IHLAEF Scholarship Program
The 2026-2027 School Year Scholarship Application Has Closed
Applicants will be notified of their application status by June 1, 2026
Each year, the IHLAEF awards academic scholarships to deserving college students pursuing hospitality management degrees at schools in Illinois and throughout the country. In 2026 - 2027, we are proud to offer scholarships to employees of IHLA member hotels and to the dependents/children of IHLA member hotels pursuing higher education in any field of study. Scholarships are made possible by the support of IHLA members and affiliates and range from $1,500 to $10,000 per academic year.
You are Eligible to Apply if you:
✔ Are attending an Illinois college or university in 2026–2027, or are an Illinois resident attending a college or university anywhere in the United States
✔ And meet one of the following:
- Pursuing a hospitality-related career
- A current IHLA member hotel employee (undergraduate or graduate student pursuing any degree)
- A dependent of a current IHLA member hotel employee (undergraduate student pursuing any degree)
For assistance or inquiries, please contact scholarships@illinoishotels.org.
IHLAEF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, and all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law.
