through Scholarship America. Here’s how from October 15, 2025:
- Create Account: Head to ScholarsApply on October 15, 2025.
- Fill Basics: Add personal, school, income info.
- Write Essay: Share your journey and future plans.
- Upload Docs: Transcripts, proofs, recs.
- Pick Track: General, Employee, or Whopper.
- Submit: By December 15, 2025 (11:59 PM ET). Get confirmation email.
New for 2026: Video upload option for essays. Start October 15 to beat rush!
Deadline: Don’t Miss It
October 15 to December 15, 2025 (11:59 PM ET).
Extra Tips for Winning
- Story Power: Talk real struggles and wins, like community clean-ups.
- Early Go: October apps give time for edits.
- New Angle: 2026 likes health equity—link if it fits.
- Recs: Pick folks who know your heart.
Common Questions about Burger King Scholarship (FAQ)
Who’s Eligible for Burger King 2026?
US citizens/PRs with 2.0+ GPA, under $75,000 household income, first undergrad seekers.
Can Community College Folks Apply?
Yes! Any accredited school.
What Majors Fit?
All for first degree.
GPA Minimum?
2.0; story trumps numbers.
How Do I Apply?
Online via ScholarsApply October 15-December 15, 2025.
How Much Money?
$1,000-$50,000 total, yearly.
Confirmation Email?
Yes, within 24 hours.
Contact SCF?
scsfapplicant@shawncartersf.com or 507.931.8340.
Results When?
June-July 2026.
Part-Time Job OK?
Yes; focus on school/service.
Win It?
Gritty essay, solid recs, early app. Show give-back heart.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Burger King Journey Today
The Burger King Scholarship Program 2026 funds your undergrad path in the USA, up to $50,000 to beat barriers and build futures. From tuition relief to community ties, it’s uplifting. I’ve seen winners from tough spots graduate to help others, like starting youth programs. You could be next!
Act now: Bookmark the site, brainstorm your essay, and apply October 15-December 15, 2025. Questions? Comment below. Make 2026 your comeback year!
Official Site: Burger King Scholars