Gaining a culinary degree opens the door to many exciting career paths, all offering above-average paychecks and of course, the opportunity to do something that you love. However, paying for culinary school poses challenges to any hardworking individual simply looking to get ahead in the world.
Scholarships Including Sam Haskell Scholarship
A scholarship is a sum of money given to a student to help fund their education that does not require repayment. The money is given based on the student’s academic success, achievements, or other merits. Competition for scholarships is high, but with thousands of dollars in free college money going out every year, it’s worth taking a chance. The Sam Haskell scholarship, the James Beard Foundation Scholarship, and The National Association of College and University Food Services’ Clark E. DeHaven Scholarship are two popular options.
Many students must complete the FAFSA to apply for or receive scholarship funding. The application should be completed for each year of college.
Grants
Given to students based on financial need, grants do not require repayment. Dozens of different grant types provide funding that might not otherwise be available. The Federal Pell Grant is one of the most commonly awarded grants available to students today. State and federal institutions offer most grants, but some grants come from private businesses and individuals.
Finding grants sometimes prove stressful. Talk to the financial aid director at your culinary school for more information and a boost in the right direction. Great information concerning grants can also be found online but remember, not everything you see is legitimate. Be wary of anything that sounds too good to be true. Additionally, you should never pay to apply for a grant.
Student Loans
Student loans are issues both privately and publicly. Most students pay for the bulk of most college educations with help from a student loan, although many also look for grants and scholarships to help offset some of the fees. Many people attending culinary schools use loans, which must be repaid after graduation, to fund their education.
Complete the Free Application For Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for student loans.
Culinary Organizations
Many culinary organizations provide funding for students who may not be able to attend without financial assistance, for exemplary students, and other needs. The American Culinary Federation, Hotel and Restaurant Foundation, Women Chefs & Restauranters, and The American Institute of Food and Wine are a few culinary organizations offering student funding.
Work-Study Programs
When an employer offers a culinary student on-the-job training, it’s known as work-study income that helps reduce costs of education. Not every school offers a work-study program, but students should consider this option if it is available. Hands-on training combined with book education ensures you graduate as one of the top culinary artists in the game.
Home-Based Business Income
As you work your way through culinary school, you’ll learn new skills. Why not put those skills to work and earn extra cash that can greatly help pay for the cost of culinary school by starting your own home-based business? An at-home culinary business opens the door for great opportunities for any business-minded individual. Sell homemade goods, cater to special events, open a small dinner, or start a food delivery service.
You call the shots and the sky is truly the limit. It gives you a foot in the door to your new career and great income, plus a fun hobby you can complete on the side.
Family/Friends
If your family is in a position to help pay for college, then by all means go ahead and ask for their help. Most parents eagerly help their kids pay for college expenses with full confidence that it benefits their future. Friends may also be able to spot some cash to support your culinary dreams if you ask. Every dime adds up! However, if family and friends aren’t in a position to help, do not ask for help and put that type of pressure on their shoulders.
Attending culinary school opens the door to an exciting and fulfilling career that you’re sure to enjoy for a lifetime. Fund culinary school using one or more of the financial options above and worry less about finances and focus more on the great skills you’ll soon learn.
