Yum! Scholars Program

Fueling Future Leaders in Franchising, Business & Beyond

The Yum! Scholars Program is more than a scholarship — it’s a launchpad for change makers. Funded by a $1M endowment from Yum! Brands and led by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville, this program supports students who lead with grit, integrity, and a drive to make a difference.

Open to all majors, Yum! Scholars receive:

  • Renewable scholarships
  • Leadership development
  • Mentorship & networking
  • Franchising education
  • Real-world industry exposure

Why Apply?

  • $1,000 per semester (up to $8,000 total)
  • Mentorship from franchise professionals
  • Site visits, workshops & guest speakers
  • Exclusive Yum! merch & graduation recognition
  • Join a tight-knit cohort of changemakers

Who We’re Looking For

Students who embody the core values of:

  • Drive – Resilience and ambition
  • Leadership – Integrity and initiative
  • Belonging – Welcoming and collaborative spirit
  • Impact – Committed to making a difference

You must also:

  • Be from KY or a reciprocity-eligible state
  • Be a degree seeking student at the University of Louisville (full-time or part-time)
  • Maintain a 2.75 GPA
  • Take at least one online franchise management course as a junior or senior

Franchise Course Options

Choose from four fully online, textbook-free electives:

  • MGMT 410 – Franchising Fundamentals & Legal Issues
  • MGMT 409 – Franchise HR & Leading Teams
  • MGMT 413 – Franchise Growth & Support
  • MKT 390 – Franchise Marketing

One course required. Complete more to earn the Undergraduate Certificate in Franchise Management.

Key Dates & Application

Sophomores & Juniors (2025–26 cohort):High School Seniors (2026–27 cohort):
Friday, August 23, 2025,
11:59 p.m. (ET)		Sunday, December 15, 2025,
11:59 p.m. (ET)

APPLY HERE

Application Checklist

  • FAFSA Student Aid Report (SAR)
  • 1 letter of recommendation
  • 5 essay responses
  • Completed application form

FAQ’s

What does the scholarship cover?

$1,000/semester (up to $8,000 total). Travel stipends and event funding is also available.

Who is eligible?

Full-time or part-time degree seeking UofL students from any major, meeting residency and GPA requirements, and committed to taking a franchising course.

How are scholars selected?

Blind application review based on alignment with program values, academics, financial need, and interview performance.

Is there an interview?

Yes — finalists will complete a short virtual interview with values-based and scenario questions.

What else do scholars receive?

  • Professional mentorship
  • Industry exposure through field trips and panels
  • Leadership and career development
  • Yum! Scholars swag + graduation recognition

Contact

Annie Nell Wadley,

Assistant Director, Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence