Yum! Scholars

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! Scholars merch and graduation recognition

Join a tight-knit cohort of changemakers

Eligibility & Application

Yum! Scholars Program

Eligibility:

This program is open to all majors and supports students who lead with grit, integrity and a drive to make a difference. 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

Amount of aid: $1,000 per semester (up to $8,000 total)
Additional details:

To apply you will need: FAFSA Student Aid Report (SAR), 1 letter of recommendation, 5 essay responses and a completed application form.

APPLY HERE

Franchise Course Options

Choose from four fully online, textbook-free electives. While only one course is required, students can optionally complete more to earn the Undergraduate Certificate in Franchise Management.

MGMT 410 - Franchising Fundamentals & Legal Issues

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MGMT 409 - Franchise HR & Leading Teams

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MGMT 413 - Franchise Growth & Support

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MKT 390 - Franchise Marketing

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Application Deadlines

Sophomores & Juniors (2025–26 cohort)

11:59 p.m. (ET)

High School Seniors (2026–27 cohort)

11:59 p.m. (ET)

Application Checklist

To apply you will need: FAFSA Student Aid Report (SAR), 1 letter of recommendation, 5 essay responses and a completed application form.

Scholarship FAQ's